Bloody Mary Contest Rules

  • Entrants must be at least 18 years old.
  • Single entrants or teams of a maximum of two people are allowed.
  • Recipes must be original and tomato-based.
    • Fresh tomatoes must be used. These must be brought to the competition venue and prepared there.
    • No premade juice or passata may be used.
  • Ingredients must be provided to the judges (this is part of judging originality). The submission of measurements/quantities is optional. This submission may be typed or handwritten.
  • You will need to make a total of 10 ounces/half a pint for judging.
  • The entry Bloody Mary does not need to contain alcohol. Virgin Marys are permitted.
  • You will be provided with the following:
    • Your choice of glass from the bar (you may bring your own).
    • 4 ounces of Vodka to make your drink. No outside alcohol is allowed.
    • Straws and ice.
    • Preparation table.
  • You will provide:
    • Non-alcohol ingredients to make your drink including garnish(es).
    • All tools to prepare your recipe including knives, cutting board, shakers, spoons etc.
  • Judging will be based on the following point score:
    • Taste: 40 points.
    • Presentation: 25 points.
    • Originality: 20 points.
    • Garnish: 15 points.
  • Schedule of events:
    • 15.00 Check-in and set-up.
    • 16.30 Samples and presentation glass ready for Judges.
    • 17.00 Clean-up of table area including rubbish.
    • 17.30 Winners announced.
  • Winners:
    • Judged contest: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd who will receive a certificate.
    • First prize will win a £30 meal gift voucher to be used at The Lyndhurst, Queens Road, Reading (this is food only, you will need to pay for any drinks). There is no cash alternative to this prize.
    • Winners will be featured on The Retreat website and social posts.
  • Contest registration
  • During the Contest, the judges’ decisions are final and if necessary, will supersede these rules.