The National Restaurant Association has crowned the winner of its Star of the Bar competition, a nationwide search by the National Restaurant Association for the country’s most creative mixologist. Nathan Greene of Las Vegas, Nev., competed against two other finalists at the Association’s “International Wine, Spirits & Beer Event”:http://www.winespiritsbeer.org’s (IWSB) After-Party at the Rockit Bar & Grill to win the title with his Bacardi Kiwi Berry Serenitea cocktail.

‘The creativity and mixology skills of our Star of the Bar competition finalists were clearly showcased at the IWSB After-Party,’ said David Gilbert, chief operating officer of the National Restaurant Association. ‘We congratulate Nathan for the style and flair of his presentation, creating a standout cocktail that was a delight to watch and taste.’

Six semi-finalists were selected from 90-second video submission on YouTubeâ„¢ in which they prepared their best signature cocktail—utilizing at least one Bacardi® product—along with an accompanying written recipe. The semi-finalists were flown to Chicago to mix, stir and shake their signature cocktail live at IWSB, held in conjunction with the NRA Show at Chicago’s McCormick Place.

IWSB attendees selected three finalists, who advanced to the final round of the competition at the official IWSB’s after-party at Rockit Bar & Grill this weekend.

Nathan Greene received a $5,000 cash prize, in addition to having his cocktail recipe and photo included in an upcoming edition of American Airlines’ American Way magazine. Nathan will also have his cocktail featured on the Rockit Bar & Grill menu until the end of June 2010.

Now in its third year, IWSB is held in a separate exhibit area of McCormick Place, and gathers brewers, vintners and distillers, leading beverage experts, and beverage alcohol buyers. The IWSB education sessions and exhibits take place in Grand Ballroom (McCormick Place South, Level 1).

Here is his youtube video that earned Nathan his Star award.