Check out the creation that won over judges at the recent old fashioned competition

After more than 15 submissions and 8 shortlisted bartenders, 1 local champion emerges. Woodford Reserve continues to celebrate the artistry and skill of bartenders with its recent competition, ‘The Wonderful Race.’

Stiff Competition

After a rigorous selection process, the talented finalists from Malaysia’s vibrant bartending community were chosen to showcase their expertise and creativity in elevating the classic Old Fashioned Cocktail.

A distinguished panel of judges, including Nicholas Ng, a renowned Restaurant Critic and Food & Beverage Expert, Bannie Kang, winner of the Mancino Bartenders’ Bartender Award as part of Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2021, and Evgeny Yashkovich, Marketing Manager at Brown Forman Asia, were entrusted with the challenging task of determining the champion.

Above And Beyond

In a stunning display of creativity and flavour mastery, Koh Yung Shen from Backdoor Bodega as the victor, also captured the hearts and palates of the judges. His winning creation, aptly named “Winter Woodford-land,” dazzled the senses with a harmonious blend of Woodford Reserve bourbon and winter melon sugar meant for the cold winter months in Kentucky.

The judges were also captivated by the cocktail’s intricate balance and its ability to enhance the premium qualities of Woodford Reserve. As a testament to his exceptional skills, Shen has been awarded an all-expenses-paid trip to the legendary Woodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, Kentucky, United States of America.

The Accolades

This extraordinary opportunity will provide him a chance to meet with Woodford Reserve’s esteemed Master Distiller and further deepen his understanding of the craftsmanship behind this iconic spirit.

Now, cocktail enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike have the opportunity to savour Shen’s competition cocktail, 1812, at Backdoor Bodega. Crafted with the utmost care and expertise, this artisanal creation harmoniously combines Woodford Reserve with nutmeg, a spice coincidentally or not planted in Penang in the same year Woodford was first distilled, resulting in a truly memorable drinking experience.

Visit the Official Woodford Reserve Website to find out more.