Five Compete in Providence Craft Cocktail Challenge

Local bartenders competed in a community cocktail challenge called CRAFT on February 23 at Milk Money in Providence. Event organizers Matt Simmons and Rhody Foody’s Lupe Aguilar served as judges alongside Ryan Draine, Justin Erickson and Taylor Swanson. Competitors Mike Ricci, Lauren Beaupre, Kandace Richmond, Trent Colford and Devon Jacob created original cocktails using showcased brands, including Rittenhouse Rye Whiskey, St. Elder Pamplemousse Liqueur, Lunazul Blanco Tequila, Pelotón de la Muerte Mezcal and Evan Williams Bourbon Whiskey, among other ingredients. The winners were Kandace Richmond in first place and Trent Colford in second.

: The evening’s featured spirits were Rittenhouse Rye Whiskey, St. Elder Pamplemousse Liqueur, Lunazul Blanco Tequila, Pelotón de la Muerte Mezcal and Evan Williams Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.

: Matt Simmons, The Cocktail Writer and Edward Brady, Principal Owner, Milk Money.

: Guests were welcomed with a glass of Mercat Cava Brut Nature Champagne.

: Ryan Draine, Beverage Director, Huck’s Filling Station and Thirsty Beaver Hometown Pub & Grill; Lupe Aguilar, Rhody Foody; Justin Erickson, Co-owner, Thirsty Beaver Hometown Pub & Grill and Milk Money; Matt Simmons, The Cocktail Writer; and Taylor Swanson, Cocktail Judge.