A Donegal woman has shaken and stirred her way to becoming one of the world’s best cocktail makers.
Champion cocktail maker Deirdre Byrne.
Deirdre Byrne, 27, has just scooped a gold medal at the World Cocktail competition in Prague.
The Teelin woman was the first ever lady to represent the Bartenders Association of Ireland at the finals.
Deirdre, who works as a supervisor at the Exchange Restaurant and Cocktail Bar at the Westin Hotel in Dublin, won with her unique cocktail ‘Angel Fruit.’
Deirdre is a daughter of Joe and Martina Byrne and is the first Irish person to take home a gold medal from the prestigious bar awards for Ireland since 1982.
Deirdre’s mum Martina said she was delighted that all her daughter’s hard work had paid off.
“Deirdre loves working in The Exchange and all the staff there have been very supportive.
“They are very proud of her and so are we and she did Ireland proud,” she said.
Speaking after the competition, Declan Byrne, President of the Bartenders Association of Ireland commented: “Deirdre has set a new high standard for all bartenders to achieve. She was an excellent ambassador for Ireland and our hospitality industry on the world stage in Prague. The BAI are so proud of her and wish her many years of success for the future.
The following is Deirdre’s cocktail ‘Angel Fruit’ for any of those who feel like giving it a go!
4 cl Bombay Sapphire Gin 1.5 cl Villa Massa Limoncello 1.5 cl Martini Bianco 3 cl Finest Call Raspberry Puree 4 cl Caraibos Pure Fruit Juice Apple 1.5 cl Lemon Juice, Fresh Shake & Strain / Glass : Libbey Hobstar DOF no. 2651VCP35 Decoration: Apple, lime, Raspberry & Butternut Squash