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As Bourbon Demand Grows, Marriott Inspires New Experiences With Its First Expertly Curated Bourbon Program
Marriott Hotels, the flagship brand of Marriott International, kicked off its premier Bourbon Battles competition yesterday – a five-city tour with a mission to crown the ultimate bourbon cocktail craftsman. Hosted by leading spirit expert and author Heather Greene, the event series will debut in Lexington, KY followed by stops in Portland, Calgary and Boston, culminating in New York City on National Bourbon Day, June 14. The new Bourbon Battles competition series is being launched as part of the broader Marriott Hotels Bourbon Program, an innovative on-property experience for guests and visitors.
“Bourbon has all the essential elements to create an engaging bar experience for our guests. It has a rich history and compelling stories driven by unique brands. It offers options for everyone’s taste, from creative cocktails to exclusive pours” said Matthew Carroll, vice president Brand Management, Marriott Hotels.
“Our new Bourbon Battles competition helps bring creativity and unexpected tastes to our guests.”
Marriott Hotels’ Bourbon Battle features four contestants per event. Winners from the first four events will win a chance to compete in the finale round in New York City. It’s a great way for Marriott Hotels to showcase some of the best bartenders in the industry. At each Battle, the Marriott bartenders will go up against local mixologists to prove their bourbon mixology skills.
In the past decade, there has been nearly a 40 percent growth in sales of bourbon and Tennessee whiskey in the United States, according to the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States. Tapping into this trend, Marriott Hotels’ Bourbon Program features world-renowned spirits brands, such as Maker’s Mark and Knob Creek, signature cocktails and locally curated flights at Marriott Greatroom lobby bars in over 250 properties.
“I’m thrilled to partner with Marriott Hotels as they make America's greatest spirit more accessible to all who want to celebrate it,” said Heather Greene, world-leading spirit expert. “It’s so nice for both bourbon loyalists and new curious connoisseurs to find themselves at home with this program that offers well-made cocktails and excellent service."
To see the action in real time, follow #BourbonBattles and Marriott Hotels on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.
For more information about the Greatroom experience, bourbon offerings and the other newest innovations from Marriott Hotels, visit TravelBrilliantly.com.