Torres Brandy Zero Challenge Top 4 Finalists

Tiffany Soles

January 7, 2025

The top four National Finalists have been determined for the 2025 Torres Brandy Zero Challenge, A Program of the USBG. In this challenge, Torres Brandy called on Bar Owners, Bar Managers, and Bartenders to transform the hospitality sector by contributing sustainable projects and solutions with a positive impact for companies, people, and the planet. The Torres Brandy Zero Challenge is the first international competition to present an award to the world's most sustainable cocktail bar project.

Please help us celebrate the Finalists who will be competing in the National Final in San Diego in February…

	Aspen Bingham \| Phoenix, AZ Aspen Bingham has spent 10 years in the hospitality industry, from bartending to promoting sustainability. As the sustainability coordinator at Dii ÌINA, a culinary company focused on food sovereignty, and a sustainability student at Arizona State University, she merges her education with her craft cocktail expertise to address cultural, environmental, social, and economic sustainability. Aspen has spoken at Tales of the Cocktail, USBG National Conferences, and local events, using her craft to spark conversation and inspire change. Find her behind the bar at Quartz, Phoenix.
	Nicole Contreras \| San Antonio, TX Hi, my name is Nicole Contreras, and I am from Monterrey, Mexico. I was raised in San Antonio, TX and went to Churchill High School. During that time, I started working at Los Azulejos Restaurant as a part-time employee while attending San Antonio College. Today, I am still employed at Los Azulejos Restaurant as a waiter serving the best food and cocktails in San Antonio, TX!!
	Lauren Pellecchia \| Loveland, OH Lauren Pellecchia is a self-taught mixologist who has been building cocktails and experiences for over ten years. Since 2019 she has been making a name for herself in the cocktail competition world – competing nationally and internationally. She currently calls Merchants Club her home – and she’d love to mix up something special for you! When not behind the bar Lauren is travelling, cooking, and spending time with her dog, cat, and nieces.
	Mark Rupp \| San Diego, CA A seasoned bartender, Mark Rupp has been immersed in the art of crafting unforgettable cocktails for as long as he can remember. Based in Ocean Beach, San Diego, he champions out-of-the-box thinking, blending his passion for music, mixology, and all things unconventional. Mark draws daily inspiration from the unwavering support of his staff and loyal regulars. Above all, he cherishes his wife and daughter, who are the heart of his world and the driving force behind his creativity.

The top scoring competitor from the National Final will move on to compete in the Global Final in Barcelona, Spain in March!

#torresbrandy, #torresbrandyzerochallenge, #zerochallenge

	Aspen Bingham \| Phoenix, AZ Aspen Bingham has spent 10 years in the hospitality industry, from bartending to promoting sustainability. As the sustainability coordinator at Dii ÌINA, a culinary company focused on food sovereignty, and a sustainability student at Arizona State University, she merges her education with her craft cocktail expertise to address cultural, environmental, social, and economic sustainability. Aspen has spoken at Tales of the Cocktail, USBG National Conferences, and local events, using her craft to spark conversation and inspire change. Find her behind the bar at Quartz, Phoenix.
	Nicole Contreras \| San Antonio, TX Hi, my name is Nicole Contreras, and I am from Monterrey, Mexico. I was raised in San Antonio, TX and went to Churchill High School. During that time, I started working at Los Azulejos Restaurant as a part-time employee while attending San Antonio College. Today, I am still employed at Los Azulejos Restaurant as a waiter serving the best food and cocktails in San Antonio, TX!!
	Lauren Pellecchia \| Loveland, OH Lauren Pellecchia is a self-taught mixologist who has been building cocktails and experiences for over ten years. Since 2019 she has been making a name for herself in the cocktail competition world – competing nationally and internationally. She currently calls Merchants Club her home – and she’d love to mix up something special for you! When not behind the bar Lauren is travelling, cooking, and spending time with her dog, cat, and nieces.
	Mark Rupp \| San Diego, CA A seasoned bartender, Mark Rupp has been immersed in the art of crafting unforgettable cocktails for as long as he can remember. Based in Ocean Beach, San Diego, he champions out-of-the-box thinking, blending his passion for music, mixology, and all things unconventional. Mark draws daily inspiration from the unwavering support of his staff and loyal regulars. Above all, he cherishes his wife and daughter, who are the heart of his world and the driving force behind his creativity.

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