Late Harvest Kitchen Bartender Wins Tanjerine Competition

Jason Foust claims a $300 prize and a basket of Wilks & Wilson syrups as the four-day event kick-starts with a flurry of cocktails and models.

Fresh was the word. And vests. There were lots of vests involved. But fruits—strawberries, star fruit, and more—and strategic syrup use were keys to success at Tanjerine’s spirited mix-off competition Wednesday night. Held at The Sanctuary space on Pennsylvania Street downtown, in a rehabbed former church building, Tanjerine’s four days of events commenced with a cocktail-crafting competition featured drink-slingers from some of the city’s best bars. Wilks & Wilson honcho Zach Wilks served as ringleader.

Check out the accompanying photos. Here’s the bartender lineup:

» Ryan Puckett, The Libertine
» Curtis McGaha, Tini
» Francisco (Frankie) Mora, Scarlett Wine & Whiskey Room
» Steve Simon, Broad Ripple Tavern
» Mike Madison, Twist
» Jason Foust, Late Harvest Kitchenwinner