One of the leading fourth-generation family-owned distilleries in Sri Lanka will host internationally acclaimed mixologist and Netflix Drink Masters finalist Tao Zrafi in Sri Lanka to conduct a mixology masterclass workshop titled “Art of Deception” spearheading excellence in the beverage sector.
The masterclass will train aspiring local mixologists to develop their drink-building skills from ordinary to extraordinary.
As the official hospitality partner, Cinnamon Grand Colombo will host the “Art of Deception” bar takeover at Colombo’s latest hotspot, Sequel, at the Cinnamon Grand on February 14.
“Sri Lanka has been focusing on goods and service exports, although the export of alcohol and spirits – despite earning the country $ 419,000 in 2020 – was in 816th place among the country’s exports,” said Rockland Distilleries General Manager of Imported Wines and Spirits, Danushka Othnapitiya.
“Alcohol products with regional denominations are a massive export revenue generator. For example, Mexico last year earned over $ 3 billion through its tequila exports. Unfortunately, we barely export, nor do we have an open dialogue on how the country can leverage this product, especially when the country can benefit from the forex generated,” he said.
“Despite the hospitality industry being hit with many talented local bartenders and mixologists opting for job opportunities abroad, ‘Smoke & Bitters’, a cocktail bar and smokehouse, put Sri Lanka on the global cocktail map by becoming Sri Lanka’s first-ever entry onto the “Asia’s 50 Best Bars” list.
“In this manner, Sri Lankan enterprises can play an important role in economic recovery – by engaging with value chains, they can reinvigorate their own businesses and help to create opportunity and economic growth. generating more local employment opportunities and sustainable foreign currency inflows,” he said.
“Our bars have made it to ‘Asia’s 50 Best Bars’ and the ‘World’s 50 Best Bars’ lists, putting Sri Lanka on the global radar. This is a good recognition of skill within the beverage industry,” said Othnapitiya.
During Tao’s stay in Sri Lanka, he will visit the Rockland Distillery to learn the art of making the iconic Ceylon Arrack.
– Sunday Observer Sri Lanka
, Business, ,