Thanks to the tens of thousands of voters who helped give their local favorites the recognition they deserve through this year’s Best of Johnson County. Congrats to this year’s Best of Johnson County Drinks & Bar winners!
Best Bartender: Evan Spieker – Wandering Vine at the Castle
Evan Spieker says he simply “wandered in to experience the great food and atmosphere” at the recently opened Wandering Vine at the Castle in his hometown of Shawnee back in 2020 — and something took. Fast forward to today, and he’s become a fixture at the popular eatery, helping ensure diners have just the right libation for their meal, from perfect wine pairings (from a wine list voted Best of Johnson County by Post readers this year) to bespoke cocktails, like the Castle Princess. “It is very exciting and a great honor to be recognized among such an outstanding group of peers in Johnson County,” Spieker said. “I am ecstatic about working with our owners Dan and Carla Dyer, the best wait and kitchen staff in KC, and our supportive clientele. A special shoutout to our amazing executive chef Hannah Winnett – winner of Best Chef!” Find out more about Wandering Vine and their drink offerings here.
Best Wine List: Wandering Vine at the Castle
At Wandering Vine, the knowledgeable staff takes pleasure in help you enjoy the perfect pairing for any palate and any occasion from a diverse selection of 150 wines from more than 20 countries, including some of the world’s most iconic labels and Castle exclusives. Wandering Vine pours one hundred wines by the glass, and serve a dozen different wine flights each featuring three wonderful selections, so you can Wander the World of Wine and discover new favorites. You can view their current list on their website here.
Best Winery: Serendipity Farm and Vine
Serendipity Farm & Vine is truly a family affair. When you visit, you’ll likely meet founder Amy Roberts’ parents, Tabb and Joyce, who help run the farm at Serendipity, keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes. Joyce takes special care of all the animals at the farm, and Tabb and Amy are partners at vinting time, making all of Serendipity’s wines together on-site.
Serendipity makes more than a dozen wines on site, offering a wide selection of captivating varietals and flavor profiles. Their Tasting Room, which offers wine tastings, wine slushies and grazing boards in their Green Barn, is open Wednesday through Sunday.
Best Wine Selection (Liquor Store): UnKCorked
unKCorked is owned by two Certified Sommeliers with over 40 years of industry experience combined. They say helping customers find that perfect bottle is their passion, and the whole reason our store exists. With more than 800 wines to choose from, their professional staff will point you in the right direction. At unKCorked, you can always expect exceptional service, unique and delicious products, and an experience that will have you coming back.
For a full list of this year’s Best of Johnson County Drinks & Bar winners and runners up, check out the winners page here. Congrats to all this year’s Drinks & Bar honorees!
