United States Bartenders' Guild and Don Q Rum Launch National 2012 Mixology Challenge

STAMFORD, Conn., Feb. 28, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Serralles USA, exclusive distributors of Don Q, Puerto Rico's premium rum, is proud to announce the launch of the "2012 Mix It Up Ultimate Mixology Challenge." This multi-staged mixology competition in conjunction with the United States Bartenders' Guild (USBG) offers bartenders a chance to hone their skills in a competitive yet friendly environment.

The 2012 Mix It Up Ultimate Mixology Challenge kicked off in Connecticut on February 27th and will run through mid-May with Mix It Up challenges in 29 USBG chapters. USBG chapter markets include: Connecticut, St. Louis, Milwaukee, Miami, Atlanta, Chicago, New York, Cincinnati, Austin, Boston, Charleston, Dallas, Denver, Hawaii, Houston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, New Mexico, New Orleans, San Francisco, Oregon, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Pittsburgh, Reno, Rhode Island, San Diego, Tampa Bay, Tucson.

The top mixologist from each chapter will win a trip to the Manhattan Cocktail Classic and a spot to compete in the 2012 Mix It Up Ultimate Mixology Finals at the Hotel Andaz in New York on May 12. Winners will ultimately be judged on taste, creativity and craftsmanship.

"Don Q Rum created the 2012 Mix It Up Ultimate Mixology Challenge as a way to support the mixology community across the country," said John Eason, VP National Sales Manager at Serralles USA. "This year, members will mix up the Island's Spirit by creating cocktails that capture the essence of Puerto Rico, using Serralles' versatile portfolio. Don Q is the #1 premium rum on the island, and Don Q Anejo is a favorite among competitors."

Five winners from the finals will be flown to Puerto Rico for a tour of the distillery and be featured in Don Q's holiday mixology video.

About Serralles USA:

Don Q is produced by Destileria Serralles Inc., in Ponce, Puerto Rico, and distributed by Serralles USA, Stamford, CT. Destileria Serralles' portfolio includes: Don Q Cristal, Don Q Gold, Don Q Anejo, Don Q Gran Anejo, Don Q Limon, Don Q Coco, Don Q Mojito, BlackBeard Spiced Rum and Palo Viejo. Its flagship brand, Don Q Cristal, is the #1 premium rum on the island, where more than 70% of the rum consumed in the US is produced. Please visit www.donq.com and follow us on www.facebook.com/DonQ and @donqrum

About USBG:

The USBG is the largest network of professional bartenders in the U.S. who come together to share the craft of mixology. With over 60 years of presence in the United States and International coverage in affiliation with the International Bartender's Association (IBA) in over 50 countries, the United States Bartenders' Guild is setting the standard for the profession throughout the country. With the resurgence and increasing popularity of the cocktail, there is a high demand for creative and professional bartenders. As an industry leader, the USBG is responsible for educating its members about current trends while encouraging them to start new ones. For more information, visit www.usbg.org        

For media credentials, photos, recipes and interview requests, please contact: 

Sarah Stabile
Hi-Impact Communications
212.206.9073
[email protected]

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SOURCE Serralles USA