This year’s Taste of the Southside, which took place Feb. 23 at Valle Vista Country Club, in Greenwood, featured a new event, a “Mixology Competition,” sponsored by Republic National Distribution Co.
Seven area bartenders competed to create one cocktail using 2 Gingers Whiskey, Sailor Jerry Rum or Stoli Vodka. Andy Hurst of Texas Roadhouse, on SR 135 in Greenwood, walked away with the “Master of Mixology Award” and the “People’s Choice Award”. 
Hurst scored very high points for both the drink name, “Stoli Ollie Oxen Free,” and a nice balance of the drink. He received 74.5 points out of a possible 80 points. Judge Tiffany Whitaker, of event sponsor, Republic National Distribution Co., said, “The local bartenders were fun and creative. They all made wonderful cocktails, and the winning Stoli Vodka cocktail is one I will make at home.”
Stoli Ollie Oxen Free
- 1 1/4 ounces Stoli Vodka
- 3/4 ounce blackberry liqueur
- 2 ounces fresh-squeezed orange juice
- 2 ounces pineapple juice
- 4 raspberries
- Served on the rocks
VIDEO: Andy Hurst talks about how he came up with the drink and the fun name.
httpvh://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ni6ygQlGIFA
