Diageo Reserve World Class, the industry’s most prestigious and respected mixology competition, is proud to announce the four finalists to represent Malaysia in Bangkok at the Southeast Asia Finals in August 2015.
They are (in no particular order);
Shawn Chong of Omakase+Appreciate with “Siamese Link”, a spicy-savoury cocktail made with Haig Club, Siamese Paprika Syrup and Lime Juice garnished with Pandan Jelly.
M. Hanafi of Prego, The Westin with “Brooklyn”, made with Haig Club, Wasabi Powder, Caramelised Longan syrup topped with Dry Ginger garnished with a Longan.
Osmund Illah of Hubba Hubba with “Fame Bird”, a mix of Haig Club, Campari, Salted Caramel syrup, Lime Juice and Fresh Pineapple juice garnished with Orange and Lemon Zest.
Insan Sharily of Tate, The Intermark with “Haig Club Tango”, an intricate marriage of Haig Club, Solerno, Borlesque Bitter, Grapefruit Juice, Grapefruit peel infused Sugar syrup, Egg white and Peychaud Bitters garnished with a Cherry and Grapefruit twist.
This Haig Club Pop Up Bar Challenge, marked the finale of the Malaysian qualifier, of what was a three-series competition that began at Zeta Bar, KL Hilton and Hyde at 53m in April and May 2015 respectively. This also marks the beginning of the journey to the Regional Finals in Bangkok and Global Finals in Cape Town, South Africa.
The Global Finals will see more than 50 of the best bartenders in the world showcase innovative cocktails and compete in a series of unique and unparalleled challenges to be named World Class™ Global Bartender of the Year 2015.
“The Diageo Reserve World Class programme searches across Malaysia for its most talented bartenders, and hidden gems with great potential in a bid to nurture their talents at a global standard. This allows them the unique opportunity to celebrate their skills and compete on a wider platform” said Mr Kenny Fernandez, Assistant Brand Manager, Diageo Reserve brands.
Adding to the vibe on the night with craft cocktails to the delight of guests, were guest bartenders, Malaysian Champion for Diageo Reserve World Class 2014, Leow YinYing and award winning bartender Angel Ng Ji.
Follow the competition on Facebook at the ‘Global World Class Finals’ page.