A total of 152 bartenders from across the country entered this year’s Patron Perfectionists competition, with the most innovative cocktails and their makers ascending to the final round.
The Hometown Hero entry challenge saw bartenders create a cocktail using Patron Silver tequila as well as ingredients from a pre-selected list of options.
Judges assessed the drinks based on appeal, appearance, inspiration and originality, choosing the best of the best to progress to the final round.
“We were blown away with the quality of entries,” says Patron’s Execution Manager Joey Chisholm.
“Following two long days of judging, the top 10 were selected and I believe it’s the strongest field of bartenders Australia has seen. We are excited by a great mix of old dogs and exciting young rookies.”
The finalists include:
Alex Boon, Pearl Diver Cocktails & Oyster in Melbourne, ‘Frankie’
Andie Bulley, Savile Row in Brisbane, ‘Koumala’
Bec Bayley, Before + After in Brisbane, ‘Folktale’
Chris Tilley, Neon Palms & Volare Bar in Perth, ‘Hyding In The Gums’
Etien Celzner, Rude Boy in Hobart, ‘K.I.S.S’
Haadee Bahar, Mimi’s & Will’s in Sydney, ‘Silver Lining’
Kayla Reid, Nick & Nora’s in Melbourne, ‘Delicate Duality’
Martin McConnell, Frogs Hollow Saloon in Brisbane, ‘Petrichor’
Storm Evans, Cantina OK! in Sydney, ‘A1’
Talis Heggart, Shotgun Willie’s & Memphis Slim’s House of Blues in Adelaide, ‘Abuela Margaret’
The competitors will progress to the grand final held in Sydney, presenting their original cocktail as well as participating in a challenge to secure the win.
Australia’s top bartender will travel to Mexico in March 2023 to represent the country against 18 global competitors.