Young bartenders shaking up China's maturing cocktail scene

Bartenders have prepared all kinds of cocktails with good aroma and taste, combined with Western and Asian elements. Photo provided to China Daily

Bacardi rums, which originated in the Cuban city of Santiago in 1862, are used in many classic cocktails, such as the mojito and the Cuba Libre. Launched in China in 2013, the competition nurtures Chinese bartenders and creates a platform for them to showcase their talent.

The 12 Chinese bartenders, including two women, stood out in the regional finals of the competition, which were held last September and October in different locations around China. More than 510 people participated in the competition. At the China final, the contestants introduced themselves and their original cocktails.

The competition also showcased some Asian elements. For example, one contestant used a traditional Chinese wine vessel called zun, a bronze wine goblet with three legs used in ancient times. Another contestants used Thai soup Tom Yum Kung in his cocktail.

Zhang Min from Flavor Lounge in Chongqing placed second in the competition with Summer Day, a cocktail inspired by a summer vacation in Thailand with his girlfriend. Yao Jian from Peacock Music Restaurant in Jinan, Shandong province, finished third with his creation, Spring Morning.c