Last week 21 bartenders from around the world descended on Hacienda Patrón in Mexico to battle it out for the 2020 Patrón Perfectionists Cocktail Competition title.
One of those was Anneliese Grazioli of Hot Tamale in Darwin, and while she made it into the top seven showdown, Grazioli was pipped to the title by Giulia Cuccurullo of Artesian Bar in London.
The competition challenges bartenders to create a Patrón cocktail which “embodies the traits of a true Perfectionist: care and dedication, attention to detail, creativity and flair and an ability to showcase their mixology skills through a rich and compelling story”.
Cuccurullo’s innovative The Bridge cocktail secured her a place as one of the top seven in the Grand Final the following day, where she was joined by fellow finalists Tobias Linder of Jigger & Spoon, Germany; Jared Schmidt of Orchard Room, Canada; Jason Hussien Ali of The Peak, Philippines; Sarah Turbett of Oak Standby, USA; Willy Park of Alice Cheongdam, South Korea and Australia’s Grazioli.
Speaking on her triumph, Cuccurullo said: “This entire competition has been a journey I will never forget. I am in awe of all my fellow contestants and the incredible skills that they have showcased throughout the whole competition.
“I feel honoured to be chosen as the Global Winner with a cocktail that brings together my home away from home, the UK, my origin, Italy, and Mexico, the birthplace of Patrón. My cocktail, The Bridge, represents personal stories and bonds and I cannot wait to continue building connections with the help of Patrón Tequila.”
Giulia’s winning cocktail, The Bridge, is a combination of Patrón Silver tequila, Rhubarb Cordial, fortified wine blend, tomato water and a dash of salt solution.
Matthew Sykes, Senior Director, Global Marketing at Patrón Spirits, Bacardi Global Brands added: “Every year the bar has been lifted, with some incredible creations and stories that have blown away the judges all around the world – this year is no exception. I am consistently impressed by the innovative ways every contestant manages to truly encapsulate the core values of a Perfectionist, all while creating some simply perfect cocktails.
“The community that we have built across the past five years is the greatest testament to this program. We are exceptionally pleased to crown Giulia Cuccurullo as this year’s Global Winner and she will have made their family, friends and colleagues back in their home country undoubtedly proud. 2020 and beyond will certainly be a journey for Giulia and I cannot wait to see what she will accomplish while continuing the Perfectionists path in the UK and around the world.”
See images from the finals below: