This year, Tales of the Cocktail Foundation and Good, Clean, Fun are hosting a unique Espresso Martini competition—exclusively in the United States. Unlike traditional cocktail contests judged subjectively by experts, this event uses measurable criteria to determine the winner.
Speed, Cleanliness, and Precision Take Center Stage
Competitors will wear a white t-shirt and must craft an Espresso Martini as quickly and cleanly as possible. Time is tracked with a stopwatch, while cleanliness is assessed by counting stains on the bartender’s shirt and workspace. Every stain results in a time penalty, similar to a biathlon shooting competition.
The Legacy of the Espresso Martini
Sponsored by Absolut Vodka and Kahlúa, this competition pays homage to the cocktail’s history. The Espresso Martini was created by legendary bartender Dick Bradsell in 1983 at Soho Brasserie in London. Originally called Vodka Espresso, the drink later became Espresso Martini before Bradsell briefly renamed it Pharmaceutical Stimulant in 1998, when he served it over ice in a rocks glass at the Pharmacy restaurant.
The origins of the cocktail are wrapped in mystery—especially regarding its first customer. According to Bradsell, a supermodel inspired the creation, but he never revealed her name. Some speculate it was Kate Moss, others say Naomi Campbell—but considering their ages at the time (9 and 13, respectively), the truth remains unknown.
A Fun, Fast-Paced Take on a Classic
With a focus on speed, technique, and a spotless execution, this competition brings a fresh twist to one of the world’s most beloved cocktails. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting event!
