Best Bartender
(Presented by Auténtico Nativo Rum)
This individual is the pinnacle of hospitality. They have the knowledge, skills, service and temperament to be the best bartender in the area. They are a cheerleader for the region, user of local products, frequently compete/travel and encourage peers/customers to learn more about cocktails.
Best Bartender Giancarlo Aversa (The Last Word, Ann Arbor)
Jorge Cherriz (Johnny's, Royal Oak)
Roger Fruin (Takoi, Detroit)
Tara Jagodinski (The Library, Detroit)
Bin Khulayf (Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails, Detroit)
Melissa Kim (The Keep, Detroit)
Shelby Minnix (The Sugar House, Detroit)
John Neely (Highlands, Detroit)
Katrell Thomas (The Skip, Detroit)
Chas Williams (Evening Bar, Detroit)
No Vote / Skip Question
Best Beer Program
(Presented by Old Nation Brewery)
This venue has a diverse selection of beers that are local, national and international. They retain skilled staff to inform the customers, are always learning and encourage experimentation. They have an extensive tap system, their selection often changes, and often have a "dusty bottle" list. Preference has been given to venues that encourage and support beginning beer consumers.
Best Beverage Event
These are the best events in the region. They have diverse offering of products, focus on education and keeps safety in mind.
Brewery of the Year
These are the best breweries in Michigan. They are both making incredible traditional and experimental beers. They use premium products, show off local flavors and excel at educating their consumers.
Best Cicerone
These are the best beer professionals in the region that have reached cicerone status or higher. They are cheerleaders for the industry, region and beer in general. Their knowledge is deep in the discipline and they have advanced it for the betterment of the region.
Best Bar
(Presented by Wheatley Vodka)
This is the best venue to receive a cocktail. This includes excellence in hospitality and cocktail knowledge. The drinks are delicious, thoughtful, and creative. Experimentation in ingredients and techniques is thoughtfully utilized. Customers receive consistently great drinks and service.
Best Brand Support
These are the brands that are supporting Michigan through education. They are active in sampling their products, sponsoring events, hosting trainings and generally being involved in the community.
Distillery of the Year
(presented by Mover & Shaker Co)
These are the best Michigan based distilleries in the region. They consistently make quality spirits, take measured chances and have a diverse product line. These brands have won regional and national accolades. Preference has been given to brands that support local media.
Michigan Distillery of the Year
Best Brand Launch
This is a brand that is new to the Michigan market. These programs were creative, attention getting and supported local media.
Best Non-Alcoholic Program
(Presented by Watershed Distillery)
Having options for all guests is the pinnacle of hospitality. These venues excel at providing a great experience for non-alcoholic drinkers with unique flavors, textures and components.
Best Non-Alcoholic Program
Best Retail Venue
(Presented by Coppercraft Distillery)
These are the best venues for purchasing craft beverages in Metro Detroit. Their staff is knowledgeable, their selection is diverse and they work with producers for custom picks.
Best Sommelier
These are the best wine professionals in the region that have reached certified sommelier (CMS) or higher. They are cheerleaders for the industry, region and wine in general. Their knowledge is deep in the discipline and they have advanced it for the betterment of Metro Detroit.
Best Tea or Coffee Program
Brewing the perfect cup of tea or coffee requires just as much skill as a bartender. These venues provide a superior beverage. They source fair trade when possible, provide a wide range of products and are knowledgeable on what they serve.
Best Tea or Coffee Program
Best Whiskey Program
(Presented by JP Wisers & Bechervoka)
This venue has a diverse selection of whiskeys that are local, national and international. They retain skilled staff to inform the customers, are always learning and encourage experimentation. They have an extensive spirits list, their selection often changes, and often have a "dusty bottle" list. Preference has been given to venues that encourage and support beginning whiskey consumers.
Best Wine Program
(Presented by Amaro Montenegro)
This venue has a diverse selection of wines that are local, national and international. They retain skilled staff to inform the customers, are always learning and encourage experimentation. They have an extensive wine list, their selection often changes, and often have a "dusty bottle" list. Preference has been given to venues that encourage and support beginning wine consumers.
Winery of the Year
These are the best producers of wine in the region. They are skillfully making the classics and experimenting with new varieties. The excel at education, growing amazing fruit and producing the best juice.