Maxwell Freise of Wildseed in San Francisco was named “Mixologist of the Year” for his “Tripping to Manhattan,” a savory twist on the traditional Manhattan. Pictured to the right of Freise is Raven Cervantez.
Casa Orinda’s Cynthia Songco won the “Audience Favorite” for her bourbon-based “Snow Way It’s Fall Already” which pays homage to the restaurant’s founder, Jack Snow. Songco was a returning champion, having won the top Mixologist prize in 2022.
Cheerful attendees lifted a glass to celebrate the luscious libations and the spirited good times had by all at the event.
Third place winner, “Super Sun” from bartender Bells Hellman at the Bardo Lounge in Oakland, combined tequila and citrus flavors to evoke a summertime feel.
Second place winner, Giuseppe Alagna from Benvenuti in Walnut Creek, shakes it up with his “Sympathy for Nature,” a vodka concoction featuring basil and sugar snap peas.
Professional and amateur bartenders alike shook, stirred and swirled their unique creations in the 10th Annual “Art of Mixology” competition for the coveted title of 2023’s “Mixologist of the Year.” Adventurous imbibers tasted 15 hand-crafted cocktails at the Oct. 14 fundraiser in Theatre Square. The event was attended by 275 people and netted $15,000 to benefit the Lamorinda Arts Council.
