Congratulations to John, our Rising Star Champion 2024

The winning cocktail ‘Salty Ruibarbo’, is a twist on the classic Salty Dog cocktail. Originally, the drink consists of Vodka or Gin, Grapefruit juice, and salt. In John’s version, it's all about blending flavours without altering the essence of the original cocktail. Alongside Beefeater 24, the key flavour is grapefruit, which offers sweet, bitter, and tart notes. To enhance the drink, John adds Rhubarb Cordial, which contributes both sweet and tart flavours without overpowering the original recipe. Additionally, the ‘Salty Ruibarbo’ sparkles with homemade grapefruit soda, paying homage to the vibrant flavours of the disco era. Demonstrating his sustainable practices, John utilises grapefruit in various ways. The juice is extracted from the fruit while the rinds and leftover peels are used to create an Oleo-Saccharum, with half of the peel reserved for garnish, which contains Rhubarb jelly, and a Salt rim, using the dehydrated leftover rhubarb combined with rock salt.

What is Rising Stars

For the fourth year running, Pernod Ricard partnered with Marriott International EMEA to hold the Rising Stars training programme, culminating with a cocktail competition. Pernod Ricard has been working with Marriott Hotels international to elevate the guest experience and go ‘beyond beverage’ by providing comprehensive online training to associates across EMEA. For 9 finalists across the region, the training programme culminates with a week of in-person workshops focusing on sustainability, innovation, spirits masterclasses, entrepreneurship and mixology, alongside key beverage partners Lavazza & The London Essence Co. Paul Walker, International Key Account Manager & Anais Cherpin, Global Customer Development Manager, congratulated all the finalists for their passion and participation throughout the week, "For over eight years, our collaboration with Marriott has fostered a sense of conviviality, allowing us to engage more meaningfully with associates on property, regardless of their experience or expertise. The Rising Stars program beautifully embodies our shared commitment to supporting team members throughout their hospitality careers, celebrating success, and making a new friend every day as we help them grow and thrive alongside their peers." For Marriott International associates, head to the Rising stars digital platform for more news and to register for next year’s competition www.join-sip.com/en/risingstarsemea-access