Entries are open for the 2019 Australian Gin Cocktail Cup, the independent competition founded by the Australian Gin Distillers Association in conjunction with leading bar owner Mikey Enright.
From today Bartenders can register for the Cup’s Open Day, which takes place at the Barber Shop over next Monday and Tuesday. At the open day bartenders will be able to pick a bottle of Australian gin as well as a selection of five tonic waters, which come from The Artisan Drinks Company.
Speaking about this year’s Cup, Competition Chairman, Enright, said: “The CEO of the Australian Gin Distillers Association Judith Kennedy AM invited me to Chair ‘The Australian Gin Cocktail Cup’ in 2018 and now 2019. I feel it’s a great initiative to have an independent Gin focused cocktail competition.
“Bartenders notified and chosen as finalists will be given a choice from 70+ Australian gin brands (most brands will be taking part in the Sydney Gin Palooza) to choose for their cocktail recipe. So this competition will not only give some independence to the bartender but also potentially create more awareness of the Australian Gin market.
“This year we have partnered with Artisan Drinks Co as the official mixer sponsor. The new premium mixer that is now available in Australia and launched in the UK in 2018. The range has a Classic London, Skinny London (low cal), Violet Blossom, Agave Lemon & Pink Citrus Tonics.”
The competition presents a slightly different challenge for bartenders as there is only one gin brand per bartender or cocktail, so if they miss out at the open day it could mean a re-think. The competition also requires bartenders to use Australian gin as the only spirit and it is mandatory to include an Australian native botanical, either in the gin itself or as an addition to the cocktail.
After the open day bartenders have until Monday 30 September to submit a video of the cocktail making process alongside a written recipe. The three judges, comprising Jason Crawley, Andy Penny and last year’s winner Giacomo Franceschi will assess the entries and the top six finalists will be announced on Friday 4 October, with the final due to take place on Monday 14 October.
The winner’s prize is a two night weekend at the luxurious Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley Resort in the Blue Mountains. The prize includes ‘fully inclusive’ food and beverage, accommodation with private pool, activities and car hire.
Head to the Australian Gin Awards website to register your interest.