This news item was published in Bartender Magazine’s November issue.

Jared Plummer, Maker’s Mark Brand Ambassador, scaled all corners of Australia over 5 weeks taste testing cocktail entries for this years;  Makers Mark ‘Leave Your Mark’ campaign before declaring Sebastien Derbomez (2010, Bar Manager of the Year) the winner. The competition asked bartenders to make a unique Maker’s Mark cocktail for a custom made pewter cup and barkeeps the nation wide stepped up to the challenge producing some wonderful drinks. “Determining a winner for the competition was no easy task,” Plummer stated, “as all cocktails created for the campaign were unique, carefully crafted and reflected the care we take when distilling the finest bourbon.”

Derbomez was elated at his win and looked forward to the next round - a international showdown in Kentucky, USA to decide who takes out the Maker’s Mark International Bartender for 2010.

“It will be an honour to represent Australia in a global competition” said a proud Derbomez,” who is set to jet off for five days at the Maker’s Mark distillery. “Ultimately, Sebastien’s creation was selected due to its creativity and unique combination of flavours that worked effortlessly.” His winning drink was The Star Hill Fizz; a combination of Maker’s Mark Bourbon, BOLS Cherry Brandy, Punt e Mes, a dash of French Absinthe, lemon and lime juices finished with a splash of ginger ale and grated nutmeg.