We have returned from a great few days, safe and sound back in SoCal. Here's a quick recap of my trip to Las Vegas for the 2011 Bombay Sapphire Most Inspired Bartender Search.
The nation wide competition started in 36 or so markets around the country with nearly 50 competitors winning their respective regions and moving on to the event in Las Vegas. Once there, we were broken up into groups of five and went through a photo shoot with GQ magazine. Then we were shuttled over to Caesar's to compete in the first stage, where we presented the same cocktail we won our respective markets with. That night, the judges deliberated on who to advance to the Top 10.
The next afternoon at The Madalay bay, we sat down for an amazing luncheon and a great presentation by the esteemed Tony Abou-Ganim. Following the luncheon, we went back to The Wynn to prepare for the night's final. All competitors gathered at an amazingly set up Club XS and anxiously awaited the announcement of the chosen 10. After two competitors were called, I heard my name! We were presented with a fun but very difficult format for the final. For those of you familiar with Iron Chef, it was very much the same. We were given a surprise ingredient, then given 12 minutes to conceive a cocktail inspired by our home towns.
The secret ingredient we were given was a brand new liquor called Bombay Sapphire East. I developed a take on a mule, calling my drink the Gateway to the East. The idea playing on the name of the gin as well as San Diego's position as a naval town that has been important in the Navy's presence in the south pacific and Asia. I incorporated yuzu, lemon bitters, fresh pressed oranges (to represent California), and of course the gin and ginger beer. It was an exciting but nerve-racking event for sure! The room was full of the best bartenders in the country and four very highly esteemed judges. And oh, then there were the high stakes! The winner was to receive the cover of a special Men-of-the-Year GQ edition, a spread, and a trip to London to represent the US in the world finals.
I did not quite make the Top 3, but I walked away very pleased to have made it as far as I did. I met many great bartenders and made some great contacts along the way. I heard a life changing and very inspiring talk by Tony Abou-Ganim, and most importantly, picked up some valuable experience on the National level. I'll be ready to head back next year and try to bring a title back to San Diego!
Cheers!
CS
CS
