SLO County cocktail company named Good Food Awards finalist. Here’s which one
A San Luis Obispo County-based mixology company is conjuring up some of the best “truly good food” in the country.
That’s according to the Good Food Awards, a national competition that honors the most ethically and responsibly produced food items across the United States.
On Jan. 29, the contest announced its award finalists for 2026 — naming hundreds of food and drink companies across the nation,including Yes Cocktail Co. in Paso Robles.
The local business creates craft cocktail mixers, zero proof spirits, flavored simple syrups, garnishes and bitters.
It’s one of 65 companies across California whose products landed spots on the list of finalists.
“Just being recognized among other craft makers is a huge honor for us,” Yes Cocktail Co. co-owner Brandon Alpert told The Tribune.
Why is Paso Robles company a Good Food Awards finalist?
Yes Cocktail Co.’s seasonal gingerbread syrup was named a finalist in the Good Food Awards’ Elixirs category.
Alpert said the syrup is “one of the ones we’re most proud of,” due to its natural ingredients and cozy taste, composed of real ginger, cinnamon, molasses and cloves.
The seasonal syrup is meant for winter drinks and Christmastime cocktails such as old fashioneds, white Russians, hot chocolate and lattes.
“It adds bold, comforting flavor to every sip — whether you’re mixing up a holiday nightcap or simply sweetening your morning coffee,” Yes Cocktail Co. said on its website.
The gingerbread syrup is one of 16 elixirs nominated in the Good Food award category.
It’s not the first time the Paso Robles company has been noticed by the organization. In 2024, Yes Cocktail Co. won two Good Food Awards.
In 2025, USA Today readers voted Yes Cocktail Co. the best craft mixer brand in the nation.
Alpert attributed the company’s success to its natural recipes, rotating flavors and massive amount of variety, which ranges from blood orange and chili pepper mixers to cucumber jalapeno, lavender honey and hibiscus rose.
What are the Good Food Awards?
Hosted by the Good Food Foundation, the Good Food Awards honor the country’s most sustainable food producers each year.
Companies can nominate their own products, but are held to strict rules regarding food sourcing and responsible labor practices.
The organization released a partial list of 234 finalists that were chosen after judges completed blind tastings.
“Representing 40 states, these values-minded crafters are making good food while making a difference with products that are tasty, authentic and responsible,” the foundation said on its website.
The organization plans to release a full list of finalists in April. Winners for 2026 will be announced on June 28, according to the Good Food Foundation.
This story was originally published February 6, 2026 at 5:00 AM.
