The first Cheltenham Industry Week promises a great celebration of the town’s food and drink commerce, featuring events for both the public and industry insiders.
Welcoming hard-working hospitalitarians to come together, the event offers the chance to learn, share facts, participate in some healthy competition, and broaden their knowledge – as well as showcasing their talents to the public.
SoGlos has listed the week’s events below; for more information and to buy tickets visit cheltenhamindustryweek.co.uk directly.
Monday 17 September
Cheltenham’s Bartender of the Year, from 12pm
Starting at The Ox, Cheltenham’s Bartender of the Year comprises five bars, five competitions and only one winner. There’ll be a classic gin contest to start, followed by some secret challenges to keep bartenders on their toes – the winner will receive some great prizes and the coveted crown.
Tuesday 18 September
Aperitivo Italiano, from 3.30pm (Industry Only)
The industry will be heading to Fat Toni’s to enjoy an Aperitivo tasting with a twist of Boutique Brands’ Sette Vie Italian Liqueurs range. There’s also the chance to sample some of the eatery’s tasty treats too.
From Grain to Bottle, from 7pm
Taking place at John Gordons, this evening event promises to be seriously delightful; Hi-Spirits will treat guests to a tantalising tasting of its Grain to Bottle range.
Wednesday 19 September
Tequila x Mezcal = Delicious, from 3pm (Industry Only)
An expedition to the Cheltenham’s Mexican eatery Paparritos, the industry can enjoy tequila, Mezcal and Tacos. They’ll also learn all about the world of agave from El Jimador Tequila and Montelobos Mezcal.
Gin Night – Tequila Takeover, from 7pm
Over at The Fire Station, there’s the chance to enjoy a Gin Night with a difference – less gin and more tequila! Guests will get a welcome drink, full tasting session with an El Jimador brand ambassador, and Mexican nibbles to pair with the spirit.
Thursday 20 September
Vodka vs Gin – The Martini, from 3pm (Industry Only)
The industry can head to The Ox to find out which spirit comes out on top – vodka or gin; join Elephant Gin and Black Cow Vodka and hear the pros and cons of each version of a classic Martini.
What’s more, there’ll be a talk from top Bristol bartender, James McGovern, who’ll explore the history of the two cocktails, and share insights into why we drink what we drink.
Gin & Oysters – Vodka & Cheese, from 7pm
Continuing into the evening at The Ox, visitors will experience one classic food and drink pairing, versus a modern pairing. Brand ambassadors from Elephant Gin and Black Cow Vodka will lead the tasting session, which includes a martini of the guest’s choice and nibbles.
Friday 21 September
Low ABV on the Rise, from 3pm
Lily Gins will play host to a discussion about low alcohol cocktails, exploring how the trend is affecting trade in bars, and what steps to take next.
Escape to Cuba, from 6pm
Complete with barbecue, Cuban DJ and nothing but rum at the bar, revellers can Escape to Cuba at Lily Gins. Choose a tipple from the six-drink cocktail menu created by the bar’s team; enjoy a host of delicious dishes from on of the region’s best chefs, Seedy Faal; and party to Havana beats from the brilliant DJ Green Papi.
Saturday 22 September
Gin Tub Time Machine, from 7pm
Go on a journey through time and gin at The Wild Beer Co. Starting in 1793 with Plymouth Gin, through to Cotswolds Gin, expect delicious drinks, history and knowledge.
Sunday 23 September
CAMPARI UK Presents: The Bartenders Ball, from 7.30pm
Drinks, food and music are on the menu at The Bartenders Ball, taking place at The Fire Station. Guests can don their glad rags for a night of awards, the presentation of Cheltenham’s Bartender of the Year prize, and the chance for a get together to end the week of festivities.
For more information and to buy tickets visit cheltenhamindustryweek.co.uk directly.
