Flamingle 2026: A Celebration of North Carolina Spirits, Creativity, and Community

There are cocktail events, and then there is Flamingle.

On June 18, 2026, guests gathered at the historic McNinch House Restaurant in Charlotte, North Carolina, for the 4th Annual Flamingle…a one-of-a-kind experience that combined handcrafted drinks, local spirits, culinary excellence, and plenty of flamingo-inspired fun.

This year's event embraced a new theme: showcasing the incredible distilleries and spirits being produced right here in North Carolina. Featuring a selection of locally crafted spirits, Flamingle 2026 celebrated the passion, innovation, and exceptional quality that define the state's growing craft distilling community.

Three Signature Cocktails. One Memorable Evening.

Guests were treated to three original cocktails created exclusively for the event, each featuring a North Carolina spirit and its own unique personality.

The Flamingo Breeze

A tropical-inspired cocktail featuring Muddy River’s 2-Year Rum and Coconut Rum, pineapple juice, coconut cream, and topped with coconut-pineapple selzter. Smooth, refreshing, and perfectly balanced, it quickly became a guest favorite and embodied the fun, relaxed spirit of Flamingle.

Sapphire Spritz

Made with 1000 Piers Blueberry Gin, St Germain, blueberry-pomegranate green tea, blueberry juice, simple syrup, and topped with seltzer, this elegant cocktail delivered beautiful color, bright flavor, and a touch of sophistication. It proved that a cocktail can be both visually stunning and incredibly approachable.

Sunset Soirée

Crafted with Sup Crush Orange vodka, limoncello, St Germain, peach juice, and lemon juice, this cocktail captured the colors of a Carolina sunset while balancing juicy fruit flavors with crisp brightness.

Celebrating North Carolina's Craft Spirit Industry

One of the goals of Flamingle 2026 was to shine a spotlight on the outstanding spirits being produced throughout North Carolina and the Southeast.

The event featured spirits from local and regional producers whose commitment to quality and innovation continues to elevate the craft cocktail scene. By building each signature cocktail around a carefully selected spirit, guests were able to experience how premium ingredients can transform a drink from ordinary to unforgettable.

An Evening of Great Food and Great Company

As always, the beautiful setting of the McNinch House provided the perfect backdrop for the evening. Guests enjoyed expertly prepared cuisine, lively conversation, and the opportunity to discover new cocktails while connecting with fellow food and beverage enthusiasts.

What makes Flamingle special is not just the drinks…it's the people. Friends, cocktail lovers, and newcomers alike gathered to share stories, laugh, and create memories while supporting local hospitality and craft beverage producers.

Looking Back, and Ahead

Each year, Flamingle continues to evolve, and 2026 may have been the most exciting event yet. From the vibrant cocktails to the focus on North Carolina spirits, the evening showcased how creative mixology can bring people together and celebrate local craftsmanship.

A huge thank you goes out to everyone who attended, supported the event, and helped make Flamingle 2026 such a success.

Until next year, keep exploring new flavors, supporting local producers, and finding reasons to raise a glass with friends.

Cheers!

— Sir Shaker