Celebrating Craftsmanship in the Bartending Community
In a remarkable showcase of talent and creativity, J. Rieger & Co., a Kansas City distillery with a rich pre-Prohibition history, has announced the five regional winners of their inaugural Road to Jerez Cocktail Competition. This nationwide event not only highlights the connection between sherry and American whiskey but also honors the artistry of bartenders across the country. As these finalists gear up for the grand finale in New York City on June 8th during Bar Convent, we delve into the stories behind their winning cocktails and the impact of this competition on the bartending community.
Unveiling the Regional Champions
The Road to Jerez competition invited bartenders to create unique cocktails using Rieger Kansas City Whiskey, a spirit remarkable for its finish of Oloroso sherry. The five regional winners are:
- KANSAS CITY WINNER: Zachary Snyder (Aspen, CO | Hooch Aspen) — A Dame to Kill For
- ORLANDO WINNER: Parker Jochum (Orlando, FL | The Edison at Disney Springs) — Heartland Solera
- D.C. WINNER: Delsin Richardson (Baltimore, MD | Dutch Courage & Traveling Libations) — Venecia’s Tribute
- CHICAGO WINNER: AJ Barbosa (Chicago, IL | Bisous Chicago) — The Southwest Chief
- LOS ANGELES WINNER: Aleka K. Ross (San Francisco, CA | Kona’s Street Market) — Sherry Beneath My Wings
Kansas City Winner: Zachary Snyder’s Creative Approach
Starting in Kansas City, Zachary Snyder’s cocktail, A Dame to Kill For, exemplifies a refined mountain-town approach. His submission stood out for its balance and structure, showcasing the depth of Kansas City Whiskey. With experience at notable Kansas City bars, Snyder’s creativity reflects the essence of a community that values craftsmanship.
Orlando Winner: Parker Jochum’s Innovative Layers
In sunny Florida, Parker Jochum took home the title with Heartland Solera. His cocktail layers Kansas City Whiskey with sherry and fermentation to mirror the solera system’s evolving nature. Jochum’s technical precision married with a clear concept demonstrates the blend of tradition and innovation.
D.C. Winner: Delsin Richardson’s Savory Tribute
In the nation’s capital, Delsin Richardson won with Venecia’s Tribute. This intricate cocktail, built on whiskey, vermouth, and spice, pays homage to Spanish influences. The addition of a Manchego and honey-stuffed olive showcases Richardson’s ability to meld cultures through flavors.
Chicago Winner: AJ Barbosa’s Regional Flair
AJ Barbosa’s The Southwest Chief reflects his Kansas City roots while embracing Chicago’s vibrant cocktail scene. This riff on the classic Revolver incorporates regional notes and creative flair, even inviting judges to don conductor hats, adding a fun element to the competition.
Los Angeles Winner: Aleka K. Ross’s Thoughtful Construction
Aleka K. Ross captured attention with Sherry Beneath My Wings, a cocktail that deconstructs the grape across various elements, finished with force-carbonation. Her detail-driven approach highlights the versatility of Kansas City Whiskey while showcasing her skills as a leading bartender.
The Significance of the Road to Jerez Competition
Ryan Maybee, Co-Founder of J. Rieger & Co., expressed his admiration for the competing bartenders, stating, “It takes extraordinary skill to stand out in this field. At Rieger, we celebrate the independence, creativity, and hospitality that define the American bartending spirit.” This competition not only provides a platform for talented bartenders but also fosters community within the industry.
The Road to Jerez aims to connect bartenders with the rich heritage of sherry while promoting innovative cocktail techniques. The grand finale promises to be an exciting event where the winner will earn a trip to Jerez, Spain, further expanding their culinary horizons.
Join the Celebration and Share Your Thoughts
As the bartending community eagerly anticipates the grand final, we encourage you to celebrate these remarkable talents and their contributions to the craft. Which cocktail creation excites you the most? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Stay tuned for updates on the competition and explore more about creative cocktails and industry trends in our previous articles.
Want to Master the Art of Bartending?
If you’re a hospitality professional seeking to elevate your bartending skills or enhance your cocktail menu, consider exploring our resources at Food & Beverage Magazine. With expert insights and actionable strategies, we’re here to help you succeed.
For additional information about J. Rieger & Co. and their products, visit J. Rieger & Co..
Written by Michael Politz, Author of Guide to Restaurant Success: The Proven Process for Starting Any Restaurant Business From Scratch to Success, Founder of Food & Beverage Magazine, the leading online magazine and resource in the industry. Designer of the Bluetooth logo and recognized in Entrepreneur Magazine’s “Top 40 Under 40” for founding American Wholesale Floral, Politz is also the Co-founder of the Proof Awards and the CPG Awards and a partner in numerous consumer brands across the food and beverage sector.
