Mixology is making a twist in downtown Gilroy.
On May 19, The Milias Restaurant hosted the first Bartenders Competition, drawing bartenders from around the bay area for a night of friendly contest to see who could tantalize tasters with the best drinks featuring Russell’s Reserve 10-year Bourbon and Distillery 209 Gin.
Milias’ lead bartender Emily Lettunich emerged as the winner chosen by three esteemed, independent judges who singled out her rosemary and lavender-infused cocktails as the top performers. Second-place winner was Bryan Douglas Bayuga, or “Boogie,” a Gilroy resident, real estate agent and former Milias bartender. Additional honors went to Dante Giuliodibari, bartender at Original Joe’s in San Jose and Tom Weymouth, bartender at Station 55.
According to Milias co-owners Ann Zyburra and Adam Sanchez, the effort was geared to help up the ante on high-end craft cocktail mixology in Gilroy, and showcase local talent and the downtown as a destination location.
“We have some wonderful bartenders here in Gilroy,” Zyburra said. “We wanted to provide an experience with San Francisco-level judges.”
Not to mention the fun factor. Sanchez said he’s a big proponent of a creative approach to drink-making that also includes use of the restaurant’s organically-grown herbs onsite.
“Mainly it was a fun thing that no one has done in this area,” Sanchez said. “San Francisco and Los Angeles do this kind of thing all of the time, and it kind of ups everyone’s game.”
The owners thanked the sponsors, judges and Southern Wine & Spirits.
Sanchez and Zyburra said they plan to expand the event to include surrounding area talent and participation next year.
Here are some of the recipes from the night’s action:
Russell’s Reserve 10 year Bourbon
Sprigs of fresh rosemary
6 red grapes
1/2 lemon juice
1/8 oz. agave syrup
1 3/4 oz. Russell’s Reserve
1/4 oz. Tequila Reposado
Stir and strain into a chilled martini glass with a smoked salt rim
Garnish with fresh rosemary and grape
Distillery 209 Gin
1/2 lemon juiced
1/8 oz. agave syrup
3 dashes lavender aromatics
1 oz. 209 Gin
1 oz. barrel aged gin
Stir and strain into a chilled martini glass
Garnish with lemon twist and fresh lavender
