Panamanian bartender Carlos Ferron from La Cuadra Market Bar has been crowned Global Champion in the Flor de Caña’s Sustainable Cocktail Challenge.
Representing Latin America, Ferron competed against the regional champions of Europe, North America and Asia Pacific to create unique, sustainable cocktails.
“It is an amazing honour to have been named ‘World’s Most Sustainable Bartender’ representing Latin America,” said Ferron. “It’s been a truly unforgettable experience. I thank everyone who supported me, especially Flor de Caña, who united us all under a motto: sustainability because being green is part of growing.”
Taking place under the backdrop of the tropical volcanic islands of Granada in Nicaragua, the finals were judged by some of the most influential industry personalities, such as Giacomo Gianotti, owner of Paradiso Bar in Barcelona (#1 of The World’s 50 Best Bars 2022); Alex Francis, Bar Manager of Little Red Door in France (2022 Most Sustainable Bar); Julio Cabrera, Owner of Café La Trova in Miami and 2019 Bartender of the Year; and Juliane Caillouette, Managing Director at Sustainable Restaurant Association in the UK.
Judging was based on the history and inspiration behind the cocktail, the use of sustainable ingredients/techniques and the level of creativity, not to mention its flavour and appearance. Ferron managed to impress the judges with his passion and skill and his sustainable cocktails “Talamanca” and “5 Generaciones”, both made with Flor de Caña 12 Year Rum and natural, home-made ingredients.
In addition to receiving the title of “Flor de Caña World’s Most Sustainable Bartender”, Ferron received the Global Champion trophy made from sustainable materials, a personalized bottle of Flor de Caña 25 Year Rum and a US$ 10,000 prize.
The other competitors were: Marco Pastanella from the USA (representing North America), Tom Mchugh from Australia (representing Asia Pacific) and Dimitris Kaitalidis from Greece (representing Europe).
For more information on Flor de Caña, go to flordecana.com