Jose Cuervo, the world’s leading tequila, have challenged bartenders all over Ireland to mix things up by creating a Cuervo Tradicional margarita with a twist. Having narrowed competitors down to 10, the live final will take place tomorrow, Tuesday 14, in Opium, Dublin from 12pm to 6pm. The event is exclusively for the finalists of the competition.

Finalists will be judged by a panel of experts, including Jose Cuervo Tequila Educator Oli Pergl, 2018 Dublin winner Andrew Ennis, 2018 Belfast winner Jonny Shaw and Hot Press’ very own Edwina Van Kuyk.

Each competitor will be judged on their inventiveness and quality in both recipe and presentation, as well as a high level of technical skill. One lucky winner will receive an unforgettable trip to the home of Jose Cuervo in Tequila, Mexico.

Oli Pergl, the head judge for the competition, has said, “The margarita owes its character to tequila, which is the spirit that captures the heart and soul of Mexico, including its traditions, its magic, and its history.” The Tequila Educator goes on to say, “Tequila infuses the margarita with fun and intensity and gives it an edge over other cocktails and spirits. Being a versatile cocktail, I look forward to seeing some unique recipes unfold during the competition”.

The 2019 finalists are:

Blane McNab - The Jamaica Inn, Co. Down

Cheryl Devine - Tribeton, Co. Galway

Daniel Terceiro - Nolita, Co. Dublin

David Richard Coe - Fitzgerald Room, Co. Waterford

Max McPherson - Bootleggers, Co. Belfast

Pardraig Storey - The Front Door, Co. Galway

Patrick Orr - Fitzwilliam Hotel Bar, Co. Belfast

Petr Navrat - Coppinger Row, Co. Dublin

Seamus Og Birt - Me & Mrs Jones, Co. Derry

Siobhan Darker - Nolita, Co. Dublin