World Class Cocktail Competition at Oyster Box Hotel

Mixology Event that took place at the Oyster box Hotel on Wednesday 28th September 2011
Competition Mechanic
Five of the 5-Star Hotels in KZN sent 2 of their best bartenders to compete against each other in a very premium classic cocktail competition. The 10 contestants had to make 2 identical cocktails containing one or more of the Brandhouse Reserve Brands in 5 minutes to win the judges vote. The Drinks were judged on aroma, taste, efficiency, appearance, originality and brand relevance. The Judging panel consisted of 5 FNB managers (1 from each of the hotels).
The Hotels that participated were:
- The Fairmont Hotel in Zimbali
- The Hilton Hotel
- The Oyster Box Hotel
- The Elangeni Hotel
- The Sibiya Hotel
Upon arrival, each guest received a complementary welcome cocktail (Strawberry Caipirovska containing Smirnoff Black) and snacks were provided throughout the evening.
The Sponsored brands were:
- Ciroc Vodka
- Tanqueray No.Ten Gin
- Smirnoff Black Vodka
- Don Julio Tequila
The Winner was Calvin Foyle – Bartender from the Fairmont Hotel in Zimbali Resort.
His winning cocktail was called “Tanq-kiwi” and contained:
- 50ml Tanqueray No.Ten
- 12.5ml Cointreau
- 4 fresh Kiwi wedges
- 12.5ml Sugar Syrup
- 2 stalks of fresh thyme
- Orange Zest
Glass: Martini
Garnish: Kiwi & Thyme
Method: Shake n fine strain
Calvin won himself a R1000 gateway shopping vouchers, Bottle of Ciroc Vodka, Mixology Kit, Earphones and the Floating Trophy which will be engraved and kept in his outlet Bar until next year!
This was an extremely successful event which is adding to the build up to the Diageo World Class Program which the Mixologists of Brandhouse Beverages will be launching in January 2012 in South Africa. These kinds of events are very beneficial to the outlet and to the bartender. Not only are we showcasing deluxe brands, but we are also developing the cocktail culture within the industry.

