Registrations for the Nikka Perfect Serve cocktail competition are now open to all Australian bartenders who have what it takes to compete on the global stage.
Applicants must show their creativity and understanding of the Nikka range by describing how they would pair their favourite Nikka Whisky with a non-alcoholic mixer. The pairing should enhance, harmonise or complete the chosen whisky.
Only 10 applicants will be selected to compete in the Australian Nikka Perfect Serve regional competition on Tuesday, July 4, 2023, with the winner to represent Australia at the global final in San Francisco at the end of the year, competing against the world's leading bartenders for the ultimate title.
The core principle of the Nikka Perfect Serve competition is based on the Japanese philosophy' ichi-go, ichi-e' – which translates to 'one chance, one encounter'.
Applications that highlight consumer experience will be looked upon favourably. Participants will be judged on the experience they create and scored across service, communication, and the quality of each drink prepared.
Marcus Parmenter, Brand Ambassador for Nikka Whisky, said: "We are so excited to be welcoming Nikka Perfect Serve back to Australia for the second year running. Australia is a hub for talented mixologists, and we encourage all bartenders to apply for a chance to show their skills in front of an expert panel of judges."
The competition will be run Omakase-style, which means 'I leave it to you'. Contestants will have 15 minutes to show their expert whisky pour and cocktail recommendation. The judges play the role of the guest and act out different scenarios to make it challenging for the bartender.
The global winner and runner-up will be awarded a trip to Japan to visit Nikka's distilleries and experience Tokyo's bar scene.
Registration closes on Sunday, June 11, 2023. Sign-up here.
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