Take a look back at the talented bartenders and original cocktails that have earned top honors at the Virginia Cocktail Games. Explore past champions and the winning recipes that helped define each year’s competition.
Winner of the 2026 Virginia Cocktail Games, MacKenzie Carter impressed judges with “The Virtus,” an original cocktail featuring Three Birds Agave Spirit from Old House Distillery. Her winning creation stood out for its inventive flavors, thoughtful storytelling and polished presentation, offering a memorable interpretation of the theme “From the Backroads to Victory Lane.”
Explore the original cocktail recipes that earned these talented bartenders a place in the Virginia Cocktail Games Finals. Each creation showcases their creativity, craftsmanship and unique approach to Virginia-made spirits.
Winner of the Virginia Cocktail Games, Christa Thomas impressed judges with “The Cardinal Rose,” a beautifully balanced cocktail that highlighted the creativity, craftsmanship and versatility of Virginia-made spirits. Her winning drink stood out for its thoughtful flavor profile, elegant presentation and ability to tell a uniquely Virginia story in every sip.
Wang Jiang Lou
Vault & Cellar
Palisades Restaurant
The Barrelhouse
Explore the original cocktail recipes that earned these talented bartenders a place in the Virginia Cocktail Games Finals. Each creation showcases their creativity, craftsmanship and unique approach to Virginia-made spirits.
Henry Hill Jr. earned top honors at the Virginia Cocktail Games with “No Place Like Home,” an original cocktail rooted in a strong sense of place. Through creative storytelling, intentional flavors and skillful execution, Henry created a memorable expression of Virginia that carried him to the winning title.
The Tavern in Abingdon
The Catamount Lounge
Glass Light Restaurant
Devil’s Backbone Brewpub
Explore the original cocktail recipes that earned these talented bartenders a place in the Virginia Cocktail Games Finals. Each creation showcases their creativity, craftsmanship and unique approach to Virginia-made spirits.
