1919 Cocktail competition - 2026
1919 Cocktail Competition 2026
We're searching for Auckland's best 1919 cocktails.
Eight finalists will be selected to compete in the Grand Final in Auckland, where they will battle it out live in front of our judging panel for the top prize.
The overall winner will be invited to the distillery to create their own custom gin or blend their own whisky alongside the team at 1919 Distilling.
How to Enter
Create your original 1919 cocktail recipe.
Share your cocktail on your social media and/or your venue's social media channels.
Tag @1919_distilling in your post.
Submit your entry via the Entry Submission Form below.
Competition Timeline
Entries close: 19 August 2026
First round judging: 12 August – 20 August 2026
Finalists announced: 20 August 2026
Grand Final: 23 August 2026
Keep an eye on the #1919COCKTAILCOMP social channels for finalist announcements and competition updates.
Judging Process
During the first round of judging, you will receive a visit from one of our judges to experience the cocktail and hear the story behind the creation, the judges will also be looking to see how much you know about 1919 as a brand and out products i.e how could you show case 1919 as a brand to an overseas visitor.
At the Grand Final, all eight finalists will compete live in front of our three judges for the winning title. The finals night will be open to all friends, family and hospitality so make sure you come along and support your favourite hospo hero. The venue will also be running a special drinks menu on the night.
Entry Requirements
Only one cocktail entry is required per submission.
The cocktail must be your own original recipe.
Your cocktail must align with this year's theme: "The Spirit of New Zealand".
The cocktail may incorporate any ingredients or style you wish but must use one of the following 1919 products as the majority spirit:
1919 Single Malt Whisky
1919 Gin
1919 Vodka
1919 Rum
Cocktails do not need to be featured on your venue's menu, although this is always appreciated.
There is no limit to the number of entries per venue — we want everyone involved.
To be eligible, your venue must stock at least one bottle of any 1919 product behind the bar.
A new "Up and Coming" category is available for entrants with less than one year of hospitality experience.
Eligible Spirits
Single Malt Whisky
First Light
Goleta
Transpacific
Gin
1919 Classic
1919 Dry Pink
1919 Pineapple Bits
1919 Feijoa
1919 Yuzu
1919 London Dry
Any 1919 Custom House Gin
Vodka
1919 Vodka
Rum
1919 Cane Overproof
1919 Cane Single Cask
Final Entry Submission Requirements
Final cocktail entries must be submitted via the web form below or by email no later than the dates listed above.
Each entry must include:
A full recipe.
Methodology.
The story behind the cocktail.
An explanation of how the cocktail captures or showcases the spirit of New Zealand.
An accompanying image or video of the cocktail.
Prizes
1st Place
The winner will be invited to the distillery to create their own custom gin or blend their own whisky alongside the 1919 team and $500 Cash Price
2nd Place
$250 cash prize.
Three bottles of 1919 Gin.
Two bottles of 1919 Rum.
Remaining Six Finalists
One bottle of their choice from the 1919 range.
"Up and Coming" Award
Cash prize.
Two bottles of spirits from the 1919 range.
Bottle prizes will be issued as credit vouchers redeemable online through 1919 Distilling Online Store.
More prizes may be announced in coming days.
Media & Promotion
This year we will also be filming selected entries and finalists to showcase Auckland's bartenders, creativity and hospitality scene across our social media channels.
COMPLETE the below form to enter
GET IN TOUCH
If you have any questions about this competition or any of our products, don't hesitate to get in touch with us at anytime on the details below.
Email Questions info@1919distilling.com
Orders: sales@1919distilling.com
Point Of Contact: Soren Crabb
PHONE: 021-024-22067