The world’s finest ultra-luxury cruise line, Seabourn, has announced a partnership with world-renowned mixologist Brian Van Flandern to enhance its bar offerings and create an exclusive cocktail menu for the award-winning fleet.
As the cruise line continues to develop its food and beverage offering in the lead up to the arrival of the world’s newest luxury ship, Seabourn Encore, in December, Van Flandern has been introducing premium new bar ingredients and educating and training bar staff on new and classic mixology techniques.
“We are honoured to bring Brian’s creative talents onboard our ships,” Seabourn Senior Vice President Global Marketing and Sales John Delaney said.
“Upgrading our complimentary bar and cocktail offerings is another enhancement to our product, and we are confident that these unique touches will continue to elevate our award-winning culinary experience. Guests will enjoy an expanded spirits list, which will include more premium and ultra-premium whiskeys, tequilas, and other spirits.”
Van Flandern will combine flavour-profiling with fresh produce and botanicals from ports that Seabourn visits to create a list of food-friendly cocktails with flavours from around the world. He will also work with Seabourn’s bar team to standardise the classics to provide guests with the same perfectly balanced and served cocktail throughout their cruise.
“There is a global revolution taking place right now in the beverage industry as an entire generation is witness to the new golden age of the cocktail,” Van Flandern said.
“I am delighted to join the Seabourn family, who share my philosophy that the guest experience is paramount and that fresh, quality ingredients are the key to a successful program.”
Dubbed “America’s Top Mixologist” by the Food Network, Van Flandern was part of the opening team for Thomas Keller’s restaurant Per Se in New York City as head barman in 2004, applying the chef’s philosophy of flavour-profiling behind the bar and discovering techniques to create well-balanced, food-friendly cocktails.
The Grill by Thomas Keller will debut onboard Seabourn Quest in May before being rolled out across the fleet.
Seabourn’s intimate ships offer key elements that set Seabourn apart: spacious, thoughtfully appointed suites, many with verandas; superb dining in a choice of venues; open bars throughout the ship; fine wines poured at lunch and dinner; award-winning personalised service and a relaxed, sociable atmosphere that makes guests feel right at home on board.
For more information on Seabourn cruises see a travel agent, call 13 24 02 or visit www.seabourn.com
SOURCE: Seabourn