Canadian Kaitlyn Stewart was crowned the world’s best bartender at the Diageo World Class Bartender of the Year 2017 competition in Mexico City. Stewart, a Vancouver bartender, is the second woman ever to win the event after outlasting more than 10,000 competitors from 57 countries. Fifty-five finalists of regional competitions met in Mexico City on August 20.
“I’m so delighted,” Stewart said in a press release. “Cocktails are on the up now more than ever and to be at the forefront of that, pushing forward the idea of using better ingredients and better recipes to create even better cocktails is something I’m really passionate about and I’ve loved every moment of this experience.”
Jennifer Le Nechet of France was the first woman to claim the title in 2016.
Stewart will spend a year traveling around the world as a Diageo Reserve brand ambassador, judge contests and make custom cocktails.
HALL & WALT Promotions
St. Helena, California-based HALL & WALT has announced that Emily Harrison is now vice president, Direct Relationships, responsible for creating and executing the HALL & WALT strategic vision. Harrison will continue to deepen the brand’s relationships with existing customers and will oversee the Membership, Marketing, Public Relations, Ecommerce and Shipping departments.
Jamie Chandler has been promoted to director of Marketing & Messaging. Chandler was formerly the creative manager for the Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir brands. In his new role, Chandler will oversee strategic marketing initiatives, email campaigns, digital advertising, brand messaging and creative services.
Myriah Mutrux is the new director of Hospitality for the winery’s St. Helena Tasting Room. Mutrux previously led the Private Experience department at the winery and hosted the 2015 Auction Napa Valley Barrel Auction. Mutrux will lead the hospitality team and manage the overall guest experience at HALL St. Helena.
Last Updated: May 4, 2023
