Marriott's Clash of Mixologists Finale 2023: A Celebration of Talent at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives
Sunday 20th of August 2023
The stage is set for an electrifying celebration of mixology artistry as Marriott International proudly presents the grand finale of the Clash of Mixologists competition. This prestigious individual cocktail contest, aimed at elevating the vibrant Beverage Culture and unearthing hidden talents among associates from Marriott International managed hotels in Singapore, Malaysia, and the Maldives, is reaching its thrilling crescendo at none other than The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands.
In a remarkable partnership with renowned establishments 28 Hong Kong Street (Singapore), Junglebird (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia), and main event sponsor Malfy Gin, the Clash of Mixologists competition ignited tremendous enthusiasm and participation from mixologists across the region. From an initial group of 40 highly skilled contenders hailing from hotels and resorts in the three countries, six exceptional associates have emerged as finalists. These talented mixologists are poised to unveil their unique mixology prowess in the competition's grand finale.
The finalists' selection was a culmination of their innovative cocktail creations, each with a distinctive narrative and recipe. This selection process was determined through a blend of judges' evaluations and an engaging internal social media contest. Let's meet the remarkable mixologists representing some of the finest Marriott International hotels in the region:
• Beril Elmas Özüerler – The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
• Daniel Thomas Stanislas – The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort
• Carman Lee – The Westin Singapore
• Karan Vanker – W Singapore – Sentosa Cove
• Eliza Tan – Four Points by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown
• Jeffri Sulaiman – The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur
The grand finale, scheduled at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, promises an illustrious judging panel comprising industry experts. Divyesh Chauhan, Owner of JungleBird, Kuala Lumpur – Ranked 35th in Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2022, and Lukas Kaufmann – Operations Manager of 28 HongKong Street, Singapore – Ranked 24th in Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2023, will lend their discerning palates to the event. A representative from MMI Maldives, a premium beverage supplier, and Anuj Sharma, Area Director of Operations, Marriott International, Singapore & Maldives, will also grace the panel.
The finalists' cocktails will undergo meticulous evaluation based on diverse criteria, encompassing authenticity, execution, appearance, taste, aroma, and originality. Prizes await the winners, with all finalists receiving an artisanal Cocktail Kit and a Cocktail Journal, along with a certificate of recognition for their remarkable achievements. Furthermore, Marriott International aims to provide the champions with opportunities for participation in international competitions, extending their exposure on a global platform.
The participating hotels are equally excited, as they feature their bartenders' creations at their bars for guests to savor and experience. "Clash of Mixologists exemplifies our commitment to nurturing talent within the beverage culture and reinforces Marriott's dedication to delivering exceptional experiences to our guests worldwide," highlighted Anuj Sharma, Area Director of Operations, Marriott International, Singapore & Maldives.
Malfy Gin, the principal sponsor of the competition, stands firmly committed to supporting emerging mixology talent, underscoring this dedication through its partnership with Marriott International. This collaboration seeks to foster creativity and innovation within the beverage industry.
The grand finale, set for September 8, 2023, at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, will witness the six finalists dazzling with their mixology skills. The Clash of Mixologists competition stands as a testament to Marriott International's dedication to nurturing talent and propelling the art of mixology in the region. This all-inclusive competition has undoubtedly created a prestigious platform for promising talents to shine on an international stage.