Smirnoff Dare to Mix top finisher Andrew Campbell shares winning cocktail

Andrew Campbell’s journey in mixology has spanned more than 10 years, with his professional career as a bartender dating as far back as 2003, and including stints at the Hilton Hotel, Mayfair Hotel, Cuddy’s, and the Acropolis Gaming Lounge. The father of two daughters received his earliest formal training at B&E Catering and was mentored by Master Mixologist Sean Gonzales. In 2017, he won a Vodka competition where he earned the title of master mixologist.

“I fell in love with bartending early. Mixology unearthed a passion I didn’t even realise existed. The craftsmanship and the desire to deliver a superior customer experience came naturally and aligned perfectly with my personality. I’m committed to continuously honing my craft and realise my goal of becoming a well-recognised and respected bartender known for my unique creations,” said Campbell, who is currently employed at Our Place on Hillcrest Avenue in Kingston.

The top finisher in the Smirnoff Beyond the Bar Dare to Mix competition, which earned him the title Jamaica’s #1 Bartender and a $1 million cash prize, he shared the recipe for his award-winning drink, the Peppertail. The cocktail features the use of sweet peppers, which give it an extra kick, and was a favourite among the judges.

PEPPERTAIL

INGREDIENTS

2oz Smirnoff Vodka

1oz Triple Sec

1/2 oz clear syrup

1/2 oz lime juice

A splash of lime soda, injected with rose water

Sweet pepper

Honey and pepper flakes (to rim sweet pepper cup)

3 drops of pepper sauce

DIRECTIONS

• Add the ingredients to a cocktail shaker. Fill with a handful of ice and shake until very cold.

• Rim sweet pepper cups with honey and pepper flakes

• Pour cocktail into sweet pepper. Enjoy!