The shakers are back, the cocktails are flowing, and the competition is heating up.

After a highly anticipated return, the Battle of the Bartenders is once again bringing bartenders and mixologists from establishments throughout Monterey Peninsula together for a year-round competition designed to find out who has what it takes to claim the title of Heavyweight Champion of the Peninsula.

The competition puts area bartenders head-to-head in a series of mixology battles, challenging them to demonstrate their creativity, technique, presentation, knowledge, and ability to create exceptional cocktails under the pressure of competition.

Unlike a single-night competition, Battle of the Bartenders is designed as a year-round series, allowing the competition to travel throughout the Peninsula and spotlight bartenders from different communities and establishments.

Each battle brings its own energy, personalities and signature cocktails, giving spectators an opportunity to see local bartenders compete while discovering some of the area’s best cocktail talent.

The Monterey Round features last year’s Grand Champion winner Andrew Weld, ofthe Salty Seal against Wells Leavitt from the local’s favorite, the Sandbar, on September 28. Anarely Baeza from Hotel 1110 will be paired against Josh Perry of Cella on October 4 for the second round of the Battle for Monterey with the champion crowned on October 12.

The Top Shelf Rounds are set for Monday, November 9 and 16 with the Grand Championship on December 7.

All competitions are held on Mondays, starting at 7:30 pm and tickets are available for spectators. Purchase tickets online for $35 or at the door at the event for $45. inventory is limited. The ticket includes admission, 6 drink samples from the competition and curated snacks.

Battle of the Bartenders
What: Year-round Peninsula-wide mixology competition
Where: Links Club Golf in Carmel Plaza
Format: Head-to-head mixology competition featuring local bartenders
Goal: Determine the Heavyweight Champion of the Peninsula

For competition updates, upcoming battles, participating establishments, and winner announcements, visit www.linksclubgolf.com