“Speed Rack, a competition in its second year that gathers the top female mixology talent from various cities and regions in a high-octane (and highly lubricated) shaking and stirring showdown.”

“The crowd? 750 enthusiastic cocktail lovers. Competitors? Determined, hands raised and concentrating on the task at hand—mixed up a New York sour, a Rob Roy, a mezcal drink and a low-proof St. Germain cocktail. It would only take a minute, maybe two, but it still required absolute precision and a whole lotta grace.”

“The whole thing was a blast, with good music pumping, lots of cheering and energetic and light-hearted trash talk, and a convival, friendly atmosphere. It was definitely an industry event, but lots of people who weren’t in the industry were there and felt welcome.”

“Whether you were a competitor, industry specialist, or a supporter who just happened to wander in, you were having a good time. The energy in the room was electric as well dressed patrons danced to the upbeat music and cheered on their favorite bartenders.”