Local bartending finalists advance to New Orleans conference
– The Alchemists’ Garden announced the conclusion of The Cocktail Challenge, a bartending competition featuring local mixologists, with the final round held Jan. 26 and sponsored by Sazerac.
During the event, finalists created original cocktails live before a panel of judges. Attendees could purchase a guest tasting experience to sample the cocktails as they were prepared or attend as spectators.
Walker Marsh won The Cocktail Challenge. The Alchemists’ Garden will send all three finalists to Tales of the Cocktail in New Orleans from July 19–24. The conference takes place in the French Quarter at the Ritz-Carlton and includes seminars, tastings, interactive events, and networking opportunities focused on the cocktail industry.
The finalists included Keeli Cornelison, a bartender at the Paso Robles restaurant and bar, and Scott Romaine, a cocktail enthusiast.
“As a team, we care deeply about creating opportunities that bring people together and give talented bartenders a platform to shine,” said co-owner Tony Bennett. “The Cocktail Challenge really captures the spirit of The Alchemists’ Garden. It is about creativity, learning from one another, and celebrating the craft. Seeing the finalists step up and share their passion live was something special for all of us.”
The business plans to expand and restructure The Cocktail Challenge to provide additional opportunities for bartenders to compete and for enthusiasts to participate.
The Alchemists’ Garden is a restaurant and bar in Paso Robles created by five local hospitality professionals. The business offers cocktails and food in a downtown setting.
