Licor 43 names World’s Most Passionate Bartender

Germany’s Martin Kramer has walked away with the title of World’s Most Passionate Bartender 2017 after winning Licor 43’s first global cocktail competition.

Martin Kramer, winner of Licor 43’s World’s Most Passionate Bartender 2017 competition

Last month, 16 bartenders who were victorious in their national heats travelled to Barcelona to take part in the global final of Spanish liqueur brand Licor 43’s World’s Most Passionate Bartender 2017 competition.

The finalists took part in a series of challenges over 48 hours, including an Instagram, food-pairing, and coffee challenge.

On the second day, all 16 bartenders were tasked with finding ingredients from a local market in 43 minutes, and with €43, to create their Licor 43 signature serves.

Subsequently, four finalists were named: Martin Kramer from Germany, Joe Macbeth from the UK, Rasmus Christiansen from Denmark, and Sweden’s Lucas Carlsson, who received a fast pass to the grand final after securing the most points during day one of the competition.

Kramer impressed the panel of judges – which included Arturo Illán, global brand manager for Licor 43; Gavin Wrigley, head of education at the European Bartender School; and me, Amy Hopkins, editor of The Spirits Business – with his coffee-based cocktail.

Kramer’s winning cocktail

The serve, called Oriental Coffee 43, consisted of Licor 43, añejo Tequila, raspberry pureé, white chocolate syrup, cardamom bitters, and one hot espresso shot, garnished with mint, dark berries and caramalised meringue.

“It’s amazing to have won this competition against so many good bartenders from around the world, all of whom made some great drinks and are passionate about what they do,” said Kramer.

“Being in Barcelona has been an amazing experience. I have made many new friends and learned a great deal from my experiences here.”

Oriental Coffee 43 has been named the official cocktail of Licor 43 and will feature on the brand’s global website. Kramer, who runs Charles Bar in Wittenberg, Germany, will receive a luxury trip to Spain for two as his prize.

“During the grand finale, Martin showcased his exceptional passion for creating great cocktails and offering a first class experience to guests in the bar,” commented Julian Fernandez Estevez, global marketing director of spirits at Diego Zamora Group, owner of the Licor 43 brand.

“This is of great importance in an industry that has daily contact with customers who love good drinks and great service. It is also something Licor 43 expresses through its Spanish heritage.

“We congratulate Martin and look forward to seeing where his great passion takes him and his career.”