Tim Philips Named Diageo Reserve World Class Bartender
Australia's Tim Philips is this year's Diageo Reserve World Class Bartender. Representing Sydney's Hemmesphere cocktail bar, Philips took the throne thanks to his Hot Toddy Australia, his take on the sweet cocktail comprised of Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve Blended scotch whiskey, honey, cinnamon quill and ginger.
The Hot Toddy Australia was just one of many drinks at the competition capturing retro chic, a current trend in the cocktail world which looks to the '50s and '60s for inspiration. Emerging victorious over 50 other finalists, Philips nailed it in terms of "precision, sense of showmanship and an innate ability to connect with the customer" says Diageo Reserve World Class judge Ueno Hidetsugu. "Tim blew me away with his ingenuity, vision, and insightful interpretation of the Retro Chic trend and is an ideal ambassador for our profession."
Now Diageo Reserve World Class' new champion, Philips will travel the world honing his skill and enlightening others in the field with his talent and innovation. "Diageo Reserve World Class is taking bartending from a humble trade to a profession. If I can be an ambassador for that, it’s a dream come true," Philips says.
Via Hospitality
Image: Diageo
