It’s been spirits galore in Manchester these past two weeks, with rum, tequila and bourbon all making an appearance in our city.
Elements Eight Rum Master Class
Elements Eight rum came into town a few weeks back, hosting their rum master class to some of Manchester’s rum-loving bartenders. Hosted by global brand ambassador Andreas Redlefsen at The Liquorists #22Redbank, the full range of this St Lucian rum were presented alongside new addition Blackwells, whilst Andreas talked about everything to do with rum, Massimo Zitti created some stunning cocktails. Expect to quiz many a rum enthusiast if you catch the brands in your favourite tiki den!
Excelia Tequila at The Blue Pig
The same day also saw a master class for consumers in the form of Excellia tequila. With The Blue Pig as its setting, guys and girls were able to enjoy all three of the brands expressions, expertly handled by UK distributor Boutique Brands director Paul Pavli. There were also cocktails created by The Blue Pig’s own Bar Manager Adam and canapés from their Parisian deli to compliment the Excellia Blanco, Reposado and Añejo.
Wild Turkey in Manchester
Onto bourbon now, with a special guest coming from the United States in the form of Eddie Russell, the associate Master Distiller of Wild Turkey. Hosted in Room, UK Brand Ambassador Martin Taylor invited bartenders down to enjoy a master class from Eddie himself, talking about his role within the company, how the brand came about, and tasting his own creation – Wild Turkey 81. The launch of the Wild Turkey cocktail competition has got under way too, so expect some of Manchester’s finest bars try out some of their creations on yourselves!
G'Vine Cocktail Competition
Myself and G’Vine gin hosted a cocktail competition in Epernay last week as I set them the challenge to create a French Summer Serve. Unusually, the judges could not decide between our two winners Joey Butcher and Susie Wong, so decided they both should win! Joey went for his creation named Jazzy Jeff, which included both G’Vine Floraison and Nouaison, maraschino, ginger and lemongrass liqueur, chilli bitters and topped with Langlois sparkling wine. Susie opted for her cocktail named Divine, which had G’Vine Nouaison, rose water, poppy liqueur, pineapple and lemon juice, topped with strawberry lemonade and candyfloss. Both winners will have their respected cocktails as Epernays ‘Cocktail of the Month’, so pop down and enjoy what’s left of the summer!
Coming up in Manchester in the next few weeks involves many a gin master class at Room and The Liquorists, Liquorice bar have their 1party and Mullen Bartending will be launching a Manchester wide cocktail competition!
