The Sandbar in Scarborough has defended its crown, winning WA’s best cocktail title for a second straight year at the Australian Hotels Association Hospitality Expo.

Its cocktail, Don Ruby, described as capturing “the soft romance of autumn by the coast”, was named this year’s winner after a live mix-off between four of the State’s top hospitality venues at Crown Perth on Tuesday.

In front of a packed crowd, bar manager Marina Vidal recreated Don Ruby live on stage to secure the title in a competition celebrating skill and innovation behind the bar.

The winning drink combines Don Julio tequila, dry vermouth, rhubarb syrup and shrub, creating a balance of sweet and tart flavours.

The other finalists were Cable Beach House in Broome with its Outback Margarita, Exchange Hotel in Pinjarra with Crimson Murray, and Lucky Chan’s in Northbridge with Con El Frutero.

A judging panel of four scored each cocktail out of 100 based on taste, visual appeal, creativity, narrative and promotion.

AHA (WA) chief executive Bradley Woods said the competition showcased the talent and innovation on display in hospitality venues across WA.

“Cocktail culture in Western Australia continues to evolve and flourish, with venues constantly pushing the boundaries of flavour, presentation and originality,” Mr Woods said.

“This year’s finalists demonstrated just how much talent exists across our industry, and Don Ruby by The Sandbar Scarborough Beach proved to be a worthy winner in a highly competitive field.”

The Sandbar won last year’s title with its cocktail, Matcha Made in Heaven.