With the new competition format, diverse Swiss products are combined with internationally renowned brands to create the best cocktail creations. In the current challenging times, professionals Barkeeper are given the opportunity to be innovative and to compete with their colleagues. BAR NEWS talks to Michael Zotter, one of the initiators, about the premiere of the SWISS COCKTAIL OPEN.
What makes the SWISS COCKTAIL OPEN so unique?
Michael Zotter: The SWISS COCKTIAL OPEN is a new competition format. As the name suggests, "OPEN" means that the competition should be open to as many Barkeeper as possible. All Barkeeper (m/f) who work part-time or full-time in Switzerland can submit their recipe. We have made sure that there are as few restrictions as possible, but we want to give all participants a fair competition.
What are the most important conditions for participation?
The recipe must be a new, previously unpublished cocktail creation. Short drinks or long drinks consisting of 3 to 6 products (plus decoration) are permitted. As we are keen to promote Swiss products, at least one Swiss brand from a registered competition partner must be used. Likewise, at least one international brand of a registered international competition partner must be used.
Why is it worth taking part in the SWISS COCKTAIL OPEN?
The search is on for the best cocktail in Switzerland! Barkeeper from all over Switzerland will compete to see who can claim this award. In addition to the winner's title, there will also be an exclusive prize to be won by the winner. In addition, various special prizes will be awarded.
How does the competition differ from the SWISS BAR AWARDS?
The two formats are completely different and not comparable. In the SWISS COCKTAIL OPEN, the focus is on the drink, whereas in the SWISS BAR AWARDS the Barkeeper, or the bars, are evaluated and awarded prizes. Of course, the quality of the bartender's work also plays a part in the evaluation of the SWISS COCKTAIL OPEN, but it plays a subordinate role.
What is the procedure of the competition?
The competition is divided into two phases. In the first phase, Barkeeper can send in their recipes until 20 May 2021. According to the rules, products from registered brands may be used. These recipes will then be evaluated by a jury of experts. The best recipes will make it into the grand final of the SWISS COCKTAIL OPEN. The grand final will take place in the second phase.
When and in what form will the final take place?
It is planned to hold the grand final on Monday, 21 June 2021 at Chicago 1928 in Zurich-Oerlikon with 24 finalists mixing for the best cocktail in Switzerland. We assume that a final open to the public will be possible by this date. Alternatively, we have worked out various other implementation variants.
Who judges at the SWISS COCKTAIL OPEN?
As the organiser, it is important to us that the recipes submitted are judged by a top-class jury. We pay attention to a balanced composition with specialists from the bar scene, consumers as well as sensory specialists. We also want to have the best in the jury!
Is now the right time for such a competition?
We have discussed this intensively and held numerous talks. The opinion clearly prevails that the corona situation will relax and that the time is ripe for such an event. We are very pleased that more than 80 brands have already registered for the premiere of the SWISS COCKTAIL OPEN. It shows that - despite the difficult last few months - there are positive signs for the future in the industry as well. At this point, a big "thank you" to all partners who support the idea of the SWISS COCKTAIL OPEN!
What else is there to say?
Can you mix the best cocktail in Switzerland? Show your bartending skills and take part in the biggest cocktail competition in Switzerland!
