As a mixologist, I’ve always been captivated by the skill and creativity required to craft the perfect cocktail. That’s why I was thrilled to hear about the Bacardi Cruise Competition: Bartender Battle for the Best Cocktail.
This annual event, sponsored by Porthole Cruise Magazine, brings together bartenders from the world of cruising to showcase their talent and create unique cocktails using Bacardi spirits. With over 2,500 entries received, the competition is fierce.
But only one bartender will take home the $5,000 cash prize and the chance to further their knowledge with a Bacardi experience. Let’s dive into the world of mixology and discover the finalists and their incredible creations.
Key Takeaways
- Over 2,500 entries were received for the Bacardi Cruise Competition Bartender of the Year.
- Porthole Cruise Magazine sponsors the competition, which is open to bartenders from the world of cruising.
- The five finalists were selected, and each created a cocktail inspired by their own travels using Bacardi spirits.
- The winner of the competition receives a $5,000 cash prize and a Bacardi experience selected to further their knowledge.
The Search for the Best Cocktail Begins
I’m excited to announce that the search for the best cocktail has officially begun in the Bacardi Cruise Competition.
This competition is a fantastic opportunity for bartenders from the global bartending community to showcase their skills and creativity. The competition aims to inspire cocktail innovation and celebrate the art of mixology.
Bartenders are encouraged to draw inspiration from their own travels and experiences, using Bacardi spirits to create unique and delicious cocktails.
With over 2,500 entries received, the competition is fierce. Five finalists have been selected to compete for the title of Bartender of the Year. These talented individuals have crafted cocktails that reflect their expertise and passion for their craft.
I can’t wait to see what they bring to the table!
Meet the Five Talented Finalists
Gerome Firmalo, a finalist in the Bacardi Cruise Competition, created a cocktail called Passion Blossom 13. This competition brings together bartenders from the world of cruising to showcase their skills and creativity. The five finalists have each crafted unique cocktails inspired by their own travels using Bacardi spirits. Let’s meet the talented finalists and learn more about their creations:
| Finalist | Bartender | Cocktail |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Richard Anderson | Scottish Spring – Made with DEWARS White Label, maple syrup, fresh root ginger, rhubarb bitters, fresh orange, and lime juice |
| 2 | Gerome Firmalo | Passion Blossom 13 – Made with BOMBAY SAPPHIRE and ST-GERMAIN, passion fruit syrup, cranberry juice, and lemon sour |
| 3 | Oleksandr Lurchenko | Nadia – Made with BACARDÍ Limon, ST-GERMAIN, MARTINI Prosecco, lime juice, fresh mint, and raspberries |
| 4 | Nilesh Patel | Blue Thai Curry – Made with BOMBAY SAPPHIRE and Blue Curacao, basil leaves, kaffir lime leaves, Thai ginger, lemon grass, coconut water, and simple syrup |
| 5 | Kenneth Tuason | Asti Flora – Made with GREY GOOSE La Poire, ST-GERMAIN, MARTINI Asti Spumante, fresh rose petals, and slices of lemon, pear, and apple |
These bartenders have truly showcased their skills and passion for mixology. Their cocktails are a reflection of their creativity and inspiration from their travels. The Bacardi Cruise Competition not only highlights their talent but also provides them with an opportunity to further their knowledge and gain recognition in the industry. Cheers to these talented bartenders and their unique creations!
Showcasing the Unique Cocktails in the Competition
Richard Anderson, one of the finalists in the Bacardi Cruise Competition, crafted a cocktail called Scottish Spring using DEWARS White Label, maple syrup, fresh root ginger, rhubarb bitters, fresh orange, and lime juice. His cocktail showcases his creativity and unique flavor combinations.
Richard is a bartender on Carnival Glory, and his passion for mixology shines through in his cocktail creation. The use of DEWARS White Label adds a smooth and rich flavor, while the maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness. The fresh root ginger and rhubarb bitters give the cocktail a hint of spice and complexity. The fresh orange and lime juice add a refreshing citrus note.
Richard’s cocktail is a perfect example of the innovative and delicious drinks that the bartenders in the competition have created.
Behind the Scenes of the Bacardi Cruise Competition
Witnessing the behind the scenes of the Bacardi Cruise Competition was an exciting opportunity to see the bartenders in action and learn about their creative process.
