Singapore’s Jez Carreon has been named the “World’s Most Sustainable Bartender” after winning the Global Final of the Sustainable Cocktail Challenge, organised by Flor de Caña rum. Competing against 18 of the world’s top mixologists, Carreon claimed victory with his innovative cocktail, “Nicaragua is Calling.”
The final took place on 27 February in the stunning volcanic islands of Granada, Nicaragua, where some of the world’s leading bartenders gathered to demonstrate their creativity and commitment to sustainability. The competition, now in its fourth year, celebrates eco-friendly mixology and highlights Flor de Caña’s long-standing environmental initiatives.
A Winning Sustainable Cocktail
Carreon, who works at Employees Only Bar in Singapore, impressed the judges with his skills, passion, and focus on minimising waste. His cocktail, “Nicaragua is Calling,” was crafted using locally sourced ingredients from Singapore, including corn, coconut, and pineapple, blended with Flor de Caña 12 Year Rum. It was served in a biodegradable jicara cup with a coaster made from cocktail waste, reinforcing his sustainable approach.
Following his victory, Carreon expressed his joy, saying, “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.”
International Competition and Expert Judging
The competition’s second place went to Andrea Pagliarini from Paradiso Bar in Spain, while Simone Sacco from Piano35 Ristorante Bar in Italy secured third place.
A distinguished panel of industry experts judged the event, including Danil Nevsky (ranked second in the Bar World 100), Patrick Pistolesi (founder of Drink Kong), Gina Barbachano (manager of Hanky Panky, one of the World’s 50 Best Bars), and Marcus Voglrieder (Corporate Beverage Director at Nobu Restaurant Group). Contestants were evaluated on the taste, aroma, and presentation of their cocktails, as well as creativity and adherence to sustainable practices.
A Celebration of Sustainability
Over 30 countries participate in the Sustainable Cocktail Challenge, which serves as a platform for bartenders to showcase their commitment to sustainability. Organised by Flor de Caña, a brand renowned for its eco-conscious ethos, the challenge promotes sustainable bartending on a global scale.
Flor de Caña is recognised as the world’s first Carbon Neutral and Fair Trade-certified rum. Its production process relies entirely on renewable energy, captures CO2 emissions from fermentation, and has contributed to reforestation efforts by planting over one million trees since 2005.
Carreon’s triumph underscores the growing influence of sustainability in the hospitality industry, as bartenders worldwide continue to embrace environmentally responsible practices.
