'Pear Tree' martini named the best in the 'burbs

Wendy Trongale-Klebs of Moretti's Restaurant claimed the top prize in the Best Martini in the 'Burbs Challenge with her "The Pear Tree" creation during the Daily Herald-sponsored contest at Drink Nightclub in Schaumburg Monday night.

Trongale-Klebs has been a bartender for 27 years. She was awarded a martini glass trophy and a prize package that included gifts from sponsor Absolut vodka.

"This was completely unexpected," she said. "I've been in contests before at a bar, but none that involved alcohol."

Twelve finalists competed before five judges as the mixologists were scored on presentation and showmanship.