In an industry where excellence is poured in glasses and innovation can be sipped through a straw, the prestigious 15th edition of ‘The World’s 50 Best Bars’ took center stage in Singapore, sponsored by Perrier, the spotlight was on Sips, a cocktail bar in Barcelona that has shaken and stirred its way to the top, clinching the title of the best bar in the world for 2023.
A celebratory ttmosphere in Singapore
The ‘World’s 50 Best Bars’ event brought together the crème de la crème of the global bar industry, unfolding not just the much-awaited rankings but also marking the debut of ’50 Best Signature Sessions.’ These sessions celebrated groundbreaking collaborations featuring leading talents in culinary arts and cocktail crafting on a global scale, further elevating the event’s grandeur.
Sips, with its innovative approach and enchanting concoctions, had already made a significant impact in the previous year, securing a spot among the top three. This year, however, it mesmerized the judges, its allure irresistible, thus ascending to the throne of this spirited realm.
Deciphering the selection process
The revered list was meticulously curated through votes cast by 680 members of the Voting Academy, each chosen for their expert opinion and comprehensive knowledge of the world’s bar scene. The process ensures a balanced selection of bars and cocktails, reflecting global trends and pioneering concepts.
Regional chairs, appointed based on their profound understanding of their sectors, spearheaded the process. They navigated through seas of cocktail menus, distilling the essence of what makes each bar stand out, ensuring an unbiased representation across the spectrum.
Spanish bars: A toast to excellence
The list, prestigious and coveted, featured three Spanish jewels this year: Madrid’s Salmon Guru, ranking 16th, and Barcelona’s Paradiso at 4th place. But it was Sips that claimed the crown, continuing the legacy of Paradiso, the previous year’s champion. The shift of the crown has stayed within Barcelona, affirming the city’s status as a powerhouse in the global cocktail scene.
A glimpse of the winning concoction
One of the cocktails that undoubtedly left the judges spellbound was a masterpiece of balance and flavor: the Strawberry Jasmine Brandy Delight. Below is a sneak peek of the recipe that marries traditional spirits with avant-garde mixology:
Ingredients
- Brandy Fundador Sherry Cask: 45 ml
- Palo Cortado Harvey: 15 ml
- Clarify Strawberry Juice infused with Jasmin: 80 ml
- Simple Syrup: 2.5 ml
- Saturated Citric Solution: 5 ml
Instructions
- Begin by combining the Brandy Fundador Sherry Cask, Palo Cortado Harvey, Clarify Strawberry Juice infused with Jasmin, Simple Syrup, and Saturated Citric Solution in a mixing glass.
- With grace, stir gently, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully.
- Strain this elegant mixture into your chosen glass, witnessing the fusion of colors and aromas.
- Finally, take a moment to appreciate the artistry before savoring the Strawberry Jasmine Brandy Delight.
For cocktail enthusiasts and curious minds alike, more of these innovative creations and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the world of high-end mixology can be found on their Instagram page: Sips Barcelona Instagram.
This recognition of Sips isn’t just a win for the bar. It’s a nod to Spain’s burgeoning cocktail culture, a testament to the country’s ability to innovate, inspire, and create beauty, one drink at a time. The accolade serves as a reminder that whether in the realm of art, cuisine, or cocktails, Spain continues to charm the world with its vibrant spirit and relentless creativity.
