Shawn’s Country Coquito Triumphs at 2023 Coquito Festival

The 14th annual Coquito Festival, held at the bustling La Reine Chicken Shack, drew an enthusiastic crowd this past Saturday. The event, renowned for its celebration of the cherished holiday beverage, coquito, saw a flurry of activity, with eager attendees sampling various concoctions alongside the famed cuisine of the “Dutty Chicken” kitchen.

This year’s festival showcased fewer competitors, a point highlighted by judge Julius Jackson, who also observed a more pronounced variation in the quality of entries compared to the previous year’s closely contested event. Shawn’s Country Coquito, operated by Ms. Samuels, emerged as the clear favorite. After securing third place in 2022, her delectable, creamy coquito blend won over the masses this year, drawing a continuous stream of enthusiasts to her booth.

Ms. Samuels, a relative newcomer in the coquito competitive scene since 2018, has consistently excelled, reaching the podium in 2019 and again in 2022. Her ascent to the top position this year is a testament to her dedication and skill. Reflecting on her journey, Ms. Samuels shared, “Coquito is like beer; it’s a matter of taste.” This year, the judges’ tastes aligned with her unique recipe, much to her delight.

Mr. Jackson outlined that the essence of a superior coquito lies in the harmonious interplay of flavors – the foundational coconut notes, the decadent creaminess of condensed and evaporated milks, and the subtle spice accents. Achieving the right consistency is equally crucial, striking a balance between being neither too thick nor too watery.

Echoing these sentiments, Ms. Samuels emphasized her commitment to crafting a well-balanced coquito. She playfully noted, “I don’t make rum-quito,” focusing instead on a universally enjoyable coquito, customizable with additional rum if desired.

Beyond the competitive aspect, Ms. Samuels cherishes the festival’s social and cultural facets, often enjoying the music and dance between serving her coquito. She regards the event as more than a contest, but a joyful communal experience.

Ms. Samuels will continue to produce her celebrated coquito throughout the holiday season and is open to inquiries and orders at (340) 513-4722.

The festival also featured an array of entertainment, spotlighting both local and international acts, primarily focusing on Latin music, in a nod to St. Croix’s rich cultural heritage.