Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Pinterest After an exciting national final for this year’s Patrón Perfectionists Cocktail Competition, Lawrence Christopher Gabriel came out on top and was named the Philippine representative to the Global Final held at Hacienda Patrón in Mexico in January 2022. Lawrence Gabriel with his winning cocktail, The Galleon His winning drink, The Galleon, impressed the judges with its inspiration and flavor. Named after the Spanish trading ships that used to link the Manila-Acapulco route between the 16th and early 19th centuries, The Galleon celebrates the exchange of ideas, inspiration, and cultures. This cocktail brings together ingredients and stories from the traditions that mixed over those centuries: Sherry, a tribute to Spain; spiced tea rub (matcha, salt, pepper) as a nod to the spices traded across the Pacific; vinegar, the ingredient used to preserve the food; coconut sugar syrup as a symbol of the Philippines; and Patrón Tequila, for Mexico. All these ingredients combine in harmony, all bringing something different to the final, delightful balance. This cocktail also encapsulates the essence of the Patrón Perfectionists: a competition that unites bartenders from all over the world to inspire and support each other. The Galleon Cocktail “The Galleon is not just a drink,” Lawrence shares. “It’s a story of how three beautiful countries are connected to each other: the Philippines, Spain, and Mexico. All of the ingredients I used have a reason to be there, story-wise and drink-wise. Also, the palate of consumers in our country is already evolving. That’s why I designed the drink to have the body of a Martini, but with the soul of a Margarita. Something different, but yet still familiar.” “I am very grateful to everyone who supported me, from voting to help me get to the top 10 up to the national finals,” says Lawrence. “I’ve always wanted to represent our country, and Patrón Perfectionists is a great platform not only to represent the Philippines and compete on an international level but to learn and connect from the bar industry around the globe.” This year’s virtual format proved challenging for Lawrence, but that did not stop him from giving his best. “It was really challenging performing just in front of a camera with no one else around,” he shares. “I took a lot of videos of myself to prepare and get used to it. The timing of the competition was also tricky because at that time most of the bars were closed, that’s why I did my performance in my bedroom.” Lawrence, the head bartender at Solaire’s Baccarat Room & Bar, has a solid plan to prepare for the Global Final. “I will study the comments of the judges to improve,” he shares. “Then will seek Jason’s (Jason Hussein Ali, Patrón Perfectionists Philippines 2019 champion) advice since he’s been there. I will also consult with other bartenders who’ve already represented our country to know what to expect, what needs to be done, and what it takes to be in a global competition. After that, I’ll do the necessary improvements and practice as much as I can.” “It feels great and overwhelming, and also a little pressuring,” he says about winning the national final. “I know that the Philippines is on other countries’ radar since Jason landed on last year’s top 7. But I know our local bartending community has my back to help me be the best that I can be.” Despite the nerves, he’s looking forward to heading to the Global Final.”I’m excited to be able to visit Hacienda Patrón and see the whole production process. Also to meet the other finalists, and other industry people that will be there, and learn as much as I can.” “Never stop learning, never stop pushing yourself,” he advises bartenders who want to join competitions. “There’s always room for improvement. Do not hesitate to ask for help if you need to. Not winning a competition doesn’t mean you lose. As Niño (Cruz, Bacardi Brand Ambassador) always says: either you win or you learn.” He’s taken that motto to heart. In work and in life, Lawrence Gabriel always looks to quench his thirst for knowledge and new flavors. Watch the replay of the virtual national finals through this link. For updates and to follow the progress of the competition on Facebook and PATRONPerfectionists.com.