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Bartender Spirits Awards

Bartender Spirits Awards
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Carlos Enrique Cuarta

Bartender and Mixologist at High Proof Chicago

Cristián “El Cuarta” Cuarta is a celebrated bartender and spirits educator recognized for his creativity, technical precision, and passion for storytelling through cocktails. Over more than a decade in hospitality, Cristián has helped shape Latin America’s modern cocktail movement—developing menus, training teams, and collaborating with top spirits brands on innovative beverage programs.

As a judge at the Bartender Spirits Awards, Cristián brings firsthand insight into what today’s bartenders, beverage directors, and consumers look for in premium spirits. His evaluations consider both taste and real-world application, emphasizing how a spirit performs in cocktails, its mixability, and its appeal to the on-trade community.

For entrants, Cristián’s experience provides valuable perspective on how brands can better position their products for success behind the bar. His judging helps highlight spirits that combine craftsmanship, balance, and versatility—key factors in gaining recognition from the industry’s top bartenders.

Meet our Judges

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

Charles Steadman

Director of Food & Beverage Experience and Strategic Partnerships at Virgin Voyages

Laura Silverman

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

David Leon jr

Award Winning Bartender, Spirits Specialist & Founder of Plátano