Manly Spirits brought together some of the Gold Coast’s leading bartenders for the Manly Spirits Cocktail Competition on Monday, with Angus Burgin from Hyde Paradiso Bar crowned the winner.
Taking place at Isla Cantina in Surfers Paradise, the competition saw bartenders go head-to-head in a mystery box-style cocktail competition. Each receiving a box of mystery ingredients, bartenders had just 10 minutes to curate a winning cocktail recipe and present it before a panel of judges, highlighting the participants’ creativity and flair, but also the versatility of Manly Spirits’ coastal-inspired spirits.
Wowing the judges, Angus claimed top spot, walking away with a luxury getaway with Manly Spirits at the InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort.
Matteo Barnett, Manly Spirits Cocktail Competition Curator, says: “The energy at Isla Cantina was electric. From the first shake to the final round, you could feel the passion and creativity behind every pour. It was more than a competition – it was a celebration of craft and community.”
Taking on a simpler format than most cocktail competitions, the Manly Spirits Cocktail Competition was designed to break down barriers to entry and create a more inclusive environment.
The event also highlighted the strength of the local hospitality scene, attracting a strong crowd of cocktail lovers and fellow bar professionals.
