So… life got a little crazy there for a moment and the blog took a backseat to real life events. But, I’ve been writing and documenting all of my #research outings and amazing travel that has made up one of the busiest and most rewarding October/November I’ve ever had.
So, with that being said let’s get this blog back on track!
I attended my first live competition, the Van Gogh Vodka BARtist of the year in Charleston, SC and it was AMAZING!
I’m one of those people who really likes airports- so everything from the travel to the food, to the (many) Van Gogh cocktails it was a whirlwind adventure and I loved every second of it!
I had the BEST calamari of my life at Amen Street Fish and Raw Bar- they called it Calamari Steak and it had such a firm, meaty texture I can see why! It was lightly fried and perfectly crispy and paired perfectly with the Blackened Shrimp.
Next we met with a few people for drinks back at the hotel bar… the hotel, the Spectator, it was one of the nicest places I have ever stayed! I had a Van Gogh Acai-Blueberry and soda and my Partner in Crime had a Palmetto Amber, which he really enjoyed.
Dinner followed at a local seafood joint where raw oysters were in abundance (but I still can’t talk myself into trying one) and I devoured my Shrimp and Grits. I finished the meal with a Van Gogh Double Espresso over ice. And then it was off to the hotel for a relaxing bath and a Banana Bread dessert shot that was left by the butler followed by a fabulous night sleep before the competition day!
Our butler (yes, a real butler!) delivered our breakfast bright and early! Ham and Cheese biscuits, hard boiled eggs, fresh fruit, coffee, and juice as we sat lounged in the room. A perfect start to the big day!
I arrived at the event space, 5 Faber, a beautiful space owned by Halls Chophouse right on time and got busy prepping for the event! Us three finalists made each made a big batch of our drinks to serve to the event guests. We did a practice round/filmed version for the promotional team to use and then had a quick interview with Chilled Magazine. Then it was time for the main event!
I was NERVOUS! It was my first competition! And I hate to admit it, but I definitely let my nerves get to me… I learned so much on this trip and I met some amazing people! I hope to be back next year (I’m already brainstorming drink ideas!).
My co-finalists both had delicious cocktails and wonderful presentations- it truly was an honor to be one of the three finalists! Congratulations to J.A. Harrison for taking home the win!
