Mixology Masters,  Liquid Chefs and the studs and studesses of the Cocktail Shaker will be front and center at the annual Basil and Wick’s Bartender of the Year contest Saturday. The event, organized by Sisters Kim and Pam Ladd, authors of “Happy Hour in the High Peaks: An Adirondack Bar Guide, kicks off at 2pm Saturday and goes through to 4pm.

Schroon’s own Mark Piper will be the emcee of the event, where 15 local bartenders show off their skills at their “Barred”. Event.

The event is modeled after the popular Food Network show “Chopped”. In each heat, four bartenders will be presented with a basket of challenging ingredients and then given seven minutes to create a cocktail, with extra points given for style!

“The judges and contestants have been chosen. Now it’s time for the THROWDOWN,” Mark told us today.  All are competing for the coveted Shaker Trophy and $100.00.  The first-place winner will receive a trophy, $100 cash and big bragging rights. Second and third place prizes will also be awarded.

Basil and Wick’s, 3195 state Route 28, North Creek. There is no charge for admission to the event. For more information contact Basil and Wick’s at (518) 251-3100.