September 7, 2018, Des Moines, IA– Seven top mixologists from across Iowa were invited to compete at the Iowa Restaurant Association’s State Mixology Championships held September 6th at Vivian’s Diner & Drinks in Des Moines. Cedar Falls Mixologist Ingrid Folker from Whiskey Road was named this year’s champion.
Each competitor prepared three distinct drinks for a panel of professional judges. The first was a variation of a classic cocktail, the second was a freestyle cocktail, which featured a Sazerac Spirit. The third was a creation on the fly with a spirit assigned by the judges. Competitors were rated on the taste, appearance, garnish, creativity and presentation. Later in the evening, the drink’s samples were prepared for the public who voted in a People’s Choice Competition.
Folker’s tasty take on the cocktails, like her Total Saz cocktail with a twist of lemon, gave her the edge over her competitors as she poured her way to the winner’s circle.
Runner-up Nick Throckmorton from Hello Marjorie in Des Moines also impressed judges with his skills and personality. Shane Simmons from Splash in Des Moines, won the People’s Choice Award with his signature cocktail, Big Easy Layover.
“The talent, innovation and flavor profiles presented by Iowa’s mixology contenders impressed the judges and public,” said Director of Marketing and Association Development for the IRA, Stacy Kluesner. “It is a great season to go out and explore Iowa’s mixology scene.”
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Iowa Restaurant Association
The Iowa Restaurant Association is an advocacy organization supporting Iowa’s restaurant and bar industry with educational and promotional programs across the state.
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