Appleton Estate has stirred up the bartending industry with its ‘On The Rum Bartenders’ competition, aimed at showcasing the creativity, skill, and craftsmanship behind the bar. 

After weeks of visiting multiple parishes and embracing this exciting and spirited competition, the grand announcement took place on Monday (July 28) at the New Kingston headquarters of J. Wray & Nephew. 

From a pool of talented mixologists, Kemar Atkinson, representing the Summit House, emerged as the ultimate winner.

The competition honoured Jamaica’s rum culture and the artistry of those that brings it to life. For Appleton Estate, the event marked a continued commitment to empowering bartenders and creating professional platforms for those in the sector.

Kemar Atkinson’s road to victory was as unexpected, as he championed the bold flavour profile of his winning cocktail—the Otaheite Spice. A blend of inspiration, natural ingredients, and personal touch, the drink reflected Atkinson’s deep observation of his boss’s palate.

“My boss at Summit House always wanted something different when he came to work and drilled it in us to try to create new mixes. So, based on observation I realized that he loves natural flavours for drinks and always adds a little spice to his food,” Kemar explained. 

“Suh mi sidung and just put together things I had around me. I have an apple tree at my house, so I picked some and got some scotch bonnet pepper, other small additives and brought the mixture together with Appleton 8-Year-Old rum—my boss’ favourite, and he loved it. That’s the cocktail I even entered this competition with.”

Despite entering the competition with some hesitation, Atkinson’s humility and gratitude were evident after his win.

“Words can’t explain, like, for real. The only thing I can say right now is thank God. I honestly didn’t think I’d win. I wasn’t getting much online support at first. But I took a chance, stepped out of my comfort zone, and now here we are. I just have to give thanks—especially to Miss Sharmon of JWN Academy, my boss and others who encouraged me to enter.”

Describing himself as a “shy guy” who doesn’t usually enjoy the spotlight, Atkinson said this opportunity allowed him to grow not just professionally, but personally.

“This win means a lot to me. And to Appleton Estate, I must lift my hat and say thank you. Thank you for believing in us bartenders and giving us a platform to shine. I have to say that I am somewhat of a shy guy and I don’t really like the camera, so this pushed me out of my comfort zone and it paid off.”

Atkinson also had a word for those considering a future in mixology, a profession that still sometimes struggles for recognition.

“Honestly, if you like it, if you have a passion for it, Just go ahead and do it. The sky’s the limit. Don’t limit yourself with just regular cocktails, and day to day mixes like a mojito and so on. Try to get creative. Go beyond that. Play with flavours and create someone new.”

According to Dominic Bell, communications manager at J. Wray & Nephew Limited, the Appleton Estate On The Rum competition is about creating lasting impact.

“Bartenders and mixologists are key ambassadors of the Appleton Estate experience,” Bell shared. “By empowering them, we not only strengthen brand advocacy but preserve the authenticity of Jamaican rum culture. The competition is a way to invest in the people who tell our brand story through crafting cocktails right across Jamaica to the world.’”

Participants benefited from exposure through media features, social media campaigns, and the in-trade promotion of the competition across Jamaica. The competition highlighted more than 35 participating accounts across the island and engaged over 30,000 voters, giving bartenders media exposure and a taste of national recognition.

Bell also emphasised the role of the competition in enhancing Jamaica’s tourism product.

“By spotlighting local mixologists, where they work, and encouraging innovation and professionalism in cocktail creation, the competition enhances Jamaica’s reputation as a preferred gastronomic destination for locals and tourists alike, not just for food and music, but for world-class cocktails too.”