Oregon Bounty Cocktail Contest Serves up a Winner

Travel Oregon Names "Hike, Fish & Go Camping Punch" the "Unofficial Official Oregon Cocktail"

PORTLAND, Ore. – October 2, 2008 – Distillers, mixologists and Oregon enthusiasts came together yesterday at Bluehour Restaurant & Bar to sip, sample and select the winner of Travel Oregon's "Create the Oregon Bounty Cocktail Contest," presented in conjunction with the Oregon Distillers Guild. After surviving three rounds of judging, and being selected as one of seven regional finalists representing Oregon, "Hike, Fish & Go Camping Punch" proved to be the overall favorite, successfully incorporating Oregon's artisan distilled spirits and local ingredients to best represent the spirit and character of the entire state.

"With more than 20 craft distilleries across the state, Oregon is making its mark as the home for the most unique, original and flavorful artisan spirits," said Holly Macfee, director of brand strategy for Travel Oregon. "We poured through nearly 200 daring and delectable contest entries to select our seven finalists and the winning drink – and it was a tough job. Nearly all of the entries highlighted Oregon's bounty of spirits and fresh ingredients, and everyone's creativity showcased how much product diversity we have here."

The winning concoction, "Hike, Fish & Go Camping Punch," which represents the region of Eastern Oregon, is an easy, fun-loving punch that serves as a new cross between the youthful "Hop, Skip & Go Naked" and a classic Whiskey Sour. The recipe was submitted by Cheryl Meloy, a resident of Portland, and features Pendleton Whiskey, Terminal Gravity IPA and huckleberry syrup. Meloy won the grand prize package, which includes Nambé barware from Macy's and a two-night getaway to meet and taste with Oregon's artisan distillers at the Oregon Distillers Guild Spirits Tasting, Oct. 11, at McMenamins Edgefield in Troutdale.

All seven finalists earned a spot for their recipes in the Oregon Bounty Recipe Book. Complete descriptions and recipes are available by downloading the Oregon Bounty Recipe Book at www.TravelOregon.com/Bounty.


This contest is part of Oregon Bounty, the annual statewide promotion that celebrates the state's abundance with two months of unique travel experiences, fresh hop beer "Tastivals," artisan spirit events, fall harvest festivals and special overnight packages at historic inns and hotels, all designed to highlight Oregon's diverse and plentiful culinary landscape. In addition, more than 60 restaurants throughout the state will feature three-course prix fixe menus matched with Oregon wines, beers or spirits. The Oregon Bounty celebration runs Oct. 1 – Nov. 30 across the entire state.