The competition has been emceed for several years by possibly the world’s most famous bartender, the legendary Colin Field of the Ritz, Paris. “Hotel bars are where it’s at these days” he says. He’s seen Calvados make a splash and move into the sexy world of cocktails and says he's been working with it since 1982 - always ahead of his time.
In days of old Calvados was a popular tipple with coffee in the morning - and at night. In fact, it's still drunk this way in some places. But these days it's far more popular mixed with all sorts of things to create the most delicious cocktails. In Normandy they take their mixes seriously. The International Calvados Cocktail Competition is fun but surprisingly sober, winning is a serious business.
“A good bartender can make the reputation of a bar“ says Colin, “they’re a representative who can convert a bar’s attitude with their deft mix, gift of the gab and their image”.
Next time you’re in a bar – ask for a Calvados cocktail and prepare to be surprised…
Look out for next year's contest in Calvados, entry is free to the public: www.calvadosnouvellevogue.fr/
Pere Magloire Summer Punch
4 cl of Calvados Père Magloire
2 cl of Pommeau Père Magloire
4 cl of orange juice
2 cl of mango juice
1 cl of strawberry syrup
Serve with ice and a slice!
www.calvados-pere-magloire.com
Far left: Calvados Experience; mid: Calvados Experience shop; left: Calvados pairing; above: Some of the Calcvados cocktail contest winners