Cocktail Mixologist Mike McGinty from "The Voyage of Buck" wins International Patrón Perfectionist competition.

“The Voyage of Buck” Bar and Kitchen opened on William Street in November, where the vintage décor and drinks list are inspired by William “Buck” Clarence who, allegedly, was a flamboyant Victorian entrepreneur setting off on intrepid global adventures.

The General Manager and Bar tender, Mike McGinty, created an innovative Tequila cocktail which won him the title, "UK Patrón Perfectionist champion, 2016". This month he travelled to Mexico for the grand final of the international Competition.

Quite appropriately, on 25th January - Burns Night, - he was crowned the overall winner of this inaugural Patrón cocktail competition beating the other champion mixologists, including Nick Cozens, Eau de Vie in Melbourne, Brice Martaud, Le Dandy in Lille and Fernando Fastuca, Liquid Experience in Buenos Aires.

Mike’s world-class cocktail The Bell of Jalisco, which wowed the judges, is a perfect blend of Patrón Reposado, chamomile infused vermouth and a yellow bell pepper shrub.

After receiving this prestigious accolade, he commented: “It’s still rather surreal. To be here in Jalisco, Mexico where Patrón originates, it’s very humbling. It’s testament to the talent back home that I’m here. Not just in the UK, but in Scotland particularly, we’re definitely making our mark in the global industry. I’m really pleased to be here representing Edinburgh and to have my efforts recognised with this title is just amazing.”

If you're a budding bar tender, here's the recipe for The Bell of Jalisco:

30ml Patrón Reposado tequila
12.5ml Chamomile infused dry vermouth
25ml Grapefruit IPA
20ml Lemon juice
20ml Yellow bell pepper shrub

Add all ingredients into a cocktail shaker. Shake and double strain into a rocks glass. Garnish with a dehydrated lime and chamomile flowers.

However, it might be wise to leave the shaking, stirring, mixing and muddling to the experts at "The Voyage of Buck.”! The travel-themed Cocktails are based around exotic places, famous writers and the drinking holes they frequented.

So why not visit the Bar soon to celebrate Mike’s success and sample a similar Tequila tipple, Yellow Pepper Sour, a delicious concoction of Patrón Silver, chamomile infused sherry, grapefruit bitters, lemon, Buck’s yellow pepper syrup and smoked sea salt.

Cheers!

Review of “The Voyage of Buck”
http://www.edinburghguide.com/venues/restaurants/thevoyageofbuck

http://www.thevoyageofbuckedinburgh.co.uk/