Get updates
Bartender Spirits Awards
A U.S. competition judged by bartenders, managers and buyers to spotlight spirits suited for on‑premise venues.
Themes
Wine & Spirits
On‑Premise Buying
Cocktail Innovation
Packaging & Value
Sommelier Reviews
Audience
Spirits producers
On‑premise buyers
Bartenders
Bar managers
Distributor/importers
Submission info not available
We’re missing the dates — check back later or contact support.
Bartender Spirits Awards offers a pragmatic and impartial spirits competition tailored for the on‑premise industry, judged exclusively by bartenders and buyers.
- Organiser & Credibility: Hosted by Beverage Trade Network, the evaluation is carried out by respected U.S. bartenders, bar directors and on‑site buyers.
- Judging Process & Criteria: Blind tasting across taste, mixability, finish, packaging and value; results determine medal levels—Double Gold, Gold, Silver, Bronze.
- Medal Categories & Honors: Awards include distinctions like Spirit of the Year, Distillery of the Year, Best Value, Best Package, and varietal‑specific titles across gin, vodka, tequila, whisky, rum, brandy and others.
- Edition & Venue: 7th annual edition held in Chicago on May 18, 2025 at the South San Francisco Conference Center.
- Visibility & Distribution: Winners featured in the TOP 100 Spirits Guide circulated widely among U.S. bars and featured on Wine‑Searcher, regional drinks‑guide publications, and Beverage Trade Network platforms.
- Participant Benefits: Awardees receive a certificate, winner logos, stickers, and a marketing toolkit with online promotional support throughout the year.
- Entry & Logistics: Brands enter via online account, pay fees (USD via Stripe or invoice), ship samples to reach the judges in time; late arrivals are excluded.
- Audience & Reach: Targets spirits brands, on‑premise buyers, sommeliers, beverage directors and bar operators seeking purchase‑focused recognition.
Overall, Bartender Spirits Awards provides a rigorous, bartender‑led evaluation for spirits brands aimed at U.S. hospitality channels, with industry-specific recognition and valuable exposure.