The Great ShakeUp
Calling all cocktail enthusiasts and spirit aficionados! Two weeks ago, I had the pleasure of diving into the dynamic world of mixology at The Great ShakeUp, a pioneering bartending competition spotlighting the creativity and expertise of Black mixologists. Hosted by Latoya Vickers, the visionary behind The Festival Noir, this event surpassed my expectations and left a lasting impression.
About The Great ShakeUp
More than just a bartending competition, The Great ShakeUp is a vibrant celebration of diversity and talent within the spirits industry. This event proudly showcases Black-owned gins, whiskeys, and other spirits, highlighting the craftsmanship and innovation of these creators.
The statistics speak volumes—did you know that less than 6% of bartenders are Black? The Great ShakeUp aims to shine a light on this disparity and elevate the voices of Black bartenders, distillers, and spirit producers.
Held at The Coan in Ladson, South Carolina, the event was a feast for the senses, with delectable hors d'oeuvres, an open bar featuring Black-owned spirits, and music spun by DJ Scrib, all hosted by the charismatic Claudia Jordan.
The Competition
Judged by @thecocktailbandits and celebrity host Claudia Jordan, The Great ShakeUp brought together a lineup of talented mixologists from across the United States. Contestants were tasked with crafting innovative cocktails using premium Black-owned spirits, showcasing their artistry and creativity in each drink.
Competitors hailed from various corners of the country—Alvyia Cain from Indianapolis, Giovanni Lubin from New York, Sekani Akunyun from Charlotte, and Thomas Moore from Louisiana—each bringing a unique perspective and skill set to the mixology table.
Featured Spirits
The competition featured an impressive selection of Black-owned spirits, including offerings from Royalty Spirits, Ingenious Gin, Stone Crest Distillery, Siwani Spirits, and Uncle Nearest—each contributing to the diverse and flavorful array of libations.
The Winner
The suspense was palpable as the competition heated up, narrowing down to a thrilling finale between Alvyia and Giovanni. As a New Yorker, I admit to a bit of bias rooting for Giovanni. The crowd was on edge, eagerly awaiting the judges' decision. And the winner of the 2024 Great ShakeUp Cocktail Craftsman Competition was announced—Giovanni Lubin from New York! His cocktails were a delightful balance of creativity and flavor, reminiscent of the best drinks I've had in Manhattan.
Networking
Beyond the excitement of the competition, The Great ShakeUp provided an excellent opportunity for networking, especially for someone like me new to Charleston. The event was exceptionally organized, and the attendees were welcoming—a testament to Latoya Vickers' stellar event planning. I'm already looking forward to the next edition!
Stay Connected
For more updates, cocktail recipes, and to join the conversation, follow Latoya Vickers and The Festival Noir on Instagram @thefestivalnoir. Use #TheGreatShakeup to connect with fellow cocktail enthusiasts and support Black-owned businesses in the spirits industry.
Whether you're a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or simply curious about the art of mixology, The Great ShakeUp is a must-follow event that celebrates Black excellence in the spirits industry. Cheers to diversity, creativity, and unforgettable cocktails!
