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

Jez Carreon Triumphs at the Global Finals of the Sustainable Cocktail Challenge

In an exhilarating culmination of talent and innovation, Jez Carreon from the Employees Only Bar in Singapore has been celebrated as the World's Most Sustainable Bartender at the Global Final of the Sustainable Cocktail Challenge 2025, sponsored by Flor de Caña. This prestigious event brought together 18 exceptional mixologists from diverse regions, including Mexico, the United States, Costa Rica, the United Kingdom, France, Spain, and Japan, all vying for the coveted title in the picturesque setting of Granada, Nicaragua.

A Spectacular Venue

Held on February 27, 2025, amidst Nicaragua's stunning tropical volcanic islands, the challenge showcased the finest bartending skills as each competitor demonstrated their expertise in crafting not just cocktails, but sustainable cocktails. Flor de Caña rum was the star ingredient, and the competitors' ability to blend creativity with sustainability was put to the test.

Jez’s Winning Creation

Jez Carreon stood out with his impressive sustainable mixology skills, particularly with his winning cocktail named "Nicaragua is Calling". This cocktail was a true representation of local flavors and sustainability—it was crafted using Singaporean ingredients such as corn, coconut, and pineapple combined with Flor de Caña 12 Year Rum. What's more, it was served in an environmentally friendly jicara cup, alongside a biodegradable coaster that was made from leftovers of the cocktail garnishes, perfectly encapsulating the ethos of minimal waste.

Upon receiving the accolade, Jez shared his emotions: _"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.”_

Praise from the Jury

The judging panel included notable industry figures such as Danil Nevsky, ranked 2nd in the Bar World 100, and Patrick Pistolesi, founder of Drink Kong Master. They evaluated each cocktail based on key factors such as taste, aroma, presentation, and creativity, as well as their alignment with sustainable practices. Alongside Jez, Andrea Pagliarini from Paradiso Bar in Spain and Simone Sacco from Piano35 Ristorante Bar in Italy claimed the second and third positions respectively.

Commitment to Sustainability

The Sustainable Cocktail Challenge isn't just about bartending; it symbolizes Flor de Caña's historic dedication to environmental responsibility within the spirits industry. Flor de Caña is the world’s first Carbon Neutral and Fair Trade certified rum, renowned for its ethical practices, including distillation using 100% renewable energy. The brand has also committed to planting over one million trees since 2005, highlighting its unwavering commitment to sustainability.

With the participation of over 30 countries, this event underlines the importance of sustainable practices within the bartending community, promoting awareness and encouraging the adoption of eco-friendly techniques across the globe. By showcasing innovative cocktail recipes that utilize local ingredients and sustainable methods, competitors like Jez Carreon are paving the way for a greener future in mixology.

In conclusion, Jez Carreon’s accomplishment at the Sustainable Cocktail Challenge not only celebrates his personal achievements but also sends a powerful message about sustainability within the culinary arts, inspiring bartenders worldwide to think creatively and responsibly.