The competition process was rigorous, with over 2,500 entries received and only five finalists selected. Porthole Cruise Magazine sponsored the competition, attracting bartenders from the world of cruising to participate.
I had the chance to interview each finalist and hear about their inspiration for their cocktails. It was fascinating to see how their own travels influenced their creations, using Bacardi spirits as their base. The interviews revealed their passion for excellence in cocktail making and their understanding of their role in creating guest experiences.
Overall, the behind the scenes of the Bacardi Cruise Competition showcased the dedication and talent of these bartenders.
The Judges’ Tough Decision: Selecting the Winner
It was a difficult decision for the judges to select the winner of the Bacardi Cruise Competition. The judging criteria for this prestigious competition were based on creativity, presentation, taste, and the story behind the cocktail.
Each finalist had to create a unique cocktail inspired by their own travels using Bacardi spirits.
The impact of this competition goes beyond just finding the best bartender. It showcases the talent and skill of bartenders from the world of cruising and highlights their role in creating memorable guest experiences.
The winner of the competition not only receives a $5,000 cash prize but also gets the opportunity to further their knowledge through a Bacardi experience.
This competition truly recognizes the dedication and passion of bartenders and elevates their craft to new heights.
Celebrating the Champion of the Bacardi Cruise Competition
I’m thrilled to announce the champion of the Bacardi Cruise Competition. After much anticipation and fierce competition, the winner is Richard Anderson, a bartender on Carnival Glory. Richard’s cocktail, the Scottish Spring, impressed the judges with its unique combination of DEWARS White Label, maple syrup, fresh root ginger, rhubarb bitters, fresh orange, and lime juice. His achievement showcases the talent and creativity of bartenders in the Bacardi cruise industry.
Bartender achievements in this competition are truly remarkable. The finalists, Gerome Firmalo, Oleksandr Lurchenko, Nilesh Patel, and Kenneth Tuason, all demonstrated their skill and passion for mixology. Each of them crafted a cocktail that showcased their expertise and highlighted the flavors of Bacardi spirits.
The Bacardi Cruise Competition is a celebration of the bartending talent within the cruise industry. It provides a platform for bartenders to showcase their skills and creativity, while also promoting the Bacardi brand. This competition not only recognizes the achievements of the bartenders but also contributes to the overall guest experience on cruises.
Cheers to Richard Anderson and all the finalists for their incredible achievements in the Bacardi Cruise Competition.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Are the Finalists Selected for the Bacardi Cruise Competition Bartender of the Year?
The finalists for the Bacardi Cruise Competition Bartender of the Year are selected based on their cocktail creations and their ability to create exceptional guest experiences. The judging criteria include creativity, taste, and presentation.
What Are the Criteria That the Judges Use to Evaluate the Cocktails in the Competition?
Judging criteria for the cocktail evaluation in the competition involve taste, presentation, creativity, and use of Bacardi spirits. The judges assess the balance of flavors, visual appeal, unique ingredients, and how well the cocktail captures the essence of the bartender’s travels.
How Did Porthole Cruise Magazine Become the Sponsor of the Bacardi Cruise Competition?
Porthole Cruise Magazine became the sponsor of the Bacardi Cruise Competition through a partnership. Their sponsorship helps to promote the competition and showcase the talents of bartenders from the world of cruising.
What Are Some of the Challenges That the Bartenders Face in Creating Their Cocktails Inspired by Their Own Travels?
Creating cocktails inspired by personal travels presents challenges that require creativity. Balancing flavors, finding unique ingredients, and conveying a sense of place in a drink all contribute to the art of mixology.
How Does the Bacardi Experience Selected for the Winner Further Their Knowledge in Cocktail Making?
The Bacardi experience selected for the winner of the Bacardi Cruise Competition further advances their knowledge in cocktail making. It provides an opportunity to learn from experts, gain new insights, and enhance their skills in creating exceptional cocktails.
Claire, a creative soul with an unquenchable thirst for storytelling, is an integral part of the Voyager Info team. As a dedicated writer, she weaves captivating narratives that transport readers to enchanting cruise destinations and beyond.
Claire’s love affair with writing began at an early age when she discovered the magic of words and their ability to craft worlds and emotions. Her innate curiosity led her to explore various literary genres, but it was travel writing that truly captured her heart. Drawing inspiration from her own globetrotting adventures and encounters with diverse cultures, Claire embarked on a journey to become a travel writer par excellence.
