The five finalists in the 2015 Bacardi Cruise Competition
Bartender of the Year have been announced, with more than 2,500 entries
received. Now in its 10th year, the competition recognises the best bartender
in the global cruise/ferry industry. This year’s winner will be chosen on
20 March 2015 in Miami. Participants had to create their own cocktail recipes
inspired by their travels, using at least one spirit from the Bacardi portfolio.
The five finalists (in alphabetical order) are:
Richard Anderson, bartender on Carnival Glory, for “Scottish Spring”: A
long muddled drink inspired by a cool evening at sea with friends, Scottish
Spring features Dewar’s White Label, maple syrup, fresh root ginger, rhubarb
bitters fresh orange and lime juice.
 |
| Asti Flora cocktail, created by Kenneth Tuason |
Gerome Firmalo, bartender on Holland America MS's Oosterdam, for
“Passion Blossom 13”: This classic martini cocktail stars Bombay Sapphire and St-Germain
with passion fruit syrup, cranberry juice and lemon sour. The combination
provides a distinctive floral flavour of both botanicals and elderflower, which
balances with the passion fruit.
Oleksandr Lurchenko, bartender on Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas, for “Nadia”: This recipe features Bacardi Limon, St-Germain, Martini Prosecco, lime
juice, fresh mint and raspberries, and personifies Lurchenko’s hope for a more
peaceful life for his fellow Ukrainians.
Exotic mélange
Nilesh Patel, bartender on Carnival Sensation, for “Blue Thai Curry”: A
self-proclaimed “liquid chef”, Patel takes inspiration from his culinary
colleagues and has brought together an exotic mélange of Bombay Sapphire and
Blue Curacao, spiced up with basil leaves, kaffir lime leaves, Thai ginger,
lemon grass, coconut water and simple syrup.
Kenneth Tuason, bartender on Holland America MS's Maasdam, for “Asti Flora”: Inspired by Sangria, Asti Flora is a refreshing mix of Grey Goose
La Poire, St-Germain and Martini Asti Spumante garnished with fresh rose petals
and slices of lemon, pear and apple.
Zachary Sulkes, regional manager Bacardi Travel Retail
Americas, said: “Each time I visit a ship I witness inspiring examples of the
passion this community has for excellence in cocktail making. The five finalists we have shortlisted are
prime examples of individuals who understand the importance of their role in
creating amazing guest experiences.”
The winner will receive $5,000 and a Bacardi
experience that will further their craft.
