UK set for RumFest 2010

Top bartenders and brands will descend on London from 16-17 October for the UK RumFest, taking place at Kensington Olympia 2.

Timed to coincide with the end of London Cocktail Week, the event will feature two days of demonstrations, seminars, masterclasses, live salsa and samba dancing, sampling, a Tiki cocktail face-off and the chance to win a tropical holiday.

Over 400 rum brands will be present from across Asia, Central & South America, Africa and the Caribbean, including some of the rarest examples and the world’s most expensive rum, priced at an eye-watering £26,000.

The Tiki cocktail face-off will see teams from some of London’s most famous rum bars, such as Mahiki, compete against US opponents for the chance to be recognised as the best cocktail maker on both sides of the Atlantic.

Describing the event as “the world’s biggest celebration of rum,” organiser and UK rum ambassador Ian Burrell said: “Rum is not simply a drink but a lifestyle. The UK RumFest gives an insight into this way of life by celebrating its ever-growing popularity and a chance to pass on my passions to both bartenders and consumers alike.”

Now in its fourth year, the 2009 event attracted 4,900 rum lovers. For more information, visit http://rumfest.co.uk

Gabriel Savage, 17.08.2010