Moutai has unveiled the country’s top 10 bartenders in its ‘Enter The Dragon 3’ Australian cocktail competition.

Moutai is China’s most popular brand of baijiu, a traditional spirit with a history spanning more than 4000 years. Today, baijiu is the world’s most consumed spirits category.

During the ‘Enter The Dragon 3’ final, the nation’s top bartenders will experiment with the rich, versatile flavours of Moutai and introduce new cocktail experiences to the world.

The finalists were required to submit an original cocktail recipe incorporating 30mL of Moutai. The next stage will see them present their cocktail vision in just five minutes to a panel of distinguished judges.

The finalists are:

• Bertie Boekemann – Now and Then, NSW
• Brendan Scott Grey – Bar Love, WA
• Cristiano Beretta – Pocket Bar Terrigal, NSW
• Dave Whitehead – 18th Amendment, Geelong VIC
• Doris Yiyang Gao – PS40, NSW
• Ed Quatermass – Cuatro Group, QLD
• Gorge Camorra – Non Disclosure Bar, Geelong VIC
• Jono Carr – Chuck & Sons, NSW
• Jenny Wang – Sokyo, QLD
• Simon Dacey – Applewood Distillery, SA

Moutai Australia Brand and Marketing Manager Dan Zhao said: “This year’s ‘Enter The Dragon 3’ competition has been nothing short of extraordinary.

“We’ve seen a record number of entries, and the creativity displayed by bartenders has been truly astounding. The ability to pair Moutai’s rich complexity with diverse ingredients has shone through, and we can’t wait to see these finalists compete in the final round” at the end of the month”.

The grand finale will unfold over two days at the iconic Sydney Opera House on October 27 and 28, where the finalists will battle for the title of Moutai Master and a $10,000 prize.

The Drink Cabinet’s Jason Crawley, who is leading the production of the competition said: “Workers on the front lines of the hospitality industry are in real need of a morale boost right now. This competition empowers bartenders to showcase their creativity nationally, and the prospect of winning a life-changing substantial prize.

“Through my conversations with hundreds of entrants, I’ve seen a strong sense of optimism and gratitude for this opportunity. Now in its third year, Moutai’s ‘Enter the Dragon 3’ Competition is designed to be inclusive, welcoming participants of all skill levels. Judges will seek innovative ideas that complement this remarkable liquid.”

The world’s fastest growing spirit brand