MARGARET CHISANGA
Lusaka
GLOBAL alcohol beverage giant Diageo last Monday hosted a special competition that saw the Top 10 Mix-off contenders battle it out as they presented in a race focussed on time management, flair and focus.
This is the second round after the first Bartender Competition that had 20 participants, with some representing some of Zambia’s well known entertainment centres,who made unique cocktails which highlighted their creativity and a taste for exquisite flavours.
The top ten vibrant contestants showcased their talents in a rigorous challenge, mixing, shaking and stirring in an exhilarating series that had the audience debating who among them would be best, as they all presented with confidence.
Each contestant presented with skill, creativity and flair, pitting their mastery of cocktail concoctions against one another.
Diageo is pouring fresh investment into highlighting the sophistication of Tanqueray as the theme for the Top 10 was ‘Tanqueray speed challenge’. The contestants had to mix 6 different coctails in 5 minutes, in a showcase of intricate layering of ingredients and theatrical presentation of the finished productDiageo Senior Reserve Brand
Ambassador Joyce Mealyn said the competition was held to ensure all bartenders acquire essential service skills to keep any business afloat.
“These skills are crucial in a bar as they form the foundation of a positive customer experience and contribute to the overall success of any venue,” she said in an interview.
She emphasized the importance of skill, precision, imagination, and dedication in achieving success in this highly competitive arena.
All competitors had taken part in the bar tender training offered by Diageolast year.
Ms Mealyn said the training, offered online for ease of access to participants, was important because it provides learners with skill of international standards, enabling those who finish to work both locally and on the international scene.
Ms Mealyn said the company was committed to invest in the training of bartenders behind growing the brand in Zambia.
“The competition celebrates the remarkable talent within our local bartending community and offers these skilled individuals a chance to showcase their abilities on a national level.” She said.
Ms Mealyn said the first winner would walk away with about US$2,000 worth of prize, the second winner would get a mobile bar to start a business and the last winner would walk away with a bar kit.
She said the first winner would further attend a training in South Africa and have an opportunity to work besides professional in the industry at one of the best restaurants in that country.
Trainers get to learn the basic bar tools in key areas such:
Hygiene & Safety – Maintaining a high standard of hygiene and safety is a non-negotiable, it ensures that the drinks and food served to customers are safe to consume, protecting the well-being of patrons. A pristine, clean and well-maintained bar inspires confidence in customers and will improve the bar’s reputation.
Product Knowledge – A knowledgeable staff also exude confidence and credibility, building trust when guests have specific preferences or dietary restrictions. Product knowledge encompasses a wide range of information including spirits, wines, beers, ingredients, preparation, and service.
Responsible Service of Alcohol – Putting priority onto responsible service of alcohol is not just a legal obligation but also an ethical and practical necessity. By monitoring and limiting alcohol consumption, bars help reduce the risk of alcohol-related incidents.
With the ability to recognise the signs of overindulgence and managing service to prevent guests from becoming excessively intoxication, staff plays a big part to maintain a safe and pleasant environment for guests, and staff.
Three judges, Emmanuel Ngoma, Liam Gustafson and Mealyn Joyce oversaw “The Top Ten Challenge”.
Diageo is a company that is in beverage alcohol business with a collection of brands in the spirits, beer and wine categories which include Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, J&B, Buchanan’s and Windsor whiskies; Smirnoff, Cîroc, and Ketel One vodka; Captain Morgan, Baileys, Tanqueray, and Guinness.
