IoM bartender showcases Manx produce globally

A local bartender has won an international competition for his cocktail described as a ‘love letter to the Isle of Man’.

21-year-old Drew Fleming, from Douglas, saw off competition from some of the world’s most up and coming cocktail stars to scoop the ‘50 Best Bars scholarship’ in Barcelona last month.

His drink was called ‘Webb of Skies’ and was made from Hoolie Manx White Rum, lemon verbena from Staarvey Farm, Roots by the Sea Honey, and seaweed foraged from Port St Mary beach.

Environment minister, Clare Barber said: "Drew’s exceptional talent and passion for cocktail making and his use of delicious local ingredients is very inspirational. 

"This is a fascinating way for new audiences to sample the Island’s unique produce and we are very excited to see what he does next". 

The annual 50 Best Bar Awards are centred on the crowning of the World’s best bar, which was won by ‘Paradiso’ in Barcelona, where the Manx star picked up his award.

As part of his prize, he will now spend three months at two bars, which made it into the top ten at the awards. 

He'll start at the Connaught Bar in London before moving on to Katana Kitten in New York.