The Return of the Botanical Battle Royale — Milwaukee’s Most
Immersive Cocktail Event
Milwaukee, WI — On Sunday, June 1, 2025, Bittercube Bitters and Heirloom Liqueurs, in
collaboration with Two Birds Group, will host the second annual Botanical Battle Royale at The Ivy
House from 12–4 PM. After selling out its inaugural year, the event returns with expanded offerings,
a refined competition, and a commitment to celebrating craft, community, and creativity.
The Botanical Battle Royale is not your average cocktail competition. It’s a sensory-forward
showcase of Wisconsin’s best bartenders, each presenting original cocktails built around the
botanically rich palettes of Bittercube Bitters and Heirloom Liqueurs. Guests will taste their way
through the competition, casting votes for their favorites, all while enjoying live presentations,
gourmet bites from local food trucks, and a pop-up art exhibition.
“This event is about more than great libations,” says Ira Koplowitz, founder of Bittercube and co-
founder of Heirloom Liqueurs. “It’s about elevating the role of bartenders as artists and innovators,
and creating a space where guests can connect with the people and products behind what’s in their
glass.”
Ramsey Renno, owner of Two Birds Group, which operates The Ivy House, adds:
“We’re thrilled to once again host the Botanical Battle Royale at The Ivy House. This event brings
together the best of Milwaukee’s cocktail culture with incredible talent, stunning drinks, and
unforgettable energy. It’s the kind of event our space was made for—creative, vibrant, and full of
community spirit.”
What's New in 2025:
- Expanded Tasting Experience: Guests can sample not only the cocktails but also the individual
spirits, bitters, and liqueurs used to make them at dedicated sponsor tasting tables.
- Judging for All: Each participating bartender will present their cocktail live to the judges' panel
inside The Ivy House, giving guests a front-row seat to the action.
- Art on Display: Guest judge and visual artist Josh Stover will debut five custom posters designed
for each of the Heirloom Liqueurs, available for viewing and purchase alongside a collection of his
other original works.
Confirmed Participants:
Top venues from across Wisconsin will be represented, including Lost Whale, Screaming Tuna,
Wiscocktail, Public Parking, Station No. 6, Pufferfish Tiki, and more.
The Judges Panel:
This year’s panel includes:
- Robert Simonson, acclaimed cocktail journalist for The New York Times
- Toby Maloney, legendary bartender and author of The Bartender’s Manifesto
- Immortal Girlfriend, Milwaukee-based musicians and self-proclaimed cocktail aficionados
- Mikel McGee, owner of 414loral and botanical design specialist
- Josh Stover, artist and creative collaborator with Heirloom Liqueurs
Tickets + Details:
Tickets are available now at https://bittercube.com/shop/products/botanical-battle-royale-
admission. Early bird pricing is $40 and includes access to all cocktail samples, spirit tastings, food
trucks, and a collectible recipe card from each booth.
This event is expected to sell out again. Media are encouraged to reach out for press passes and
interview opportunities with competitors, judges, and event organizers.
