Glasgow bartender crowned 'Malt Mastermind'

Following rigorous judging, Michael Cameron from Guy's Restaurant & Bar, Glasgow was crowned the winner of the Glenfiddich 'Malt Mastermind' competition, held at Voltaire bar, London. Cameron won the competition with his cocktail called ‘Ours is the Fury’, which showcased his originality, creativity and in-depth knowledge of the malt whisky category.

The 10 finalists battled it out by showcasing a signature serve using a choice of three Glenfiddich whiskies.

The bartenders then had to take part in a quick fire buzzer round which tested their knowledge of the extensive world of malt whisky.

Judging the contest were Glenfiddich UK brand ambassador, Mark Thomson, director of prestige and William Grant & Sons family member, Kirsten Grant Meikle, Editor of The Cocktail Lovers, Gary Sharpen and Ali Reynolds, 2014 Glenfiddich Malt Mastermind winner.

The judges based their scores on innovation, taste, technique, performance, presentation and knowledge.  UK brand ambassador, Mark Thomson comments: “It’s heart-warming to be working with such talent.

The respect, yet playful take on our brand was both exciting to judge and kept all the judges entertained, whilst making the winning decision extremely tough to call this year.” Sarah Harding, senior brand manager for Glenfiddich, said: “Once again we were blown away by the high standard of the competitors in this much anticipated contest.

All of the finalists showcased wonderful examples of innovative whisky cocktails and we hope the competition inspires other bartenders to experiment with Glenfiddich, driving category interest and consumer recruitment.”

The finalists were:

• Kieron  Hall, Bonbar, Newcastle upon Tyne
• Aiden Page, Carmelite Hotel, Aberdeen
• Alix Nardella, Mission E2, London
• Manachain Monaghan, Monk Cocktail Bar, Buxton
• Dan Berger, Ace Hotel, London
• Bartosz Kowalski, Union Street Café, London
• Michael Cameron, Guy's Restaurant & Bar, Glasgow
• Mark Barrett, Cringletie House, Edinburgh
• Nicholas Gilmour, The Tippling House, Aberdeen
• Stephen Rutherford, Orchid, Aberdeen

Michael Cameron has won a VIP trip to the Glenfiddich distillery and £1,000. Glenfiddich will also work with Michael to showcase his serve at brand events throughout 2016.