Los Angeles Bartender Nick Meyer Wins the Diplomático World Tournament U.S. Finals
By Chilled Magazine
Megan Bardoe of Oak Tavern in Miami took home the People’s Choice Award as well as a surprise trip to Venezuela.
Nick Meyer of Brilliantshine Santa Monica, was named the winner of the U.S. Finals of the Diplomático World Tournament, competing against five bartenders from across the country. Meyer will represent the U.S. at the Diplomático World Tournament Final, which will be held in April in Venezuela, home of Rum Diplomático. Representatives from 28 countries will compete for the title of Diplomático World Ambassador.
“Chimpin’ Aint Easy”
Created by Nick Meyer
Ingredients:
- 1/2 oz. Diplomático Anejo
- 3/4 oz. Diplomático Reserva Exclusiva
- 3/4 oz. Dolin Dry Vermouth
- 3/4 oz. Housemade Macadamia Piloncillo Syrup3/4 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 1/2 oz. Housemade Banana Phosphate
Served on crushed ice with a metal straw
Garnishes:
- Edible marigolds candied with banana dust
- Kona coffee grounds mixed with bitter chocolate shavings dusted on top
- Banana chips
The judging panel included esteemed spirits experts Dale DeGroff, aka King Cocktail, Leo Robitschek, beverage director at the NoMad Hotel, as well as Nick Nistico, the US representative in the 2013 World Tournament. The cocktail was judged across several categories including Presentation, Taste, Originality and Technique.
The U.S. Diplomático World Tournament qualifying rounds were held over the past 3 months in New York, Chicago, Boston, Los Angeles and Miami.
“I am humbled to have beat the best of the best in the country,” says Meyer. “I’ve met some great friends along the way and can’t wait to get to Venezuela and see the birthplace of Diplomático,” he added.
Megan Bardoe of Oak Tavern in Miami took home the People’s Choice Award as well as a surprise trip to Venezuela with her cocktail “Amor y Amargo” which was voted on by guests at a VIP Evening Cruise around Manhattan following the formal competition.
“I love what is happening in the craft bartending world!” says esteemed spirits expert and final competition judge, Dale DeGroff. “Yesterday Diplomático Rum brought together 6 top craft bartenders to compete to represent the United States in the World finals. Not only were the cocktails unusual and creative, several bartenders crafted their own syrups and tinctures to augment the subtle aromas and flavors of the rums,” he added.
Meyer will compete against bartenders from 28 countries in Venezuela at the Diplomático World Final in April.