February 13, 2012

Matterhorn Ambassador to Compete in Global Cocktail Challenge

Riki Carter, Cocktail and Spirits Ambassador of Wellington’s iconic Matterhorn, is packing his shaker and preparing to compete in the Angostura Aromatic Bitters Global Cocktail Challenge this February in Trinidad and Tobago.

He was selected to be New Zealand’s representative December 2011 when he won the national title and willnow join 14 other world class mixologists to compete to be the Angostura Aromatic Bitters Global Cocktail Challenge Champion for 2012.

With first prize being US$10,000 and a contract to become Angostura's Global Brand Ambassador, the competition is extremely tough. Competing bartenders are asked to produce four world class cocktails; all have to contain five dashes of Angostura Bitters, while one has to be rum based and the other competitor’s choice.

“I’m really looking forward to showing what we in New Zealand can do” says Riki Carter. “The level of bartenders competing is high and the competition is both mentally and creatively demanding.

“Presenting four cocktails in seven minutes is a challenge in its self, but in front of an international panel of six judges and your peers, can be a daunting experience” he said.

Matterhorn has been an incubator for creating and showcasing top mixologists for three decades, regularly featuring nationally and internationally as one of the top 50 bars in the world.

“I’ve been fortunate to be part of such an amazing team at Matterhorn” says Carter.

“Creativity and innovation is the norm there; everyone pushes the boundaries to create that perfect experience for our customers. Either in the bar or in the restaurant”

“I can’t wait to bring some of that Wellington flavour to Trinidad and Tobago and learn at the same time from the others competing” he said.

The Angostura Aromatic Bitters Global Cocktail Challenge takes place on Sunday February 19th in Trinidad and Tobago, the birthplace of Angostura and the home of the Angostura museum and rum distillery.

ENDS

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