2023 Georgia’s Best Whiskey Cocktail Challenge

Photography by GEORGIA FOOD + WINE FESTIVAL

Eight of the area’s best bartenders and mixologists competed for the coveted title of “Georgia’s Best Whiskey Cocktail” March 26 at the Georgia Food + Wine Festival at Jim R Miller Park. The chosen bartenders had five minutes to create a signature cocktail featuring either Basil Hayden or Knob Creek as the primary spirit ingredient. Contestants then presented their craft cocktail to judges Tiffanie Barriere, Randy Hayden, Garn McCown and master of ceremonies Beth Burrows.

The competition came close, but Matty McKniff took home first place, Gabe Bowen placed second and Loni Lewis came in third. The top three contestants were each awarded a prize.

Above Contestant Sebastian Montero whips up his take on a classic old fashion with a twist.

Right Left to right, judges Randy Hayden, Garn McCown, winner of last year’s Best Whiskey Cocktail Challenge and Tiffanie Barriere carefully watch contestants muddle, shake and strain their specialty whiskey cocktails.