Thomas Loosli’s ‘Note to Self’ cocktail wins Sarabande Studio-inspired Ketel One competition
Sarabande art studios are part of the Lee Alexander McQueen Foundation, which was set up to support artists and designers during the early stages of their careers. Ketel One were a founding partner, so it makes sense that the vodka’s Copper to Canvas competition challenged bartenders to seek inspiration from the studio’s artists-in-residence.
Seven bartenders were invited to compete by Ketel One brand ambassador Kate Jackson. The competitors absorbed works from Sarabande’s annual group show and then created serves which they felt reflected the creative spirit expressed by the the show’s artists.
A full day’s judging reduced the field to three finalists: Thomas Loosli (Original Sin), Eva Rudatis (Hide), and Kyle Jones (East London Liquor Co.). The finalists were then subjected to a bartender’s worst nightmare – the mystery round -which on this occasion revolved around creating a cocktail based on a millinery-themed installation by Jo Miller and Leo Carlton.
BarLifeUK weren’t in attendance, but we have it on good authority that the judges were very impressed with both the standard of drinks, and the thought and creativity that went into each presentation.
Thomas Loosli was adjudged to have done the best job, and his Note to Self cocktail (Ketel One Vodka, avocado-washed bianco vermouth, mastic with orange blossom foam, and four drops of coloured absinthe) won the competition.
Eva Rudatis placed second, with Kyle Jones coming third.
Thomas Loosli’s prize for winning will see him visit the Netherlands to attend King’s Day in 2019. Loosli says of his win: “I’m really excited to be travelling to Amsterdam for King’s Day in April. The other bartenders competing were very talented and everyone came up with incredibly creative serves so to win is such a huge honour.”
Full list of Ketel One Copper to Canvas competitors
Tom Hughes – Hide
Eva Rudatis – Hide
Thomas Loosli – Original Sin
Aiden Page – Callooh Callay
Claudia Newman – The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town
Kyle Jones – East London Liquor Co
James Cunningham – Happiness Forgets