The Original Rum Bum has launched its first Rising Stars Challenge in partnership with Berkshire restaurant and cocktail bar The Braywood, targeting bartenders aged 18-28 to identify emerging industry talent.
Ten finalists will compete live in Berkshire on 28 September, with Ian Burrell, the global rum ambassador, serving as head judge alongside Salvatore Calabrese, Nicola Pellegrinetti of 74 Charlotte Street and Nunzio Giunta of The Woodspeen.
“There is an incredible amount of young talent coming through hospitality and we want Rising Stars to give them a platform to experiment, be creative and put themselves in front of some of the industry’s most respected names,” said Kevin ‘Snooky’ Snook, founder of The Original Rum Bum.
Entrants are being challenged to create an original rum-based cocktail and explain the thinking behind their ingredients, with prizes including an overnight stay at Bray Cottages, dinner at The Braywood and a trip to a bartenders’ convention in Italy.
Entries are open now for The Original Rum Bum Rising Stars Challenge, closing on 30 August.
Thomas Gammella, general manager at The Braywood, added: “We’re delighted to support an initiative that gives the next generation an opportunity to develop their skills and gain valuable industry exposure. We’re looking forward to seeing the originality and personality the finalists bring to the competition.”