US bartender triumphs in Beefeater MIXLDN competition

Following a fierce three-day final in London, American bartender Brandon Phillips has been crowned champion in the Beefeater MIXLDN Global Bartender Competition.

Winner Brandon Phillips (left) with Beefeater master distiller Desmond Payne (right)

A total of 30 bartenders from around the world descended on London to partake in a series of tasks, which included crafting an innovative cocktail centred on the theme “London Inspires You. You Inspire London”.

But it was Phillips who impressed the most at the grand final on Wednesday with his cocktail titled, Hackney Handshake.

Forming the judging panel were Beefeater master distiller Desmond Payne, award-winning industry expert Ryan Chetiyawardana and spirits writers Dave Broom, Simon Difford and Sandrae Lawrence.

“I am very excited to have won Beefeater MIXLDN, which is the best and most challenging competition I have been involved with so far,” commented Philips.

“Beefeater is the definitive dry gin and exploring its rich heritage at its home in London has been an unparalleled experience and one of the highlights in my career.

“I can’t wait to go back to the US and champion Beefeater.”

As winner, Phillips has won the change to be mentored on the Beefeater Global Brand Ambassador Programme.

In addition, he will also be able to attend two bartender events of his choice this year, such as Tales of the Cocktail in New Orleans, The Moscow Cocktail Show or Tokyo Bar Show.

“Beefeater is dedicated to nurturing our biggest advocates, and our MIXLDN Global Bartender competition has seen an overwhelmingly talented and passionate group from the international on-trade community battle it our behind the bar,” said JC Inglesias, international brand director for Beefeater.

“Every year we look forward to welcoming some of the most talented bartenders from around the world to join us here in London.

“All competitors have shown great skill across the competition to create some outstanding and original cocktails inspired by our capital city and we would like to congratulate Brandon Phillips on his win.”