#USA #New York City #Riunite #Lambrusco #Speed Rack

Riunite Partners with the 2026 Speed Rack Competition

Riunite, the celebrated Italian wine brand, has announced its sponsorship of the 2026 Speed Rack competition, a vibrant event celebrating female bartenders across the nation. This partnership not only embraces the growing role of wine in modern mixology but also showcases Riunite's commitment to supporting innovative cocktail culture while contributing to breast cancer awareness.

The Essence of the Partnership

As modern bartending evolves, wine has begun to claim an important place behind the bar. Riunite, known for its lively Lambrusco, is stepping up to align with the competitive spirit of Speed Rack—a series founded by industry veterans Lynnette Marrero and Ivy Mix. Having entered its 14th season, the event is designed specifically to showcase female-identifying bartenders while raising crucial funds for breast cancer education, prevention, and research. Over its history, Speed Rack has successfully raised more than $1.85 million, and aims to exceed this figure to hit the $2 million mark in its current season.

Chairing the event are industry icons who recognize the potential of drinks made with effervescent wines like Lambrusco. Jacques Bezuidenhout, from Liquid Productions, emphasizes how Riunite Lambrusco can be a bartender's secret weapon, offering instantaneous refreshment with its vibrant effervescence and fruit-forward flavors. This dynamic partnership aims to reinforce wine’s versatility, showcasing its ability to enhance both classic and contemporary cocktails.

Crafting Unique Cocktails

Attendees of the Speed Rack events will have the opportunity to taste Riunite Lambrusco alongside other offerings like Riunite Zero and Maschio Prosecco. Additionally, they can experience signature cocktails, including the inventive Paloma di Modena and the refreshing Riunite Spritz. These drinks highlight the concept of using wine in creative ways, raising awareness about how it can elevate bartending experiences.

Competition Details

The Speed Rack competition is designed to be a high-energy test of bartending skills, where participants will compete in speed, precision, and mastery under the watchful eyes of judges. Each event promises a blend of excitement and craft as bartenders race against the clock to execute popular cocktails perfectly, evaluated on taste, accuracy, and presentation. Regional winners will move on to the National Finals, set to occur during the renowned Tales of the Cocktail festival in New Orleans.

Regional competitions will unfold across several cities, including:

• - Denver, CO – February 9, 2026
• - Chicago, IL – February 23, 2026
• - New York City, NY – March 9, 2026
• - Washington, D.C. – March 16, 2026
• - Boston, MA – March 30, 2026
• - Seattle, WA – April 19, 2026 (kicking off Seattle Cocktail Week)
• - Finals in New Orleans, LA – July 19, 2026

Tickets for these exciting competitions are available for purchase at Speed Rack's official website.

About Riunite

Founded in 1950, Riunite has its roots in the Reggio Emilia province of Italy, derived from a coalition of nine co-op wineries. With a commitment to quality and sustainability, Riunite produces a diverse range of wines. The company is particularly noted for its Lambrusco, created without added sugars, appealing to those who enjoy a naturally sweet profile in their wine.

In every bottle, Riunite invites wine lovers to savor Italian craftsmanship, showcasing their dedication to excellence and innovation in the industry.

About Speed Rack

Speed Rack is an exclusive competition dedicated to women and femme bartenders, designed to highlight emerging talent while supporting those impacted by breast cancer. As competitive as it is philanthropic, the event has raised significant funds for breast cancer research and awareness. For further details, visit the Speed Rack website.

Through this partnership with Speed Rack, Riunite is solidifying its presence within the mixology realm, emphasizing both community support and the uplifting power of wine in crafting cocktails. As the competition unfolds, it promises to be a thrilling blend of talent, camaraderie, and creativity.