We're excited to announce the arrival of Mark Gallagher, a beloved sommelier and mixologist from Chicago, as our esteemed judge for the 2024 Bartender Spirits Awards.

Mark currently works as the Wine Ambassador at Vignobles Sullivan, captivating all with his friendly approach, ensuring top-notch wine experiences for nearly two years in the heart of Chicago. His expertise shines as he introduces patrons to exquisite wines from Chateau Gaby, Chateau Moya, Chateau Duparc, and Chateau Auguste.

Before his wine journey, Mark showcased his talents as a "Sommelier" and "Mixologist" at Feast & Imbibe. With over three years of experience, he not only ensured customers had a great time but also fostered new friendships. His commitment to excellent service and delicious treats is truly commendable. In 2020, Mark took charge as the "Head Sommelier" at The Winevestigators, where he expanded his expertise into digital marketing, making wine exploration accessible to a broader audience.

Mark's journey began modestly as a "Server" at Rural Society in 2015, gradually climbing the culinary ladder through various roles. Each position taught him valuable lessons about serving customers, leading teams, and maintaining high standards. From serving tables to becoming a Wine Ambassador, Mark's story reflects his dedication to making people happy, his extensive knowledge of good food and drinks, and his natural leadership in the kitchen.

Stepping into the 2024 Bartender Spirits Awards, Mark's long-learned journey stands as evidence that dedication and hard work can pave the way for a delightful and prosperous career. The Bartender Spirits Awards is thrilled to welcome him as a judge for the 2024 edition, and we look forward to the valuable insights he'll bring to the table.

Along with Mike, the 2024 judging panel includes some top names in the US bar industry and they are:

Renato M. Tonelli - 2023 US Bartender of the Year and Founder at Sustainable Bartender

Charles Joly - World Class Global Bartending Winner and Official Mixologist of the Emmy's and Oscars.

Julieta Campos - Beverage and Bar Operations Director at The Fifty/50 Group, Chicago.

Damian Langarica - Top 100 World Class 2023, Top 50 World Class 2022, Bartender at Next of Kin, Philadelphia.

Katie Renshaw - 2019 US World Class Bartender of the Year.

Trudy Thomas - Corporate Director of Beverage at Southworth Development, Spirits Educator and Mixologist, Nashville.

Abraham Vucekovich - Beverage Director, Meadowlark Hospitality, Chicago, Meadowlark Hospitality.

Makenzie Helem - Top 30 Bartenders in the US for USBG World Class 2023 and Bartender at Spilt Milk, Chicago.

Guillermo Bravo - Beverage Director at Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, Chicago.

Danny Shapiro - Founding Partner in Scofflaw Group, Chicago.

Chris Barna - Bar Manager at Proof, 2022 Top 50 US World Class 2023 Top 30 US World Class, Charleston.

Elliott Ernst - Country's Top 100 World Class Bartenders and Mixologist, Rockford and more.

The judging panel consists of some of the most renowned names in the U.S. bar industry, all of them with extensive expertise within the on-premise industry. The result will be a relevant and practical source of reference for bartenders, bar managers, bar owners, and other industry professionals when making purchasing decisions for their establishments.

If you are a spirits brand anywhere in the world and are looking to grow into the USA’s on-premise channels, Bartender Spirits Awards is the competition that you should enter. Brands are rated by the best in class and real trade buyers with the judging criteria that the bar managers and bartenders use when they buy for their bars.

Brands are encouraged to enter before the early bird deadline of January 31, 2024.

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