Battle of bartenders at Taste of the Marianas tomorrow

The third Saturday night of the Taste of the Marianas will again feature the islands’ talented bartenders as the Northern Marianas Bartenders Association will host another round of Bartenders’ Cocktail Competition tomorrow.

A total of 10 contestants will be battling it out for the best show while making their own great cocktails at the American Memorial Park starting at 6:30pm.

Six contestants will compete for the Battle of the Rookie, while four will vie for the Battle of the Champions.

This year’s challenge is entitled “Absolut Exposure Challenge” as the main alcohol to be used in the event is Absolut vodka.

For the rookie division, criteria for judging were 30 percent for originality, 30 percent for taste, 20 percent for showmanship, and 10 percent each for neatness and audience impact.

Runners-up will receive $25 to $75 in cash and gift prizes, while the champion will receive $150, a gift prize, a trophy, and a mobile phone.

Best in Show and Best in Taste will also take home a trophy plus $50 and a gift.

For the champion division, criteria for judging will be 20 percent for originality, 20 percent for taste, 40 percent for showmanship, and 10 percent each for neatness and audience impact.

Runners-up will receive $50 to $100 in cash and gift prizes, while the champion will receive $250, a gift prize, a trophy, and a mobile phone.

Trophies will be awarded to the Best in Showmanship along with $75 and a gift, while the Best in Taste will also get a trophy and $50 along with a gift.

A special award for props and costume will also be given a trophy and a gift.

All winners will receive a trophy and a medal while all participants will receive a certificate of participation.

Last year, Jeffric Christian D. Mendoza of Hard Rock Café Saipan won first place for the rookie division, while Ronnie Guevara of Aqua Resort Club won the champion division.

“I am inviting everyone to watch the talent of our contestants,” association president Lito Espino said.

This year’s sponsors are R&J Wines and Spirits, SAMCORP Imports, TITAN’s, Marianas Visitors Authority, DFS Galeria, IT&E, Coca-Cola, ARMATECH, Marianas Resort & Spa, Hyatt Regency Saipan, GRANDVRIO Hotel, Pacific Islands Club, and the Northern Marianas Bartender’s Association.