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Industry pros to select this year’s official Orange Drop drink
As bartenders from across Redlands prepare to shake, stir, and pour their way through the 2025 Redlands Chamber Cocktail Competition on Aug. 21, a panel of nationally recognized judges will be watching, and tasting, closely.
Running from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., the public tasting event invites attendees to sample and vote for the People's Choice Award. Meanwhile, the Redlands Chamber has tapped three standout professionals to select the official 2026 Orange Drop cocktail. With decades of experience in mixology, hospitality, and spirits education, these judges bring both expertise and a deep love for the craft.
Meet the judges below.
Event information and tickets available here.
Damian Windsor is a seasoned hospitality professional with over two decades of experience in bar operations, brand management, beverage development, and education. Throughout his career, he has been instrumental in launching and managing successful bar programs, overseeing national sales efforts, and advocating for spirits education and brand awareness.
Currently, Damian serves as a Business Development Manager at Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits (Coastal Pacific Wine & Spirits), specializing in the Diageo agave portfolio. His prior roles include Brand Manager for Heavenly Spirits Imports, Director of National On-Premise Chain Accounts for El Tequileno Tequila, and Business Development Manager at Hotaling & Co. He is also the founder of Inkwell, with locations in Omaha and Chicago, and has held leadership roles at iconic venues including The Roger Room, The Power House, and Clifton’s Cafeteria.
Damian has earned numerous accolades in national cocktail competitions, including wins in the Domaine de Canton and Grand Marnier competitions, as well as finalist placements in the 42 Below World Cocktail Cup. His educational background includes executive coursework at the University of Michigan Ross School of Business, BAR Ready Certification through Beverage Alcohol Resource, and agave certification from the Consejo Regulador del Tequila.
He has served as a brand ambassador for notable spirits including Mr. Black Cold Brew Liqueur, Amaro Montenegro, and Partida Tequila, consistently promoting cocktail culture and education across the country.
With over 30 years in the hospitality industry, Naomi Schimek has cultivated a reputation for cocktail craftsmanship, education, and creative event production. She is known for her versatility—having worked across the full spectrum of the bar world, from nightclubs and dive bars to luxury cocktail lounges and global brand campaigns.
Naomi served as Beverage Director of The Spare Room at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, where her custom-themed menus and event programs earned the venue two nominations for Best American Hotel Bar at the prestigious Spirited Awards. She is also the founder of Schimek Studios, a multifaceted hospitality consultancy focused on events, education, and brand development.
As Global Cognac Ambassador for Distillerie Tessendier & Fils, she led educational tours throughout Asia and helped expand the brand’s global footprint. She served four years on the board of the United States Bartenders’ Guild Southern California Chapter, including two years as President, supporting community initiatives and education for local bartenders.
Naomi has been featured in numerous national and international publications including Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, Men’s Journal, and The Huffington Post. Her recipes appear in books such as The 12 Bottle Bar and Once Upon a Cocktail. A CAP alum of Tales of the Cocktail, she currently serves as Beverage Manager for the Kimpton Everly Hotel in Hollywood.
She resides in Los Angeles and has a passion for classic cars, vintage fashion, and rock and roll.
Alex Perkins is a hospitality industry veteran with nearly four decades behind the bar. Known for his deep commitment to bartending culture and advocacy, Alex has mentored countless professionals throughout Southern California and beyond.
He is a co-founder of the United States Bartenders’ Guild Orange County Chapter (OCUSBG) and a Certified Spirits Professional through the USBG. His passion for community-building is evident in his work as the former Southern California Ambassador for WhistlePig Whiskey and as host of the YouTube series Speaking Easy with the OC Bartender, where he highlights industry voices and stories.
Alex is also known for his colorful career highlights—including a cameo in the film Swingers and a memorable encounter with Bruce Willis—and remains a beloved figure in the hospitality community. Currently, he is pursuing a childhood dream by completing a paramedic training program.
His enduring enthusiasm for service, storytelling, and bartender advocacy continues to inspire the next generation of hospitality professionals.
📅 The Redlands Chamber Cocktail Competition takes place Thursday, Aug. 21 from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Mitten Building. For details and tickets, visit redlandschamber.org.
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