Melbourne bartender Alex Boon of Pearl Diver Cocktails & Oysters places third at the 2023 Patrón Perfectionists Cocktail Competition in Jalisco, Mexico.
The international competition took place from 24 – 30 March 2023, with 15 global finalists set three challenges to secure victory at Patrón HQ.
Mor Koral, the founder of Cocktail Kitchen in Tel Aviv, Israel, was the overall winner securing the most points across the challenges and impressing a stellar line-up of hospitality professionals, including Ivy Mix, LP O’Brien, Tara Fougner, Sandrae Lawrence, Haba Flores, chef Ana Martorell and previous Patrón Perfectionists global champions Giulia Cuccurullo and Harrison Kenney.
Boon did well to win the second of three challenges, called The Stories We Share, where competitors were asked to create a tequila-based cocktail using Patrón Silver, Reposado or Añejo that evoked elements of Mexican culture drawn from the country’s rich history and culture.
Inspired by an Aztec love story predating Romeo and Juliet, Boon created a cocktail based on the story of two ancient volcanos and their relationship to tequila. He said the opportunity to compete at Hacienda Patrón was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
“I am so incredibly thankful to Patrón for having me at the Hacienda. I met so many talented bartenders from across the world who each brought something unique to the Global Finals.
“This year the talent was on another level and I’m proud to have won the second challenge and finished within the top three,” said Boon.
First taking place in the UK in 2015, the Patrón Perfectionists competition has become a benchmark for bartenders across the globe wanting to have a chance to create a cocktail worthy of perfection.
Taking place on an international stage since 2016, the competition has gained increasing popularity over the years, with the competition attracting over 1,700 entries in 2021.
Stay up-to-date with the latest industry news with the Drinks Trade e-newsletter.
