A few weeks back, OffBeat and Herbsaint asked local bartenders and mixologists to submit their entries to our first annual Melodic Mixology Cocktail Competition. We’re in search of the best musically inspired cocktail using Legendre Herbsaint Original 100 proof and the response was incredible. Herbsaint has narrowed down the competition to five finalists who will compete July 16th at Bellocq (live judging is closed to the public). The winning cocktail will be featured at this year’s Tales of the Cocktail at the Herbsaint Lounge on July 28. The winner will also receive an Herbsaint prize package that includes a two-night stay at the Hotel Monteleone during Tales of the Cocktail, $500 cash, a potluck package of OffBeat back issues, and a set of OffBeat compilation albums. The Top Five Finalists of Melodic Mixology Cocktail Competition, which will proceed to the final judging are:

Michael Glassberg, Hotel Monteleone
Cocktail Name: The Bell Gal
Song: I Ain’t Gonna Give Nobody None Of This Jelly Roll, Sweet Emma Barrett

Vincent Heintz, Coquette
Cocktail Name: The St. James Sour
Song: St. James Infirmary Blues, Louis Armstrong

Abigail Gullo, SoBou
Cocktail Name: Tango Till They’re Sore
Song: Tango Til They’re Sore, Tom Waits and Abigail Gullo

Don Lindig, Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse
Cocktail Name: New Orleans Lady
Song: New Orleans Lady, Louisiana Leroux

James Syock, Iris Restaurant
Cocktail Name: The St. James Frappe
Song: St. James Infirmary Blues, Louis Armstrong

Congratulations to our five finalists and thanks to all who entered the competition!