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The drinks were flowing, the food was enticing, and the competition was stiff on October 9th at the fourth annual Okanagan Spirits Winetender Mix Off event. Hosted by JCI Okanagan, the classy vino event was held at the Laurel Packinghouse where the sultry and smooth beats of a local jazz band serenaded foodies and wine connoisseurs alike.
Photo Credit: KelownaNow.com
Ten of Kelowna's best bar tenders paired up with ten of Kelowna's top chefs and local eateries to create a delectable combination. The event kicked off at 7:00 p.m. as the teams worked hard to impress both the panel of judges and the guests. The three judges on review were Tracey Gray, Tarynn Parker, and Gerry Jobe.
“The cocktails will be judged in several different categories. One is presentation, taste, use of spirits and the prominence of the wine within the cocktail. As well this year they are being judged on appearance so the setup, use of their tools, their demeanour and how well they present their cocktail will all be judged,” said judge Gerry Jobe.
Photo Credit: KelownaNow.com
This year's Winetender line up consisted of a number of incredibly talented bartenders and chefs. Harry Dosanj from Baraco created a fall infused cocktail with Okanagan gin and undertones of cherry and apricot. Twisted Tomato's chef, Carl Maerz and bar tender Chris Hall, designed an excellent pairing of tender, generously seasoned beef carpaccio with an Okanagan gin based cocktail that featured hints of sweet corn and applewood syrup to balance the peppery flavour of the beef.
Photo Credit: KelownaNow.com
The "Curiosity", a James Addington and Connor O'Reilly original cocktail, was an interesting twist on fresh basil. The vodka based drink was mixed with raspberry liqueur and basil infused simple syrup. The uniquely refreshing cocktail was paired with a rich, smooth duck pate topped with infused basil butter. Addington and O'Reilly represented the Delta Grand Okanagan.
There were also tasty pairings from Krafty, RauDZ, Sysco, Social 242, and Naramata Heritage Inn. Johanne Audette's Riesling based cocktail won the People's Choice Award. A roasted apple Baklava was paired with Audette's almond, raspberry infused dessert wine. The judges' choice was Ricardo's. Luke Atherton put together a lovely fall inspired cocktail, entitled “A Bridge to Fall.” Part Okanagan Brandy, part spiced apricot chardonnay reduction, this winning cocktail was paired perfectly with tender pork belly.
Photo Credit: KelownaNow.com
The atmosphere at the Winetender Mix Off certainly boasted elegance and sophistication. The contestants were charming and delightful, showcasing their individual brand style and creativity, and all of the guests were more than content, enjoying the exquisite food and the phenomenal cocktails featuring Okanagan spirits.
Photo Credit: KelownaNow.com
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