SINGAPORE, 24 FEBRUARY 2022 – What started out in a cocktail competition became a popular day that is celebrated in the global bar industry. Toasting to the creativity and talents of those important people tending bars all across the globe, World Bartender Day pays tribute to individuals who have shaped the industry for future generations throughout history.
To show the love and appreciation for our advocates who are passionate about sharing their knowledge of spirits with people around the world, here are five incredible individuals who are making waves in their community. These bartenders run the gamut from industry-renowned professionals to the up-and-coming bar talents. From Singapore to Sydney, Shanghai, and Hong Kong to New Zealand, let’s take a look at what makes these bartenders and their signature serves exceptional.
Nicholas Edward Alexander, Head Bartender at Writers Bar, Singapore
With almost a decade of bartending experience at numerous prestigious bars and restaurants in New York City, Nicholas brings with him a wealth of knowledge and mastery to Writers Bar at Raffles Singapore.
His signature drink “Guilty Pleasure” is reminiscent of a 1950’s pitcher of Old Fashioned with muddled oranges and cherries but in an exceptional form. The rye brings spice to balance the fruit while the bourbon reminds him of his favourite dessert, the banana bread.
Lorenzo Antinori, Beverage Manager at Argo, Hong Kong
Lorenzo Antinori, the Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts group bar guru has over 10 years of experience in the F&B scene across Europe and Asia and masterminded the rise of several globally renowned bars. As a believer in experiential cocktails, he strives to create story-driven drinks through innovative techniques.
The Single Origin Negroni was inspired by his visit to Malaysia, where he saw a cocoa pod and thought how cool it would be to age a Negroni inside. There’s much to admire about this drink at Argo with such inventive ingredients and winning flavours.
Andrea Marseglia, Beverage Director at Teresa Bar, New Zealand
Meet Andrea Marseglia from New Zealand who has over a decade of international bar experience. With a focus on seasonality and foraging, it’s no wonder that this Aperitivo & Cocktail bar is an oasis of sustainable practices.
Not only does he enjoy making all sorts of cocktails, but the co-founder of Neighbourhood Foraging also enjoys using ingredients sourced locally. Inspired by the fauna on the way to Bluff Hill, Andrea foraged New Zealand’s native ingredients and infused them into bourbon to create an earthy taste while enhancing those caramel and coconut notes of the Ferrand Cognac. The result? A uniquely delicious Bluff Hill Sazerac.
Eason Guo, Head Bartender at The White Moth, Beijing
Recently crowned champion of Diplomatico Rum’s Artisans of Taste competition in China, Eason Guo perfected his craft to create this sustainable and impeccable cocktail. Leveraging two types of Diplomatico Rum with sour plum soup and plum bitters, Guo was able to obtain a more robust and well-rounded flavor in his signature Diplomático serve, Hao Ye.
The rich aroma of Diplomático Rum takes the Head Bartender of The White Moth back to the classic Beijing specialty – sour plum soup. Pushing the boundaries further by using up all parts of the coconut, we are presented with a memorable drink.
Hélène Bord, Bartender at Apollonia Bar, Sydney
Hélène Bord is a 1/3 oz Spanish, 1/3 oz French, 1/3 oz American who’s still figuring out ounces while in OZ. Little did she know when she made the move from Spain to Sydney for her studies that she would develop a love for hospitality. This young bartender’s current passion project is making cocktails that tantalise all senses and creating unforgettable experiences for her guests.
With Dirty Gimlets (her signature drink), she can make sure anyone visiting Sydney gets the perfect summer cocktail experience they deserve – not to mention one that embodies her passion for hospitality. Nothing shouts of a Mediterranean summer more than a refreshing citrus-forward cocktail with marinated olives.
Let us celebrate the unsung heroes that are tending bars all over the world. Given many recent challenges within the hospitality and bar industry, it is heartwarming to see the resilience and determination of this global community. These are passionate people who help each other, who are kind when it matters, and who rally together during tough times while delivering the highest quality of cocktails and experiences for their guests.
Show your love for the bartenders you know and love on World Bartender Day by giving them a special shout-out or even turning the tables around by buying them a drink.