The Bartender Spirits Awards, based in Chicago, is proud to announce that David Samuel, Regional Vice President of Operations at Hyatt Hotels Corporation, will join its distinguished judging panel for the 2026 competition.

With extensive experience in hospitality leadership, beverage program development, and operational excellence, David Samuel brings a unique, enterprise-level perspective to the judging panel. At Hyatt Hotels Corporation, he oversees multiple properties across the U.S., ensuring that food and beverage programs meet the company’s exacting standards for quality, innovation, and guest satisfaction. His ability to balance creativity with consistency makes him a respected leader within the hospitality and spirits communities.

David’s approach combines a deep appreciation for craftsmanship with a pragmatic understanding of what drives business results in high-volume, brand-driven environments. His perspective is particularly valuable to spirits producers aiming to secure placement within luxury hotels, restaurant groups, and bar programs that cater to discerning guests.

About Hyatt Hotels Corporation

Hyatt Hotels Corporation is a leading global hospitality company headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, renowned for its world-class portfolio that includes more than 1,300 hotels, all-inclusive resorts, and wellness properties across 70+ countries. Its brands span multiple segments — from the luxury Park Hyatt, Andaz, and Thompson Hotels, to lifestyle brands such as Hyatt Centric, Joie de Vivre, and Hyatt Place.

Hyatt is known for its people-first culture and forward-thinking food & beverage philosophy, often serving as a platform for introducing guests to cutting-edge mixology, local spirits, and sustainability-driven beverage programs. This focus on excellence and innovation aligns perfectly with the mission of the Bartender Spirits Awards.

Why This Matters for Spirits Brands

Having a hospitality executive like David Samuel on the judging panel ensures that each entry is evaluated not only for taste and technical merit but also for its potential to succeed in hotel and group-managed beverage programs. His expertise provides entrants with real-world feedback about how spirits perform in cocktail applications, align with brand standards, and meet the expectations of both bartenders and global travelers.

For spirits brands looking to expand their presence in the hotel sector, David’s insight bridges the gap between on-trade creativity and corporate operational strategy — offering a rare perspective that blends business acumen with beverage artistry.

Meet the Round 1 Judging Panel (2026)

David joins an impressive roster of respected professionals for Round 1 of judging, including:

Monique Huston — Vice President of Spirits Portfolio, Winebow Fine Wine + Spirits

Anna Thorn — Director of Bar & Spirits, Hogsalt, Chicago

Martin Duffy — Whisky Educator & Former Master of Whisky for Diageo’s portfolio

Jason Huffman — Director of Beverage Development, Taste & Theory

Ari Klafter — Head Distiller, Thornton Distilling Company

Jennifer Knott — Director of Operations, Levy at Forte / Levy Cultural Attractions

Meghan Konecny — Owner, Overproof Productions

Raul Rizo — Sommelier & F&B Professional

David Samuel — Regional Vice President of Operations, Hyatt Hotels Corporation

Lisa Selman CSS — Director of Beverage, The Alchemy Room, Breakthru Beverage

Danny Shapiro — Founding Partner, Scofflaw Group, Chicago

To view the full list of Round 1 judges and their profiles, please visit the “Judges 2026” section on the official site.

Enter Before October 31 — Super Early Bird Deadline

The Bartender Spirits Awards 2026 invites domestic and international spirits brands to enter and have their products evaluated by America’s most influential bartenders, mixologists, and beverage directors.

Entries received by the October 31 Super Early Bird deadline enjoy discounted pricing and early inclusion in the Awards’ marketing campaign, maximizing visibility ahead of the competition season.

About the Bartender Spirits Awards

Based in Chicago and organized by Beverage Trade Network, the Bartender Spirits Awards celebrate and promote spirits that bartenders choose to stock and pour. Judged by leading on-premise professionals, the competition emphasizes taste, packaging, and value — the criteria that drive real-world purchase and pour decisions across bars, restaurants, and hotels.

Also Read:
Bartender Spirits Awards Welcomes Monique Huston to Its 2026 Judging Panel
All You Need To Know Before Setting Foot In The U.S. Spirits Market
Meet the Expert: Zachary Faden Joins the Bartender Spirits Awards 2026