#Singapore #Flor de Caña #Jez Carreon #Sustainable Cocktail

Jez Carreon: The World's Most Sustainable Bartender

In a remarkable display of talent and environmental consciousness, Jez Carreon from Employees Only Bar in Singapore has been crowned the World's Most Sustainable Bartender. The prestigious title was awarded during the Global Final of the Sustainable Cocktail Challenge, held on February 27, 2025, in the breathtaking location of Granada, Nicaragua. This event brought together 18 elite mixologists from various countries including Mexico, the United States, Costa Rica, the United Kingdom, France, Spain, and Japan.

As the competition unfolded in an exotic tropical setting, these bartenders showcased their expertise in crafting cocktails while adhering to sustainable practices, reflecting Flor de Caña's dedication to environmental sustainability.

Jez Carreon triumphed over other talented competitors with his innovative cocktail named "Nicaragua is Calling." This creation not only tantalized the taste buds but also embodied a zero-waste philosophy. Crafted using local ingredients from Singapore, such as corn, coconut, and pineapple, the cocktail was enriched with Flor de Caña 12 Year Rum and uniquely presented in sustainable jicara cups alongside biodegradable coasters made from the cocktail's leftover materials. This conscious choice in presentation highlights the importance of sustainability in every aspect of cocktail crafting.

Upon receiving the award, Jez expressed his astonishment and pride, stating, "I feel amazing. What once seemed like a distant dream, something I never thought possible, has now become a reality. This is truly a career-defining moment. I've made my loved ones proud, and now I can finally say I am the best in the world at something."

The jury for the competition consisted of esteemed figures in the bartending industry, including Danil Nevsky, Patrick Pistolesi, Gina Barbachano, and Marcus Voglrieder. They evaluated the cocktails on various criteria, including taste, aroma, presentation, creativity, and adherence to sustainable practices. Following Jez’s impressive performance, Andrea Pagliarini from Paradiso Bar in Spain secured the second spot, with Simone Sacco from Piano35 Ristorante Bar in Italy taking third place.

The Sustainable Cocktail Challenge aims to celebrate and promote sustainable practices in the bartending industry, in line with Flor de Caña's principles. The brand stands out as the world’s first Carbon Neutral and Fair Trade certified rum, employing 100% renewable energy in its distillation process. Since 2005, the company has successfully planted over one million trees, highlighting its commitment to environmental stewardship.

With over 30 countries participating, the Sustainable Cocktail Challenge serves as a platform for bartenders to demonstrate their skills while embracing sustainability. The event not only showcases the talent of bartenders but also amplifies the importance of eco-friendly practices in the industry. Jez Carreon’s victory not only cements his reputation as a leading mixologist but also sets an inspiring example for others in the field, driving home the message that creativity and sustainability can go hand-in-hand.

As Jez Carreon embarks on this new chapter of his career, he hopes to inspire a new generation of bartenders to prioritize sustainability, reminding them that every cocktail can tell a story of taste and environmental consciousness.

Flor de Caña continues to lead the spirits industry in promoting and practicing sustainability, ensuring that the legacy of crafting fine rum is reflected not just in flavor but in a commitment to the planet. Their dedication to creating a better world through sustainable actions echoes through the achievements of bartenders like Jez Carreon, who are making waves across the globe.