23 August 2004
THE BATTLE OF THE BARTENDERS IS SET FOR THE SOUTH
The title of New Zealand's best pourer and server of Belgian Beer will be fought out on 1st September 2004. Bartenders
from around the country will congregate for the annual Stella Artois Draught Masters competition at Torenhof, the new
Belgian Beer Café in Christchurch.
A total of fifteen bartenders from all corners of the nation will compete for this year's Draught Masters title with the
winner being given the opportunity to represent New Zealand at the World Draught Masters competition in October in
Belgium.
In 2002, Simon McGoram from Auckland won New Zealand Draught Masters and then went on to beat 19 bartenders from 18
countries when he competed in the World Draught Masters in Brussels, proving that New Zealand is right up there at the
top when it comes to bartending.
Contestants will be required to perform a seven-minute Belgian pouring ritual including a "serial pouring" of two Stella
Artois' on draught, one Hoegaarden White from the bottle and one Leffe Dark from the bottle, served with the respective
coasters to the judging panel.
Stella Artois brand manager, Jeremy O'Brien says for bartenders to provide the ultimate drinking experience there is
often more to it than just pouring the beer.
"Participants' style and social skills such as spontaneity, eye contact, sociability and serving technique at the table
will also be taken into consideration," says O'Brien.
"We want this competition to enhance the beer culture here in New Zealand. Through this event we hope to highlight the
importance of service standards and increase the awareness of the Belgian pouring ritual, both of which are significant
factors in the enjoyment and appreciation of Belgian beers," says O'Brien.
Originating in 1997, the Stella Artois World Draught Masters is the only international Draught Masters competition
making this award one of the most prestigious and recognised titles to be bestowed upon bartenders around the world.
ENDS