After a nationwide search, Sarah Ewing from The Thomas Green in Gore was awarded the title of New Zealand’s top Heineken bartender at the Heineken Star Serve Bartender Finals in Auckland on Saturday. Walking away with a win at the national competition, Ewing will now travel to Amsterdam in October to represent New Zealand at the Heineken Star Serve Global Finals.
Ewing was one of 32 semi-finalists in the competition, which challenged competitors from all over New Zealand to pour the perfect glass of Heineken draught beer, adhering to the five Star Serve steps – rinse, pour, skim, check and serve.
Franck Evers, Heineken Global Draught Master, flew from Amsterdam to judge the competition and said that he was very impressed with the talent demonstrated in New Zealand.
“It is clear to see that New Zealand has a very high standard when it comes to service and adherence to the five steps that make up the perfect serve,” said Evers. “We take huge pride in the quality of our beer and the Heineken International Star Serve ritual ensures that bartenders from around the world deliver a premium Heineken draught beer every time, no matter where in the world you may be, whether it’s a beach bar in Brazil or rooftop bar in New York.”
“More and more I’m learning that it is a craft to pour a good looking, good tasting Heineken. It’s not only about the end product, but also about the care in working through the steps for the customers,” said Ewing of her perfect pour. “You not only want them to enjoy the taste of their Heineken but also to visually enjoy the steps it takes to serve it perfectly.”
