Women show sharp skills in mixology test

The women took the lead following the first wave of the local leg of Diageo Reserve World Class Bartender of the Year, the world’s largest and most credible mixology competition, recently held at Paprika Restaurant, in St Clair, Port-of-Spain.

Following an intense two days of training with the Diageo regional brand ambassador, Paulo Figueiredo, at the recently opened Paprika Restaurant in Port-of-Spain, 20 of this country’s best bartenders, were challenged to present their mixology skills to the judging panel.

Tia Hutchings from Towne Restaurant and Bar emerged as the winner with her Retro Chic Menu with cocktails Blueberry Spark made with Ciroc Vodka, Watermelon Margarita followed by Tequila don Julio and Dancing Queen made with Ketel One Vodka. 

Richard Atkins of Zanzibar copped second place, followed by Karlina Permell representing Hilton Trinidad Hotel and Conference Centre in third place. 

A release from the organisers said scores from this challenge will go towards selecting the local representative to the 2013 Global Final in which over 50 bartenders from around the world will compete for the coveted title of Diageo Reserve World Class Bartender of the Year, which will take place aboard boutique Azamara Club Cruise’s ship, Azamara Journey, from July 4-9. 

“The judging panel was thoroughly impressed with the level of competition, the cocktails were well presented and the contenders carefully communicated the details of the brands incorporated as well as the ever important issue of Responsible Drinking,” said Paulo Figueiredo, lead judge.

“We can see that this will be another keenly contested year of competition” he continued. 

The next wave of the competition will be held in April where the focus will be on the understanding of Tiki culture, tropical ingredients and next-generation tropical drinks featuring the brand Zacapa with a visit by the regional brand ambassador Mario Navarro.

Follow the competition on Facebook at the ‘Global WORLD CLASS Finals’ page: www.facebook.com/globalworldclassfinals and www.facebook.com/worldclasstandt