The Espresso Martini Competition

Tales of the Cocktail Foundation (TOTCF) is delighted to announce the return of Good, Clean Fun – The Espresso Martini Competition, proudly sponsored by Absolut Vodka and Kahlúa. This exhilarating national competition puts bartenders’ speed and precision to the test as they craft four Espresso Martinis—cleanly and quickly. 

From January to February 2025, bartenders nationwide will have the chance to participate in local competitions and demonstrate their skills. At each local competition, bartenders will wear an event-provided white t-shirt, step behind a pristine bar station, and race against the clock to craft four Dry Espresso Martinis using this signature recipe:

• 2 oz Absolut Vodka
• 1 oz Kahlúa Coffee Liqueur
• 1 oz espresso

Precision is key as time penalties will be applied for spills or stains. The 10 fastest and cleanest bartenders from each local event will advance to the East or West Regional Championships.

The stakes are elevated at the Regional Championships where competitors will vie for a place among the nation’s top six finalists, with exceptional prizes awaiting the winners:

• Exclusive Trip to Sweden: The top three fastest finalists from each region will win a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Absolut Akademi for an immersive training experience.
• Tales of the Cocktail Conference: The fourth fastest finalists from each region will receive a trip to the 23rd annual Tales of the Cocktail® (TOTC) conference in New Orleans from July 20-25, 2025, highlighting the best of the spirits industry.

Think you’ve got what it takes? Visit GoodCleanFunCompetition.com to locate a competition near you. Participation is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.