Shekhar Grover from Royal Caribbean International has been crowned the winner of the 2018 Bacardi Legacy Cruise Bartender of the Year competition.
Grover, who created The Royal Legacy cocktail, scooped the top prize at the final on 6 February in Miami. His win qualifies him for the global finals in Mexico City in May 2018 where he will compete against winners from 38 different markets.
Bacardi Global Travel Retail International Key Account Manager (Cruise) Zachary Sulkes commented: “Shekhar has been especially inspirational with his masterful creation, exceeding expectations to deliver a unique and truly world class cocktail. His care and professionalism throughout the process epitomise best-in-class bartending in any sector, and he is a fantastic ambassador for the cruise industry – an increasingly important channel for the premium drinks industry.”
Bacardi Brand Ambassador for the United States and a Bacardi Legacy competition judge Juan Coronado added: “After seeing Shekhar’s performance during the 2018 Global Travel Retail finals, I’m excited to say that he truly opened my eyes to the enormous hospitality, talent and level of skills required as a cruise ship bartender. The Royal Legacy conjures spices and stone fruit flavours that, together with the oak and vanilla notes of Bacardi Ocho (8) Años, create a succulent cocktail that you want to last forever.”
Shekar Grover said: “There are lots of competitions around the world, but being part of the Bacardi Legacy is more than the competition, it’s about being welcomed with an open heart into the Bacardi family. I’m honoured to be part of this competition and will put everything towards my best possible approach for the global finals. It’s a dream come true for me and I can feel the Bacardi bats all around me.
“I named my cocktail The Royal Legacy to represent the legacy of the royal family; Bacardi Ocho (8) Años with its tropical fruits as a base is complemented by dates infused with Martini Bianco and Martini Rosso paired with two dashes of aztec chocolate and plum bitters. I hope everyone will enjoy the taste as much as I’ve enjoyed the creation!”
