Embark on a Cocktail Adventure at the Third Annual Botanical Battle Royale!

Saturday, September 19th - 1PM-5PM

Join us in Wauwatosa at the historic Muellner Building for a spectacular day of craft cocktails, gourmet bites, and vibrant competition. Hosted by Bittercube Bitters and Heirloom Liqueurs, in collaboration with the Pour Inc. Group, this event promises an unmatched showcase of Wisconsin’s finest bartenders.

Tantalize Your Taste Buds: A Seasonal Sensation

Dive into a sensory journey at each booth as top bartenders from around Wisconsin compete, each bringing their unique style to the forefront with concoctions that highlight the unique botanicals in Bittercube and Heirloom, paired with a selection of exceptional spirits sourced from Wisconsin distilleries.

Be Part of the Action

Your palate, your vote! Engage directly in the competition by voting for your favorite cocktail, and collect your favorite recipe cards, capturing the essence of each creation.

A Feast for the Senses

Experience the thrill as all bartenders present their signature cocktails on stage, each vying for the judges’ favor. Complement your tastings with delectable offerings from premier local food trucks, and don’t miss out on sampling the spirits, liqueurs, and bitters that inspired their creations.

Esteemed Judges

Joining as a judge for the first time is Brad Thomas Parsons. He is the award-winning author of Bitters (James Beard and IACP Award Winner), Amaro, Distillery Cats, and Last Call (James Beard Award Finalist, Spirited Award Winner). One of the leading voices in the United States on bitters, amaro, and Italian drinking culture, Parsons has been writing about drinks, spirits, and bar culture since 2008. He received an MFA in writing from Columbia University, and his work has appeared in Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, Travel + Leisure, PUNCH, and more.

Also joining as a judge for the first time is Justin Burrow. He helped open Houston’s first cocktail bar, the award winning Anvil, in 2009, helping spark the city’s cocktail renaissance. In 2013, he opened Captain Foxheart’s Bad News Bar & Spirit Lodge in downtown Houston. The bar remains a cornerstone of Houston’s cocktail scene, recently earning recognition from Bon Appétit and The World’s 50 Best Bars.

Rounding out first time judges is James Beard-nominated Chef Karen Bell, owner of the beloved Milwaukee restaurant Bavette. Bell brings unique experience to the judging table as a former competitor of the BBR.

We are thrilled to welcome back Mikel McGee, floral designer and founder of 414loral flower shop, and Kevin Bush, of the synthwave group Immortal Girlfriend.

An Unforgettable Experience Awaits

Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast, a food lover, or simply in search of a remarkable day out, the Botanical Battle Royale is set to dazzle. Celebrate the artistry of cocktails, the beauty of botanicals, and the spirit of community at this one-of-a-kind event.

This event sold out each of the last two years, so secure your spot now for a day where botanical magic comes to life at the grand Botanical Battle Royale!

Competitors:

Public Parking - Madison (2025 Judge's Choice)
Station No. 6 - West Allis (2025 People's Choice)
Agency - Milwaukee
Birch - Milwaukee
Bryant's Cocktail Lounge - Milwaukee
Buckatabon - Milwaukee
Copper Turtle - Milwaukee
Field & Fire - Greenville
Lost Whale - Milwaukee
Mason Street Grill - Milwaukee

Sponsors:

45th Parallel Distillery
AeppelTreow Distillery
Cedar Ridge Distillery
Manuscrito Tequila
Eagle Park Distillery
J. Henry & Sons Bourbon
LaCrosse Distilling Co
Great Northern Distillery
Great Lakes Distillery
State Line Distillery
Wollersheim Distillery
Wisco Ice Co.

Botanical Battle Royale Cocktail Competition

Saturday, September 19th - 1PM-5PM

The Historic Muellner Building
7300 W Chestnut St, Wauwatosa, WI 53213