Jez Carreon of Singapore Named World's Most Sustainable Bartender at Flor de Caña Challenge
In an impressive display of skill and creativity, Jez Carreon from the renowned Employees Only bar in Singapore was celebrated as the World's Most Sustainable Bartender during the 4th Sustainable Cocktail Challenge. This prestigious event took place on February 27, 2025, against the stunning backdrop of Nicaragua's volcanic islets in Granada, where he competed against 18 of the world's top mixologists from countries like Mexico, the USA, and the UK.
Jez's triumph in this global final was marked by his innovative approach to cocktail creation. His winning drink, titled "Nicaragua is Calling", emphasizes minimal waste and incorporates locally sourced ingredients such as corn, coconut, and pineapple alongside Flor de Caña Rum aged 12 years. Additionally, the cocktail was served in a sustainable jícara cup and accompanied by a biodegradable coaster made from cocktail remnants. This thoughtful presentation not only showcased his bartending prowess but also his commitment to sustainability in the beverage industry.
"I feel amazing. What once seemed like a distant dream, something I never thought possible, has now become a reality. This truly defines my career. I have made my loved ones proud, and now I can say I am the best in the world at something," said Jez, reflecting on his victory.
The judging panel comprised industry experts including Danil Nevsky, second on the Bar World 100 list, and Patrick Pistolesi, founder of Drink Kong Master. They evaluated the cocktails based on taste, aroma, appearance, and the stories behind them, as well as the creativity involved in implementing sustainable practices.
This year, over 30 countries participated in the Sustainable Cocktail Challenge, highlighting Flor de Caña's historical commitment to sustainability and its effort to share these values with a global community of bartenders. Moreover, Flor de Caña Rum is the first distilled spirit globally certified as Carbon Neutral and Fair Trade. The rum is produced using 100% renewable energy and is actively engaged in environmental initiatives, having planted over a million trees since 2005.
Jez’s win not only reflects his exceptional talent but also serves as an inspiration for future mixologists. His journey emphasizes the importance of sustainability in cocktail crafting, and showcases how innovation can lead to recognition on a global scale. Alongside Jez, Andrea Pagliarini from Paradiso in Spain clinched the second place, with Simone Sacco from Piano35 Ristorante in Italy taking third place.
As the event continues to grow, it fosters an awareness of sustainable practices in the cocktail industry, encouraging bartenders around the world to rethink their approach to mixology while embracing a sustainable future. The Sustainable Cocktail Challenge stands as a beacon for those in the industry, showcasing how creativity and responsibility can go hand in hand to create memorable experiences for all.
As we look towards the future, the legacy of Jez Carreon and others following in his footsteps will undoubtedly contribute to a more sustainable world of cocktails, making each sip a statement of care for our planet.