Following some skillful performances from each of the ten finalists at Dublin’s newly-opened Ukiyo bar, the winner of the Irish leg of the Opihr World Adventure Cocktail Competition was announced as Barney O’Kane of One Goose Entry in Belfast.
Commenting on his accomplishment, O'Kane said, “I’m completely overwhelmed to have won the Irish leg of the Opihr World Adventure Cocktail Competition! The calibre of the entrants was very high, so I’m delighted to have come out on top.”
The Belfast bartender is now preparing to journey to Istanbul as Ireland's representative Ireland at the grand final of the international competition.
Excited For The Next Stage
O'Kane asserted, “Opihr is a gin I’ve always found immensely interesting. The taste and aroma always provoke a different response from each individual. The competition brief to include local ingredients brought something special to the mix and it was fantastic to see what everyone came up with. I’m very excited for the next stage in Istanbul, it’s the perfect location! There are some top class judges so I hope I’m up to the challenge!”
Meanwhile, on-trade commercial manager of Quintessential Brands Ireland Lisa Doyle expressed her confidence in O'Kane's abilities, saying, “There was an unprecedented number of entries from Ireland for this year’s Opihr World Adventure Cocktail Competition. The standard was truly world-class and we know Barney will take Istanbul by storm at the grand final.”
© 2018 Hospitality Ireland – your source for the latest industry news. Article by Dave Simpson. Click subscribe to sign up for the Hospitality Ireland print edition.
