Diageo World Class has revealed its Australian winner for 2019: Alex Boon from Mjølner in Melbourne.
Beating hundreds of bartenders from across the nation, Boon will head to Scotland on September 24- 26 to fly the flag for Australia and compete against 55 other nations for the title of Diageo World Class Global Bartender of the Year 2019.
Diageo noted that Boon marked his fourth year entering the competition with an “exceptional win, demonstrating unique flair, passion and creativity during the event”.
The 2019 Australian competition challenged professional bartenders across the country to create a unique cocktail using spirits from Diageo’s Reserve portfolio – Ketel One Vodka, Tanqueray No. TEN Gin and Talisker 10-Year-Old Single Malt Whisky.
For the grand final the Top 20 in Diageo World Class 2019 were put through their paces at a two-day event hosted at The Dolphin & Scout Bar in Sydney, by a panel of industry experts, judged on quality, presentation, service and of course, taste.
Krystal Hart (above), Australia’s WORLD CLASS Ambassador, said: “This year was highly competitive and a showcase of extraordinary talent. It’s exciting to see how innovative Australia’s bar industry has become. Alex impressed us early on, and his continued sense of creativity and attention to detail really shone through in the judge’s eyes. Once again the competition has inspired us with new ideas and we can’t wait to touchdown in Glasgow where Alex will demonstrate what Australia has to offer.”
Boon added: “I am so honoured to have competed alongside the best bartenders in the country and to have been named the Diageo WORLD CLASS Australian best bartender – this really is a momentous moment in my career…I’m still letting it sink in!
“It was a tough final – the level of talent in the competition was incredibly high and I am just so delighted and proud to have been awarded the title. It really is a huge acclaim, not only for me but also for Melbourne.
“Now I look forward to representing my country in the global competition in Glasgow. Bring it on!”
Mjolner Australia noted on Instagram: “Big shout out to our legendary bar manager @doonbocksaint_for winning @worldclassaustralia !! Absolute Legend!! Can’t wait to see what he does next!”
