Okanagan Spirits Mixoff 2025: Cantina del Centro Dominates in a Night of Craft, Creativity, and Community
- Okanagan Echo
- Nov 10
- 2 min read
The Okanagan Spirits Mixoff returned in dazzling fashion last night, filling the Laurel Packinghouse with the unmistakable buzz of creativity, flavour, and local pride. Now in its 10th year, the beloved event once again celebrated the artistry of the Okanagan’s bartenders and chefs — and this year, one team made history.
For the first time ever, a single restaurant swept the competition. Cantina del Centro took home both Judges’ Choice and People’s Choice for bartender Brenna Iannarelli-Verde’s standout cocktail, “Swanky Lanky,” while also winning Best Bite for their inventive Can-Tuna Treasure.
Guests, many dressed in vintage 1920s glamour, sipped and savoured their way through the evening — sampling original cocktails crafted with Okanagan Spirits’ award-winning distillates and paired with chef-inspired small bites. The atmosphere buzzed with camaraderie as attendees mingled, voted, and danced the night away under the glow of Kelowna’s most spirited celebration.
“Okanagan bartenders continue to raise the bar each year,” said Rosanne Ting-Mak Brown, organizer of the Okanagan Spirits Mixoff. “The level of innovation and local pride on display makes this event a true celebration of our region’s craft culture.”
With its unique blend of friendly competition, local flavours, and community energy, the Okanagan Spirits Mixoff continues to cement its place as one of the valley’s most anticipated annual events — where farm-to-glass creativity shines and the Okanagan’s cocktail culture takes centre stage.
2025 Winners at a Glance
Judges’ Choice Cocktail: “Swanky Lanky” – Brenna Iannarelli-Verde, Cantina del Centro
People’s Choice Cocktail: “Swanky Lanky” – Brenna Iannarelli-Verde, Cantina del Centro
Best Bite: Can-Tuna Treasure – Cantina del Centro
About the Okanagan Spirits Mixoff
A decade strong, the Okanagan Spirits Mixoff is a showcase of creativity, craftsmanship, and community. The event brings together bartenders, chefs, and cocktail lovers from across the Okanagan Valley to celebrate the region’s world-class spirits and culinary talent. Produced in partnership with Okanagan Spirits, the Mixoff continues to highlight the artistry that makes the Okanagan a true craft destination.
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