Erick Lerch from Mother Cocktail Bar in Ontario, Canada claimed victory this year, demonstrating outstanding creativity and a compelling interpretation of heritage at the El Dorado Rum Heritage Cocktail Competition, which took place at the Demerara Rum Heritage Centre, Demerara Distillers Limited, on Thursday, April 10, 2025. A fierce and talented group of 10 global finalists competed for the coveted title of 2025 champion.
Steven Huddleston from Stir (by SQ1) in Tennessee, United States, took second place, while Romel Persaud from Therapy Cocktails in Guyana claimed third. Both impressed the judges with their inventive use of local ingredients and the powerful narratives that reflected their cultural heritage. Their cocktails highlighted a deep connection to their roots, blending regional flavors with the essence of El Dorado Rum, earning them high praise for both creativity and storytelling.
Following regional competitions, the finalists representing their respective territories were: Shelley Bowers (House of Bamboo, California, United States), Steven Huddleston (Stir (by SQ1), Florida, United States), Benedetta Paris (Happiness Forgets, United Kingdom), Erick Lerch (Mother Cocktail Bar, Ontario, Canada), Nizel Waldron (Ace Bar Services, Trinidad), Fabio Kaufmann (Residenz Heinz Winkler, Germany), Charles Portail (Sauvage, France), Andreas Ording (Boho House, Norway), Daniel Hilton (Kitty Hawk, Australia), and Romel Persaud (Guyana). These finalists were awarded an all-expenses-paid trip to the famed Diamond Distillery, home of El Dorado Rum and Guyana’s last remaining distillery, nestled along the Demerara River.
Aiming to succeed Mike Dojcsak (Canada), the winner of last year’s inaugural edition, the competitors were tasked with two cocktail submissions: the first required recreating their winning cocktail from the regional heats, and the second involved crafting a new drink inspired by ingredients native to the Guyanese market, featuring one of the El Dorado Single Still Rums (El Dorado Single Still Enmore, El Dorado Single Still Port Mourant, and El Dorado Single Still Versailles). In this highly competitive contest, the finalists demonstrated their skill and artistry, presenting cocktails that blended local ingredients with El Dorado Rum in fresh, exciting ways.
The competitors were judged on various criteria, including visual appeal, taste and balance of flavor, creativity and originality, the story behind their heritage, brand synergy and suitability, and the name of their cocktail. The judging panel, comprised of seasoned experts in the industry, included: Marie King, International Rum and Cocktail Specialist from the US; Timo Janse, renowned Bar Owner and Cocktail Expert from Spain; and Shaun Caleb, Master Distiller at Demerara Distillers Limited.
Judges Timo Janse and Marie King both agreed that “It was a unanimous decision, and we feel confident that we chose the right winner. Over the past two days, we saw some truly impressive drinks, but day two really set the top contenders apart. I’m happy to say we found someone who stood out.”
The new global champion of the El Dorado Rum Heritage Cocktail Competition receives a prize of $5,000 USD and a collection of rare El Dorado Rums, cementing their place in the legacy of this prestigious competition.
The El Dorado Rum Heritage Cocktail Competition continues to serve as a vital platform for fostering creativity, skill development, and connection within the global bartending community. It highlights the versatility of El Dorado Rum and celebrates the rich heritage of Guyana, ensuring that the legacy of these exceptional rums lives on for future generations.
