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Winners Announced: Four Roses Bourbon Global Expedition Cocktail Competition Celebrates Louisiana’s World-Class Bartending Talent
Aug 3, 2026
The Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA) is pleased to announce the winners of the Four Roses Bourbon Global Expedition Cocktail Competition, held Sunday, July 26, during the 2026 LRA Showcase, themed "Where Louisiana Meets the World."
Presented by Four Roses Bourbon, in partnership with Republic National Distributing Company and produced by the Louisiana Restaurant Association, with support from the Louisiana Office of Tourism and the Louisiana Libations Trail, the competition showcased ten of Louisiana's most talented bartenders as they created globally inspired bourbon cocktails before a live audience.
First Place ($1,000)
Kami Divine, Vessel NOLA
Lavender Fields of Provence
Inspired by the lavender fields and flavors of southern France, Kami Divine impressed the judges with an elegant bourbon cocktail that embodied the competition's global expedition theme while showcasing the versatility of Four Roses Bourbon.
Runner-Up ($750)
Praveen Divatar, Tujague's Restaurant
Kokam Bourbon Smash
Drawing inspiration from the bold flavors of India, Praveen Divatar's Kokam Bourbon Smash earned Runner-Up honors for its creativity, balance, and international influence.
All competing bartenders received a $200 stipend in recognition of their participation and craftsmanship.
Competition Judges
- Christina Ramirez, Dakar NOLA
- Cole Newton, Twelve Mile Limit
- Jennifer O'Blenis, Tales of the Cocktail
Special Thanks to Our Sponsors
- Four Roses Bourbon — Title Sponsor
- Republic National Distributing Company — Presenting Partner
- Louisiana Restaurant Association — Event Producer
- Louisiana Office of Tourism & Louisiana Libations Trail — Supporting Sponsors
The LRA Showcase continues to be the Gulf South's premier hospitality event, bringing together restaurant operators, chefs, bartenders, suppliers, and industry leaders for two days of education, networking, culinary excellence, and innovation while celebrating this year's theme, "Where Louisiana Meets the World."