The 2025 Bartender Spirits Awards, a prestigious competition that recognizes excellence in the spirits industry, is now open for submissions. This annual event, held in Chicago, provides a platform for spirits brands to gain recognition and credibility in the competitive world of bars and restaurants.

What Sets the Bartender Spirits Awards Apart?

The Bartender Spirits Awards is unique in its approach, as it is judged exclusively by bartenders, bar managers, and on-premise buyers. These industry professionals bring their expertise and practical experience to evaluate each spirit on its merits, ensuring that the winners are those who truly excel in a real-world bar environment.

Categories and Judging Criteria

Spirits can be entered in a variety of categories, including:

Vodka

Gin

Rum

Tequila

Whiskey

Brandy

Liqueurs

Each spirit is judged on the following criteria:

1. Quality: The overall taste, aroma, and mouthfeel.

2. Value: The price point in relation to quality.

3. Packaging: The visual appeal and practicality of the bottle design.

4. On-Premise Suitability: How well the spirit performs in a cocktail and its versatility behind the bar.

Benefits of Participation

- Winning a Bartender Spirits Award provides numerous benefits for spirits brands, including:

- Industry Recognition: Winners receive significant exposure within the bartender and mixology community.

- Marketing Advantage: Award-winning spirits can leverage their accolades in marketing campaigns to boost sales and brand credibility.

- Consumer Trust: Awards from industry professionals enhance consumer confidence and drive purchasing decisions.

How to Submit

The submission process is straightforward. Spirits brands can enter their products online through the Bartender Spirits Awards website. The entry form requires details about the spirit, including its category, production process, and unique selling points. Samples must be shipped to the designated judging location for evaluation.

Judges

The Bartender Spirits Awards is a prestigious competition that brings together some of the most esteemed and influential figures in the bar and spirits industry. The panel of judges is composed of top bartenders, mixologists, and industry experts who bring their extensive knowledge and experience to evaluate and celebrate the best spirits from around the world.

KEY DATES:

Super Early Bird Ends - October 31, 2024
Registration Closes - April 18, 2025
Warehouse Closes - April 25, 2025
Judging Day - May 18, 2025
Winners Announced - June 10, 2025

FEE SCHEDULE (PER SPIRITS ENTRY)

Super Early Bird Pricing - $175 per spirit (now to October 31, 2024)
Early Bird Pricing - $200 per spirit (November 1, 2024, to January 31, 2025)
Regular Pricing - $250 per spirit (February 1, 2025, to April 18, 2025)
*Instructions if shipping from outside the U.S

Join the Elite

The Bartender Spirits Awards offer a unique opportunity for spirits brands to be evaluated by the very professionals who will be recommending and serving their products to consumers. Winning an award not only signifies excellence but also opens doors to new market opportunities and increased brand visibility.

Don't miss your chance to be part of this esteemed competition. Submit your spirits today and join the ranks of the industry's best at the 2025 Bartender Spirits Awards.