Kenilworth's best cocktail-makers battle it out in competition

Kenilworth's finest mixologists pitted their creations against each other at a cocktail competition held in Marco's New York Italian yesterday (Thursday July 21).
Winner Gayle Selby with finalists Sheerah Wright and Vicky FawcettWinner Gayle Selby with finalists Sheerah Wright and Vicky Fawcett
Winner Gayle Selby with finalists Sheerah Wright and Vicky Fawcett

The three finalists mixed their own personal cocktails for each judge, who rated the drinks on taste, presentation and flair.

After much deliberation from the five judges, first prize was awarded to Gayle Selby, of Woodcote Avenue, for her ‘Kenilworth Sunset Kiss’ creation.

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Loaded with vodka, Malibu, pineapple juice and a layer of grenadine, the drink will now appear on Marco’s cocktail menu after a bit of tweaking.

The winning cocktail, 'Kenilworth Sunset Kiss'The winning cocktail, 'Kenilworth Sunset Kiss'
The winning cocktail, 'Kenilworth Sunset Kiss'

Gayle, who is part of a cocktail club with three of her friends including fellow finalist Sheerah Wright, explained how she was inspired to make the ‘Kenilworth Sunset Kiss’.

She said: “I have a great view of the sunset over Kenilworth Castle from my house, and this cocktail goes very well with that view.

“I wanted to try and combine a Pina Colada with a Tequila Sunrise. I tried a lot of variations.”

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The two other finalists, Vicky Fawcett and Sheerah, will see their creations appear on the Christmas menu as their cocktails were also judged to be worthy of inclusion.

The winning cocktail, 'Kenilworth Sunset Kiss'The winning cocktail, 'Kenilworth Sunset Kiss'
The winning cocktail, 'Kenilworth Sunset Kiss'

Deputy Manager of Marco’s Louise Sheepy, who came up with the idea to hold a competition, was very pleased with the evening.

She said: “I really enjoyed the evening and so did the finalists - we had really great feedback.

“We’ll need to speak to Gayle to see when she’s available and talk about getting her cocktail on the menu, but we’re aiming for late August.”

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