The three top South African mixologists competing for the title of Kaya FM Afropolitan Cocktail Champion are: Kurt Schlechter winner of the FHM Brandy Cocktail of the year competition 2011; Yonda Njokweni of Bartenders Workshop and Mathew Packham, Liquid Chefs.
The ‘mix-off’ will take place at the Kaya FM stand at 18h30 on June 26th , the opening night of the show. The judging panel will include a Kaya FM DJ and a Kaya FM listener.
The winning mixologist will win a trip to Cape Town including a visit to a top brandy distillery in Stellenbosch to learn how brandy is made. The winner will stay at the One&Only Cape Town and will also take part in a Brandy Shake-Up session with Jacques Blaauw, the hotel’s resident mixologist. Exploring the social side of brandy, the winner will also experience the newly launched Urban Brandy Cocktail route.
Says Christelle Reade-Jahn, director of the SA Brandy Foundation: “Globally the cocktail culture is flourishing. Much like chefs, bartenders are driven by ingredients in contemporary ways, pushing the boundaries and resurrecting old-school drinks with new-school flair.”
She adds that with initiatives such as the Afropolitan Brandy Cocktail of the year competition and the urban brandy cocktail routes, South African brandy with its many facets and flavour profiles, plays a leading role on the cocktail scene. “The country’s most iconic spirit continues to inspire new creations and new ways to share and enjoy it.”
Practical details:
Fine Brandy Fusion, Sandton, 26 - 28 June, Sandton Convention Centre
Times: 17h30 – 21h30 (no entry after 21h00).
Cost: R195, includes a brandy glass, beverage and coffee vouchers.
Tickets available from Computicket or at the door.
No visitors under 18 years.