This week, from May 6th to May 12th, 2025,
The United States bartending industry witnessed a flurry of activity, ranging from high-stakes competitions showcasing exceptional talent to strategic business partnerships and important regulatory updates. Professionals across the nation continued to demonstrate their dedication to the craft, pursuing excellence through rigorous challenges and staying informed about the evolving landscape of beverage service and sales. This period also highlighted the crucial role of industry organizations in fostering community and providing valuable resources for bartenders to thrive in a dynamic environment.
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USBG Presents World Class Sponsored by DIAGEO Top 30 Challenges Underway
The prestigious USBG Presents World Class Sponsored By DIAGEO competition reached a critical stage this week as the Top 30 finalists prepared for the National Finals scheduled for May 18th to 20th in Atlanta. These elite bartenders are being evaluated through a series of demanding challenges designed to test the diverse skills necessary to excel on a global platform. The “Bulleit Frontier Whiskey’s Craft & Pair – Southern Flair” challenge requires competitors to demonstrate their ability to harmonize flavors by pairing a signature cocktail, crafted with either Bulleit Bourbon or Bulleit Rye, with a dish from a curated Southern menu. Another significant challenge, “The Mercado Mix-off,” tasks participants with drawing inspiration from their personal experiences and the vibrant atmosphere of Mexican markets to create two distinct tequila-based cocktails featuring Don Julio 70 Cristalino, one a classic homage and the other a unique innovation. Finally, the finalists will face a high-pressure, timed round where they must craft six drinks in just eight minutes, judged on technical proficiency, cocktail artistry, world-class hospitality, and the effective presentation of a chosen theme. This competition underscores the multifaceted nature of contemporary bartending, demanding not only exceptional mixing skills but also culinary insight, cultural awareness, and the ability to deliver outstanding guest experiences.
2025 USBG Presents World Class Sponsored By DIAGEO Top 30 Challenges | United States Bartenders' Guild -
USBG PreShift Newsletter Keeps Bartenders Informed (May 6, 2025)
The United States Bartenders’ Guild (USBG) continued its vital role in disseminating timely information to its members with the release of the weekly PreShift newsletter on May 6th, 2025. While the specific details of this particular edition are not outlined in the provided material, the consistent publication of this newsletter underscores the importance of a reliable and centralized communication channel for bartending professionals. These newsletters typically serve as a valuable resource, providing updates on industry news, announcements of upcoming events and competitions, information about educational and training opportunities, and insights into current trends and best practices within the field. By delivering such information directly to its members, the USBG facilitates a more connected and informed community, empowering bartenders to stay ahead in a constantly evolving industry.
PreShift Newsletter | United States Bartenders' Guild
Tools & Tips
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For bartenders looking to hone their skills and stay ahead of industry trends, the Diageo Bar Academy offers a wealth of educational resources. As highlighted in the context of the USBG Presents World Class competition, competitors have access to trend-leading education and training programs backed by the academy. These resources cover a range of essential topics, including the art of pairing food and drink, mastering classic cocktail techniques and innovative twists, and developing successful cocktail menus. This platform serves as an invaluable tool for bartenders seeking to deepen their knowledge and elevate their professional capabilities.
2025 USBG Presents World Class Sponsored By DIAGEO Top 30 Challenges | United States Bartenders' Guild -
While slightly beyond the specified week, the upcoming USA Trade Tasting event on May 20th in Chicago presents a significant opportunity for bartenders and other on-premise beverage professionals. This one-day event is designed to facilitate tasting, networking, and educational experiences, bringing together brands, importers, distributors, retailers, sommeliers, and bartenders. Given recent announcements regarding potential tariffs, the event will also focus on navigating the evolving trade landscape and fostering partnerships within the industry. Attending such events can provide bartenders with valuable insights into market trends, new product offerings, and the broader economic factors influencing the beverage industry.
Trump Tariffs Disrupt Drinks Trade – Attend USATT 2025
Fun Fact
Did you know that May 13th, 2025, is World Cocktail Day? This annual celebration provides the perfect opportunity to appreciate the creativity, skill, and artistry that define the world of cocktails. Interestingly, on this very day, tickets will go on sale for Tales of the Cocktail® 2025 in New Orleans, a premier global event for the cocktail and spirits industry. It seems like a fitting date to mark the beginning of preparations for another year of learning, networking, and celebrating the evolution of cocktail culture.
We’d love to hear from you!
Have you participated in any bartending events or utilized new bartending tools recently? Share your experiences or insights with us—we’re featuring selected community voices in next week’s edition.