A bartender from Belfast will be taking his place alongside some of the world’s top talent next month when he jets off for a two-night stint at the Moscow Bar Show in Saint Petersburg, Russia.
Michael Patterson, who is food & beverage manager at the Bullitt hotel in Belfast, will be attending the prestigious event between September 4 and 6 as part of the Moet Hennessy Assemblage programme.
The Moët Hennessy Assemblage Programme sought to bring 40 of the world’s best bartenders together in a year-long programme. Beginning with a three-day immersive experience of Moët Hennessy at Champagne in France, the programme culminates with a visit to one of eight high-profile European bar trade shows where the bartenders will represent the portfolio on a world stage. The portfolio includes world-class brands such as Hennessy, Möet & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and Belvedere vodka.
Michael, who works in Belvedere flagship bar, Babel Rooftop Bar & Garden, was handpicked by Dillon Bass – owners of the Moët Hennessy portfolio in Northern Ireland – to be part of this exciting initiative. Over the course of the year, he has developed his knowledge and skills in preparation for the Moscow Bar Show, where he will not only act as an ambassador for Moët Hennessy, but also showcase his own cocktail creation, named ‘Jas & Ginger’ after the famous Jas Hennessy.
A modern take on the classic sidecar, this sharp and sour mix of Hennessy VS, Cointreau and lemon juice, with ginger extract and a Sauternes reduction, can be savoured in the chic surroundings of Babel.
Speaking recently, bartender Michael said that he really appreciated the opportunity to meet his peers from around the world:
‘I am really looking forward to seeing what the bar scene is like in St Petersburg, as a city on the edge of Europe,’ he added. ‘Certain cities and countries are famed for their own unique bartending style, but I have no idea what to expect from St Petersburg. I am really excited to find out what the city has to offer.’
Laura Shiels, brand manager for Moët Hennessy at Dillon Bass added: ‘It’s so rewarding to have the opportunity to develop our local bartending scene and enhance their career opportunities. We are delighted to have been able to extend this opportunity to Michael and look forward to hearing about his experiences in St Petersburg.’
Our picture above shows Michael Patterson with Laura Shiels of Moet Hennessy.
