Gavin goes to London for Giffard Liqueurs’ West Cup cocktail decider

Glasgow bartender Gavin Lidbury has been named as a finalist in the 27^th Giffard West Cup cocktail competition.

Gavin, from The Finnieston Bar and Restaurant, will be representing Scotland at the final being held at Dear Darling in Mayfair on 21^st May, where he will compete against five other regional winners.

Premium liqueurs and syrups firm Giffard said that the event promises to be a ‘celebration of innovation and skill’ in the world of cocktails, where six exceptional bartenders will seek to hit the competition brief of the ‘Art of Balance’.

“In 2024 it’s all about finding that sweet spot between staying connected online, chasing career goals, taking care of oneself, and keeping up with friends and family,” said Giffard.

“Each finalist will present their unique interpretation of this concept, incorporating Giffard’s premium range of liqueurs and syrups to craft signature cocktails that showcase their mastery of balance and creativity.”

The finalists are:

• Amy Walsingham, from Liverpool, with her Evermint cocktail – featuring Giffard Caramel Toffee and Creme de Menthe and inspired by her love of football and nostalgia for watching Everton with her Grandad and a bag of Everton mints;
• Araz Archlou from London with his Appleweald cocktail – featuring Giffard Sour Apple and non-alcoholic Elderflower liqueur, which celebrates his creative process;
• Gavin Lidbury from Glasgow with his Feline a Dram cocktail  – featuring Giffard Banane Du Brasil, Caramel Toffee and Islay Whiskey which captures his love of relaxing with a dram of whiskey and spending time with his cats;
• Sarah Gawne from Leicester with her Rosy Cheeks cocktail – featuring Giffard Rose Liqueur, Giffard Framboise Liqueur and East London Kew Gardens Gin with cider on the side. This brings to life Sarah’s passion for playing Rugby and is inspired by the Red Roses (England’s women’s team);

  

• Sonny Grillet-Laroumedie from Bristol with his Midnight Mischief cocktail – featuring Giffard Creme de Caco Blanc, Hazelnut Syrup and Fresh Monkey – a cocktail version of his favourite cake;
• Steve ‘Stevo’ Gleeson from Bath with his Môr cocktail – featuring Giffard Fleur de Sureau Sauvage, Ardbeg10 and Bergamot and Rooibos tea … a cocktail inspired his favourite piece of music to relax to.

  

“We are immensely proud of all the finalists who have demonstrated exceptional talent and dedication throughout the competition,” said Alex Robin, Northern Europe and Baltics brand ambassador at Giffard.

“The West Cup Finale is a celebration of their passion for mixology and the artistry they bring to every cocktail they create. We look forward to seeing the culmination of their hard work and innovation at Dear Darling.”