Tales of the Cocktail Foundation (TOTCF) has announced the opening of nominations for the 2025 Spirited Awards.

Since its inception in 2007, the Spirited Awards have become one of the most prestigious honours in the global cocktail community, recognising the exceptional work of individuals, products, establishments, and media across the spirits and hospitality industry.

Aussies always feature prominently among the international finalists and scooped three awards at the 2022 Spirited Awards: Best International Brand Ambassador went to Martin Hudak at Mr Black Spirits; Best International Bar Team went to Sydney’s MAYBE SAMMY; and Best New Spirit or Cocktail Ingredient went to Lyre’s Non-Alcoholic – Italian Orange. 

There are a wide array of categories, both domestic and international, including awards that transcend borders such as World’s Best Cocktail Bar, World’s Best Cocktail Menu, and the Tales Visionary Award. These categories highlight the diverse talent within the industry, from bartenders to media professionals, and provide recognition for contributions that shape the world of spirits and cocktails.

“As we prepare for the 19th Annual Spirited Awards, and the continued celebration of excellence in our industry across the world, I am delighted to introduce new leadership for the Spirited Awards by way of our new US Chair Tiffanie Barriere and our new International Chair Ryan Chetiyawardana,” said TOTCF Executive Director Charlotte Voisey.

“Serving as the US Chair is an honour and a responsibility that I take to heart. This role is about lifting up others, honouring the richness of our global cocktail community, and helping shape a future where everyone’s contributions are valued and recognized,” said Barriere.

Chetiyawardana said: “Tales of the Cocktail and the Spirited Awards have been such a key part of my career and outlook on the industry. It all feels very aligned with trying to push the industry forwards and celebrating the brilliance that’s part of it.”

Timeline, categories & nominations

The 2025 Spirited Awards nomination period will be open until 13 February 2025. The Regional Honoree list will be published on April 16, followed by the announcement of the Top 10 Nominees on May 21 and the Top 4 Finalists on June 12.

The 19th Annual Spirited Awards ceremony will take place on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at The Fillmore New Orleans during the 23rd annual Tales of the Cocktail conference. Additional details, including ticketing information, will be released leading up to the event.

The nomination form, available on the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation website, is open to all, including self-nominations. It only takes one nomination to be considered for the 2025 Spirited Awards.

2025 Spirited Awards categories

• (International/US) Bartender of the Year
• Best (International/US) Bar Mentor
• Best (International/US) Brand Ambassador
• Best (International/US) Bar Team
• Best (International/US) Cocktail Bar
• Best (International/US) Hotel Bar
• Best (International/US) Restaurant Bar
• Best New (International/US) Cocktail Bar
• Timeless (International/US) Award
• World’s Best Cocktail Menu
• World’s Best Spirits Selection
• Best New Spirit or Cocktail Ingredient
• Best Cocktail & Spirits Writing
• Best Cocktail & Spirits Publication
• Best Broadcast, Podcast or Online Video Series
• Best New Cocktail or Bartending Book
• Best New Book on Drinks Culture, History or Spirits
• Visionary Award