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Bartender Spirits Awards

Bartender Spirits Awards
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Katherine Iwinski

Bar Manager at Take Flight Spirits

Kate, a southpaw with a passion for painting and drawing, may appear to be a strange choice for the bartending profession. However, it was her love of the culinary arts that sparked her interest. Kate's debut into mixology was inspired by the satisfaction she experienced in creating a dish and seeing how it made people happy.

For her, bartending provided a similar canvas for experimentation as well as a platform to connect with people on a more personal level.

With years of experience, Kate understands the value of diversity and quality when selecting spirits for her bar. It is not just about stocking the shelves; it is about discovering secret gems that can improve any drinking experience, whether drank plain or mixed into a tasty cocktail.

Meet our Judges

Alexis Ortega

2026 World Class US Bartender of the Year in the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation

Danny Shapiro

Founding Partner and Beverage Director at Scofflaw Group, Chicago

Derek Brown

Founder, Drink Company & Mindful Drinking Fest | Beverage Consulting and Training | Award-Winning Author | Mindful Drinking Educator

Laura Silverman

Non-Alc Beverage Advisor & Community Connector | The Nexus of Non-Alc at Zero Proof Nation

Krys Irizarry

Beverage Director and Award-Winning Bartender and Spirits Expert