Industry Experts To Select SA’s Best Bartender

Biggest names in world of food and drink to judge World Class national finals

Some of the biggest names in the food and drinks industry have been confirmed as judges for the Diageo Reserve World Class Bartender of the Year national finals, to be held in Johannesburg from July 14 to 16.

Rebecca Quiñonez, Pete Goffe-Wood, Brent Perremore and Chantelle Horn will have the daunting task of selecting who among South Africa’s top seven bartenders – chosen after three gruelling workshops held over the past six months – will represent the country in the World Class global finals, which will be hosted in Johannesburg and Cape Town in September.

Rebecca Quiñonez has worked with the world’s finest luxury spirits for over 12 years, currently serving as global brand ambassador for Ron Zacapa. She travels the world educating people about the taste and virtues of rum, working closely with top chefs and bartenders to cement the reputation of Ron Zacapa as the world’s finest tasting dark rum.

Even after 26 years as a chef, Pete Goffe-Wood’s creativity and energy have not diminished, and he remains resolutely passionate about food and culinary excellence. While his classical training has contributed to his cooking style, the veteran Masterchef SA judge does not shy from innovation – the national finalists will have to be especially daring in their drinks alchemy if they want to impress.

Brent Perremore earned his place on the judging panel through dedication and hard work – he is the two-time winner of South Africa’s World Class national finals. His knowledge of the craft and prior experience in the competition will bring a unique perspective to the judging panel.

Photographer and fine-drinking consultant Chantelle Horn was instrumental in launching World Class in South Africa. She is no stranger to the growing culture of mixology in the country – she has been at its forefront for many years, bringing luxury drinking experiences into the mainstream.

“The seven finalists represent the best of the best of South Africa’s bartending talent – they are craftsmen on par with any master chef. If anyone is up to the challenge of picking the country’s best bartender, it’s these four judges. Their combined experience is formidable, to say the least. In addition to local experts, we have international brand ambassador Rebecca Quiñonez – based in Miami – whose experience in the world of fine drinking will add an extra serving of insight to the decision-making process. Our bartenders are more than talented enough to compete on an international level, and Rebecca’s presence is testimony to the global interest in our finalists,” said Alex Farnell, National Reserve Brand Ambassador Manager.

In September, Johannesburg and Cape Town will welcome the best mixologists from 57 countries as they vie for the title of World Class Bartender of the Year 2015. Previous host cities have included the likes of Rio de Janeiro and London.

The Diageo Reserve World Class Bartender of the Year is the most prestigious event of its kind and aims to elevate the skill and craft of bartending and set global trends and standards in the service industry.

About Brandhouse:
Brandhouse Beverages (Pty) Ltd was formed on 1 July 2004 as a joint venture between Diageo, Heineken International and Namibia Breweries Ltd. It is South Africa’s leading premium drinks company with an unrivalled portfolio of brands across the spirits, beer and cider categories. These include Johnnie Walker, J&B, Smirnoff, Bell’s, Baileys, Jose Cuervo, Tanqueray, Captain Morgan, Amstel, Heineken, Windhoek, Foundry, and Guinness among others.

For more information about brandhouse, its people, and brands visit us at www.brandhouse.co.za.

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