Many Bartenders will tell you that one of the keys to success and national recognition is by winning competitions. Why? Because they offer great exposure, allow you the opportunity to hone in your skills, teach you how to achieve grace under pressure, prize money gives you the chance to reinvest in your career and the trips provide educational and memorable experiences. There is also the opportunity to bond with other bar professionals and do some serious networking. However winning a competition is more than just quickly throwing a few ingredients together and writing a recipe. You have to tap into your inner passion, as well as, abide by the “Rules of Engagement”.

Each competition comes with its own set of criteria. Too many times competitors trip themselves up by not adhering to the rules. It is important to pay attention to the ingredient maximums. You also need to be aware if homemade ingredients are allowed are not. Remember the sponsor is looking to gain something from this competition. It is a part of their marketing strategy. While they are looking for a superior cocktail that features their product, many are also looking for something that speaks to bartenders and consumers, and is easy to replicate.

Think about the secondary spirits you are using in your cocktail. Research the sponsor. Find out what else is in their portfolio. Try to use parts of that portfolio in your cocktail. This next point is key because too many bartenders do not pay attention to this golden rule. If you want to use a particular spirit and they have it in their portfolio, you must use that brand. For example, if you want to use gin as a secondary component and they have gin in their portfolio, then you need to use that particular gin in your cocktail. If they don’t have gin in their portfolio, then you are free to use any brand that you like.

Research the sponsor brand. Learn as much information that you can about them. When did they first go into production, who was the original head of the company, what country is this spirit from, what is it made of and any other detail that seems of historical relevance. Use this information when naming your cocktail. Now your drink has a story behind it, it is now more marketable and judges love that stuff.

BE AWARE OF TIME LIMITS. It does not matter how fabulous your cocktail is, if you come into a competition and you waste the judge’s time by not being prepared, you will not win. Practice making your drinks within the time allowed. Sponsors and Judges are on your side. They want to see you succeed. However you have to do your work first. Practice, practice, practice. Last but not least SMILE. We are in the best business in the world, so show it.

This year in conjunction with Hanna Lee Communications, Inc. PAMA is thrilled to be sponsoring our ARE YOU INDISPENSABLE? PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur Cocktail Competiton. Our illustrious judges are Eben Freeman, Julie Reiner, Kate Latts, Paul Pacult and Steve Olson. Submissions will be taken till October 31, 2013. Please go to ShakeStir.com/PAMA for details and application.

Good Luck!