Judging the local Imbibe Cocktail Festival in Halifax, NS

A unique experience at the Lot 6, showcasing Nova Scotia’s finest bartenders and cocktails.

As a passionate advocate for Nova Scotia's rich beverage scene, I had the incredible privilege of judging the Imbibe Cocktail Festival at Lot Six Bar in Halifax this year. This event was not just an ordinary cocktail competition - it was an exciting showcase of local talent, creativity, and a genuine love for mixology. With bartenders from across Halifax coming together to compete, it was a thrilling opportunity to see firsthand how Nova Scotia’s bar scene continues to grow and evolve.

The event provided a platform for bartenders to experiment with ingredients, push boundaries, and take us on a flavor journey. One of the most exciting aspects of the competition was witnessing the enthusiasm and drive from bartenders who were relatively new to the industry, many of whom were using this festival as a steppingstone to regional and even international cocktail competitions. Seeing these talented individuals pour their hearts into each creation was nothing short of inspiring.

What truly stood out was the innovation in the cocktails themselves. Bartenders weren’t just making drinks — they were telling stories, weaving nostalgia and culture into every glass. As a wine enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by how spirits can evoke emotions and memories, and this competition certainly showcased that.

One of my standout favorites was Edna’s Cherry Bomb Cocktail, which was an ode to a childhood Canadian candy that is no longer available. Edna took us on a delightful trip down memory lane, combining unique flavors with a fun, nostalgic twist. It was a perfect example of how bartenders at this festival are elevating the cocktail scene in Halifax while incorporating personal stories and flavors that are deeply rooted in our shared experiences.

Another cocktail that captured my attention was created by Compass Distillers, who brought a savory "all-dressed" cocktail to the table. The Compass All-Dressed Cocktail was inspired by the beloved snack, and it immediately stood out for its boldness and creativity. The combination of savory and herbal flavors, paired with expertly crafted techniques, made it a true highlight of the competition.

Of course, I’m a huge fan of tequila-based cocktails, so I couldn’t resist raving about the tequila-forward drinks featured during the event. They’re one of my personal favorites, and seeing so many bartenders embracing this spirit in unique ways was a real treat. The cocktails showcased how tequila can be used in innovative ways that both honor its traditional roots and explore new creative boundaries. From smooth and citrusy margaritas to spicy and bold infusions, each tequila-based creation made a lasting impression.

As we gear up for Wine Fair Halifax 2025, I couldn’t help but draw inspiration from the creativity and passion I witnessed at the Imbibe Cocktail Festival. The level of innovation and dedication that local bartenders put into their craft is exactly what we want to continue celebrating at Wine Fair Halifax. As we expand our event in 2025, we’re looking forward to showcasing the diversity of talent across Halifax’s food and drink scene — from the wineries to the spirits, and of course, the incredible cocktails.

Wine Fair Halifax is committed to spotlighting local Nova Scotia wineries while also celebrating international trade partners who share our values of sustainability and quality. We are passionate about supporting local businesses, and as we witnessed at the cocktail festival, it’s local businesses that create the unique flavors and experiences that make Halifax such an exciting destination for food and drink lovers.

We are also excited to be a part of another exciting event coming up! Cellar Events Inc. and Wine Fair Halifax will be at the Savour Food & Wine Festival Show on April 17th, 2025, at the Halifax Convention Centre (mark your calendars!). There will be a special offer on Wine Fair Halifax 2025 tickets, and we’ll be pouring some tasty wines for all attendees. It’s the perfect chance to get a taste of what’s to come at Wine Fair Halifax in October 2025!

Get ready to be a part of this exciting experience on October 4th, 2025, as we celebrate local talent, international flavors, and our shared love for fine beverages. Tickets for Wine Fair Halifax are available now, so make sure to stay tuned for updates and get yours before they sell out!

Let’s continue to celebrate the incredible talent and innovation in the Halifax cocktail and wine scene. Stay tuned for more exciting updates leading up to the big event, and let’s raise a glass to an amazing 2025!