Six top bartenders in Nairobi battled it out for one of Taste Awards 2015 coveted honours, The Absolut Mixologist of the Year Award, on Friday at the Zing Bar, dusitD2.
This year’s challenge was designed to test the efficiency, skill and creativity in a high-pressure context for each of the six contestants. Each finalist was required to make two cocktails; the first of their choosing. The second, and more exciting was a cocktail made from and inspired by our mystery box of ABSOLUT flavours including: Citron, Raspberri, Peppar and Mango along with Monin flavored syrups . Finalists were given 8 minutes to identify and create their unique cocktail using ONLY the ingredients presented.
The six finalists included:
Benu Kundra – Brew Bistro Bar & Lounge
Yeri Randu – Sankara Nairobi
Wilberforce Ochanda – Juniper Social
Luckman Oyebode – Caramel Restaurant & Lounge
Philip Gaza – Mercury Lounge at Urban Eatery
Dennis Olonyi- Dusit d2 nairobi
Judges for Taste Mixologist of the Year award comprised of a mix of Industry professionals who have the expertise in mixology and the spirits industry. Director at Garnish, Lauren Henderson, with 15 years of experience in the Wine & Spirits industry across the globe, Alex Kavita the Taste Awards 2013 Mixologist of the Year award winner brought his flare and prowess this time on the judging panel and Nelson Aseka, Prestige, PR and Brand Education Manager EA, at Pernod Ricard Kenya a connoisseur of luxury beverage brands.
The winner will be announced during Taste Awards 2015 gala evening on August 31, 2015 at the dusitD2 Hotel.