Bartenders from across the Adirondacks will shake things up at the 2nd annual BARRED! Adirondack Bartender Challenge, presented by Happy Hour in the High Peaks and Basil & Wick’s.

Inspired by the reality TV show CHOPPED, bartenders face off to create a winning cocktail utilizing a mystery basket of ingredients. Contestants have just seven minutes to make, name, and present their drink while hometown fans cheer them on.

This year’s judges are Adirondack Almanack founder and editor John Warren, SUNY Adirondack culinary arts instructor Kathy Waite, Liquid Chef and Whiteface Lodge bartender Zach Blair, and Essex County attorney Julie Garcia. Judges will evaluate each contestant on presentation, technique, creativity, and taste. The first-place winner will receive a trophy, $100 cash, and bragging rights. Second and third place prizes will also be awarded. Schroon Lake’s Mark Piper, musician and voice-over professional, will emcee the competition.

BARRED! will be held on Saturday April 9, 2016 from 2 to 4:30 pm at Basil & Wick’s at 3195 RT-28 North Creek, NY. There is no charge for admission to the event. For more information contact Basil & Wick’s at (518) 251-3100 or email Happy Hour in the High Peaks at happyhourinthehighpeaks@yahoo.com.