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Master of Malt crowns Clubman Trophy winner
UK-based spirits wholesaler Master of Malt Trade has announced the inaugural Clubman Trophy 2024 winner.
In 2024, the Master of Malt Trade introduced the Clubman Trophy to recognise people working in hospitality.
Nick Collier from the Brighton Rocks cocktail bar was named the 2024 winner of the Clubman Trophy. Two of his colleagues described him as “the hardest working member of staff we have ever had”.
“We wanted to celebrate and thank those quiet heroes who keep the wheels turning in businesses, to give a platform to those who are in the background and won’t usually get any type of recognition other than a pat on the back at the end of a shift,” explained Liam Belton, trade lead at Master of Malt Trade.
“We have been bowled over by the number of nominations from both the on and off-trade across the UK, as well as by the passionate comments made by their colleagues; the spirit of what we hoped to recognise has been truly embodied.”
The shortlist selection committee comprised Master of Malt’s Belton and Adrian Lugg; Melita Kiely, editor of The Spirits Business; and Stephen Russell, the managing director of the Copper Rivet Distillery in Kent. The winner was then chosen by the Master of Malt Trade sales team at the beginning of June.
The nominators continued: “From not having any cocktail experience, he has learnt so well and now produces excellent quality drinks consistently and received many great reviews. We can’t think of anyone better suited to such an award, and it would be richly deserved. From making top-quality cocktails to clearing out drains, Nick really is the absolute definition of an unsung hero, and we couldn’t do our job without him.”
Master of Malt Trade partnered with family-owned Copper Rivet Distillery to offer the winner an unforgettable experience: an all-expenses-paid trip to blend their own whisky, dinner at the Pumproom restaurant, and an overnight stay for two.
The nominations were so strong that the judging team also decided to create a highly commended award. Runners-up included Jack Taylor from The Great British Beer Co, Tina Kelly from Be At One Liverpool, Andy McPhate from Stenhousemuir Football Club, and Vicky Ilankovan from Equal Measures, among others.
Copper Rivet distillery was established in 2016 and produces gin, vodka, liqueurs and whisky.