Stefano Bussi of Vida Rica Bar, Mandarin Oriental Macau, has been crowned the 2024 Diageo World Class Bartender of the Year for Hong Kong and Macau. The regional competition, held at Argo bar in the Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, concluded after two days of intense competition.

Bussi is the first bartender from Macau to win this title. He will represent Hong Kong and Macau at the global finals in Shanghai this September, competing against champions from over 60 cities for the Global Bartender of the Year title.

Judges included Tim Philips-Johansson, Johnnie Walker’s Global Brand Ambassador; Agostino Perrone, Director of Mixology at The Connaught Hotel in London; Bannie Kang, 2019 Diageo World Class Global Bartender of the Year; and Michito Kaneko, 2015 Diageo World Class Global Bartender of the Year.

Bussi impressed judges with his creativity, showmanship, and use of fresh, healthy ingredients in his cocktails. He designed four cocktails featuring Johnnie Walker Black Label, Don Julio Blanco, Tanqueray No.10, and Ketel One, incorporating ingredients like tomatoes, carrots, and rooibos tea.

Bussi utilized advanced AI analytics to identify trends in the cocktail industry, focusing on the growing demand for health-conscious, lower-ABV cocktails. His innovative approach and market insight secured his victory.

First and second runners-up were Jack Ng from Argo and Brian Chan from COA, respectively. The global finals in Shanghai will take place in September 2024.

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