The Best Spirits Competition was born out of a simple but powerful idea:
Exceptional spirits deserve a platform to be seen, tasted, and celebrated.
In a crowded and rapidly growing industry, too many incredible small-batch distilleries, boutique producers, and independent brands were being overlooked — not because they lacked quality, but because they lacked access. We wanted to change that.
We created this competition to:
Level the Playing Field
Not every brand has a multimillion-dollar marketing budget. The Best Spirits Competition gives both emerging and established producers a fair shot at recognition based on one thing only: what’s in the bottle. Whether you’re a legacy label or a family-run startup, your spirits are judged on craftsmanship, character, and taste — not popularity or size.
Celebrate Craft and Creativity
We believe spirit-making is an art form. From distillation to aging, infusion to innovation — every bottle has a story. Our competition is designed to spotlight that passion, talent, and relentless pursuit of excellence that goes into every pour.
Connect the Community
The industry thrives on relationships — between brands and bartenders, distillers and distributors, creators and consumers. The Bestcocktails platform fosters meaningful connections between producers, mixologists, retailers, and media, creating real business opportunities and collaborations.
Elevate Standards
Winning a medal at Bestcocktails is more than an accolade, it’s a benchmark. Our expert judging panel offers honest, unbiased feedback that producers can use to refine and grow. Our goal is to raise the bar for the entire industry and push the culture of spirits forward.
Support Innovation & Inclusion
We’re proud to create a space that welcomes diverse voices, new ideas, and fresh perspectives. Whether you’re a woman-led brand, a BIPOC distiller, an LGBTQ+ bartender, or an international newcomer, you belong here. Innovation knows no boundaries — and neither do we.