On Monday evening The Perfect Blend New Zealand final was held at REC Bar in Auckland. Hospitality industry professionals came in their droves, to witness eleven (11) of New Zealand’s finest bartenders battle it out at the last of the six (6) state finals across the Oceania region.
You’ve seen all the stats, read how the comp works so here is who won!
Sarah Wood, in her first ever competition that she has competed in, takes title for the Apprentice Category.
Sarah’s performance was faultless as she mesmerized the audience with a hypnotic story of how her cocktail came to fruition with every word paying homage to her Scottish heritage.
With Ray Letoa, delivering an impeccable performance of ‘the Rayway!’, impressing the judges, and earning the title of the Professional Category Winner .
Both winners will proceed to the National final held at a secret location in May with 10 other State Final Category winners.
Here are the winning recipes…
Apprentice Winner
Sarah Wood, Coming Home
- 30ml Auchentoshan Three Wood
- 20ml Bowmore 12 YR Old
- 5mls Banana bread infused rum
- Star of anise infused Scottish tablet
BlazeServe in a Brandy Balloon.
Professional Winner
Ray Letoa, Simpsons Smile
45mls Jim Beam White Label
2 Dashes Angostura bitters
2 Dashes Orange bitters
60mls Earl grey tea
10mls Sweet vermouth
Then get a little creative and serve it the ‘ray way!’
Combine all ingredients hot and Immerse tea-infused ball with grade five dry ice.
Old Fashioned/rocks glass, orange zest to garnish.