Best Bartender
Winner: 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.
Runners up: Pat Owens – Tequila Harry’s and Dan Perdue – Story
Best Wine List (Restaurant)
Winner: 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.
Runners up: Story and Louie’s Wine Dive
Best Winery
Winner: 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.
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.
Runners up: KC Wine Co. and Stone Pillar Vineyard
Best Wine Selection (Liquor Store)
Winner: 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.
Runner up: Rimann Liquors
Best Beer Selection (Liquor Store)
Winner: Justin’s of Lenexa
Runner up: Gomer’s
Best Bloody Mary
Winner: The Peanut
Runners up: Wandering Vine at the Castle and Silo Modern Farmhouse
Best Brewery
Winner: Transport Brewery
Runners up: Rockcreek Brewing and Pathlight Brewing
Best Cocktails
Winner: Drastic Measures
Runners up: Story and Red Door Woodfired Grill
Best Happy Hour
Winner: Houlihan’s
Runners up: Red Door Woodfired Grill and Tavern in the Village
Best Sports Bar
Winner: The Bar
Runners up: The Peanut and Johnny’s Tavern
Best Margarita
Winner: Ponak’s
Runners up: K-Macho’s and Tequila Harry’s
