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The Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA), in partnership with Republic National Distributing Company, the Louisiana Office of Tourism, and Louisiana Libations, is proud to announce the winners of the Four Roses Bourbon Smash Showdown. The event, held on Sunday, August 4, 2024, at the New Orleans Morial Convention Center, saw Desmond Stewart of Cochon Restaurant and Bar Tonique crowned as the champion, with Taylor Trepagnier of Zea Restaurant and Bar securing the runner-up position.

Desmond Stewart captured the judges' attention with his winning cocktail, Kind of Blue. This masterful creation featured a homemade blueberry and peach shrub, complemented by honey-candied lemon wheels. The inspiration behind Kind of Blue stems from Desmond’s love for Miles Davis and his passion for crafting cocktails that blend bold flavors with a touch of creativity, allowing him to express his artistry through mixology.

With three years of bartending experience, Desmond has honed his skills at Cochon and Bar Tonique in New Orleans, where he enjoys creating an inviting atmosphere that enhances the overall experience for his patrons.

Taylor Trepagnier, representing Zea Restaurant and Bar, also delivered a remarkable performance, showcasing a unique take on the classic Bourbon Smash that secured him the runner-up title.

The showdown was further elevated by the participation of high-profile judges, each bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to the event:

• • Dickie Brennan of Dickie Brennan & Co., renowned for establishments such as Bourbon House, DB Steakhouse, Tableau, Palace Café, the Commissary, and the Audubon Tea Room.
  • Emery Whalen of QED Hospitality, known for her leadership at Jack Rose, Hot Tin, Bayou Bar in the Pontchartrain Hotel in New Orleans, LA Jackson in Nashville, and the Table at the Jim Beam campus in Lewisville.
  • Stan Harris, President and CEO of the Louisiana Restaurant Association and a self-professed recovering restaurateur with over 30 years of experience.

“We were blown away by the level of talent and creativity on display,” said Stan Harris, President and CEO of the LRA. “Desmond Stewart’s winning cocktail was a true testament to the artistry that our Louisiana bartenders bring to the table. This event not only celebrated the heritage of Four Roses Bourbon but also highlighted the incredible talent we have in Louisiana's local bars and restaurants.”

The Four Roses Bourbon Smash Showdown was a highlight of the LRA Showcase, a two-day event that brought together industry professionals, vendors, and enthusiasts to celebrate the best of Louisiana’s restaurant and hospitality scene. The competition was sponsored by Republic National Distributing Company, the Louisiana Office of Tourism, and Louisiana Libations.

​For more information on the LRA Showcase and other upcoming events, please visit www.lra.org.