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Overview: In the world of mixology, few competitions command as much respect and prestige as the MONIN NZ Cocktail Cup. Held annually to showcase the best of New Zealand’s bartending talent, this year’s event has seen some truly exceptional creations from across the country.
The Full Story
Among those vying for top honors is Stefani, a talented mixologist based at The Langlands’ rooftop cocktail bar in Invercargill. With a passion for experimenting with local flavors and ingredients, Stefani has developed an innovative recipe using Monin Creme Brulée infused with miso – a unique combination that surprises the palate while maintaining balance and enjoyment.
The MONIN NZ Cocktail Cup is more than just a competition; it’s an opportunity for bartenders to push beyond the boundaries of traditional mixology. By incorporating locally sourced ingredients, flavors, and inspiration, contestants like Stefani are not only showcasing their technical skills but also contributing to New Zealand’s thriving food and beverage culture.
The event itself is steeped in tradition and prestige. Held on a national stage with some of New Zealand’s top bartenders competing for the coveted title, it requires dedication, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. As Alannah Tamariki, executive manager at The Langlands notes: “Stefani brings creativity, passion and genuine warmth to everything she does.” Her selection as a finalist is well-deserved recognition of her hard work.
Production & Profile
The Monin Creme Brulée infused with miso – the central component of Stefani’s recipe – presents an intriguing combination. Typically rich and creamy, this particular creation defies expectations by delivering a light, refreshing experience to the palate. By fine-tuning her approach through participation in last year’s competition and ongoing collaboration with local distilleries like Bluff Gin, Auld Farm Distillery, and Third Island Gin from Stewart Island – an acknowledgment of New Zealand’s diverse spirit landscape.
The aging process for spirits is a crucial aspect that affects the final taste profile. However, since Monin is not aged in this context but rather used as an ingredient in cocktails, it underscores Stefani’s creative approach to mixology. Her ability to balance flavors and innovate using local ingredients reflects her dedication to elevating New Zealand’s bartending scene.
Brand & Industry History
The Langlands – the venue where Stefani works her magic – has a rich history in Invercargill, providing more than just a space for drinking but also fostering community. With its rooftop cocktail bar offering panoramic views of the city and an extensive range of spirits, it’s no wonder that The Langlands is recognized as one of New Zealand’s top establishments.
The story behind Monin itself is equally compelling. Founded in France with a focus on high-quality flavorings for coffee shops and restaurants, they have since expanded globally to support the mixology industry by providing innovative ingredients like Creme Brulée – thus fostering creativity among bartenders worldwide.
What This Means
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