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Stoli kicks off annual LGBTQ cocktail comp

Vodka-maker Stoli Group has launched its fourth annual Key West Cocktail Classic, the world’s “largest” cocktail competition for LGBTQ bartenders.

Stoli has kicked off its annual cocktail comp for LGBTQ bartenders

The 2017 edition will see one US bartender win the top prize of $12,500 in charitable donations and the title of Stoli Key West Cocktail Classic Champion.

Developed to recognise the talents of the industry’ top LGBTQ bartenders, the Cocktail Classic also celebrates the role of gay bars in the movement towards equality.

Stoli organises the competition in partnership with the Key West Business Guild, an organisation of LGBT-owned and LGBT-friendly businesses in Key West, Florida.

“Every year we look forward to bringing together the people, charities and business that make up our extraordinary LGBTQ community,” said Patrik Gallineaux, Stoli’s national LGBTQ ambassador and brand manager.

“While our mission is to recognise the most talented and innovative bartenders, community will always be at the heart of Cocktail Classic. It has been a privilege to support and grow together over the years.”

This year, up to six LGBTQ trade staff and/or allies from 17 cities across North America will be tasked with creating an original cocktail with Stoli Vodka as the base spirit.

A panel of judges and 100 audience members will initially assess each serve and decide a regional finalist.

Each regional finalist will win a six-day, all-inclusive trip to Florida to take part in a week of events and entertainment, culminating in the grand finale, which takes place during Key West Pride 2017.

In addition to being named Key West Cocktail Classic Champion, the winner will ride in the Key West Pride Parade as honorary grand marshal; win US$12,500 for the charity of their choice; have the charity cheque presented at their home back in a celebration hosted by Stoli Vodka; and an all-expense paid trip to a Stoli Vodka destination event.

The first runner-up will receive US$2,500 for their chosen charity.

Actor and musician Jai Rodriguez will again serve as head judge, with Stuart Milk, president of the Harvey Milk Foundation; Bruce Vilanch, writer and Emmy Award-winner; American Idol’s Latoya London; fashion designer and nightlife personality Andrew Christian; and Key West’s drag queen star, Sushi joining him on the panel.

2016 champion Rocky Collins from Round-Up in Dallas competed on behalf of DIFFA/Dallas, which raises funds to support people living with or impacted by HIV and AIDS. He split the $10,000 purse with Wesley House Family Services in Key West. His cocktail, The Key West Kitty Kat, was made with 2 oz. Stoli Vanil, 2 oz. coconut simple syrup, 1.5 oz. pineapple juice, 0.5 oz. key lime juice, coconut cream, grenadine, cinnamon.

Last year Stoli created a series of “Extreme Cocktailling” videos as part of its #DrinkWhatYouWant campaign to counter “beer pressure” among men.

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