We all think we can mix a tasty drink, especially after we’ve sampled a few of our own for research purposes. The thing is, if you want to crack it on the big stage you can’t use the same tactic as you do around the braai – it’s not the stronger the better when you’re playing in the professional leagues.

So how about we meet the man who holds the title of South Africa’s best bartender? His name is Dom De Lorenzo, he works at Molecular Bar and he beat six of the best from around the country to grab top spot.

The Diageo Reserve WORLD CLASS Bartender of the Year competition, now in its seventh year, is the biggest and most prestigious mixology event in the world, providing a platform to celebrate the skill and craft of the world’s best bartenders, showcase fine-drinking experiences and inspire drinkers to embrace quality cocktail culture around the globe.

Clinching the victory with his original creations the “Curious Case of the Malted Man” and “Lady in Red”, De Lorenzo set himself apart from his competitors with his novel approach to some classic drinks.

“Winning the WORLD CLASS national finals is the pinnacle of my career as a bartender. I’ve worked hard towards this goal and it’s incredibly gratifying to be acknowledged in this way. I want to send a big shout out to all my fellow competitors: your talent is an inspiration to me,” said De Lorenzo.

Using the finest products from the Diageo Reserve portfolio of luxury brands – with a special focus on Ketel One Vodka and Tanqueray No Ten – the finalists crafted a series of unique, awe-inspiring cocktails perfectly demonstrating mixology as an art form.

Some more about Dom from his profile page on World Class SA:

Congrats from all of us over here at 2OV, if you feel like swinging past the office at any point and letting us in on your secrets the door is always open.