Frenchman crowned Bombay Sapphire winner

French bartender Remy Savage has been named winner of the Bombay Sapphire Most Imaginative Bartender competition following a close final held in London.

France’s Remy Savage has been crowned winner of the Bombay Sapphire Most Imaginative Bartender cocktail competition

Up against competition from 14 other international bartenders, Savage impressed a panel of judges with his cocktail Paper Anniversary, inspired by his visit to Bombay Sapphire’s soon-to-be opened new gin distillery at Laverstoke Mill, an old paper mill.

The “unique” cocktail featured homemade paper syrup to provide a subtle scent of paper.

Finalists from Europe, North America, South Africa, Japan and Mexico were tasked with creating a cocktail inspired by England.

“Our aim for this competition is to inspire creativity through mixology; not only within bartenders but by everyone that enjoys cocktail making around the world,” said Raj Nagra Bombay Sapphire global brand ambassador.

“We’ve explored the most magnificent parts of England, understanding first-hand how our exotic gin is made, whilst discovering the ‘hidden London’ keeping us enchanted by its cosmopolitan vibe and ever changing landscape.”

Sitting on the panel of judges for the final round was Jacob Briars, head of global advocacy and training at Bacardi; famed bartender Ryan Chetiyawardana, founder of White Lyan; Alex Kratena, head bartender at the renowned Artesian Bar at The Langham; and Hamish Smith, of Drinks International.

As the competition winner, Savage will receive £10,000, a place in Laverstoke’s Cocktail Hall of Fame, a precious sapphire stone pin and the opportunity to promote Bombay Sapphire alongside Nagra at international trade shows.

He will also work with Virgin Atlantic to create a new cocktail which will feature on the airline’s Clubhouse menus.

“This is a total surprise, and it feels amazing to be chosen as Bombay Sapphire’s World’s Most Imaginative Bartender 2014,” said Savage. “I only enter competitions I feel passionate about, and this was a truly mind-blowing experience.”

“I was inspired by the commonwealth notes that were created at Laverstoke Mill all those years ago – I wanted to replicate the flavour of paper and celebrate the history of gin and I believe my cocktail is a delicious celebration of this.”