The London Spirits Competition is renowned for bringing together top talents in the spirits industry, and Enrico Chiappini is no exception. As the Head Bartender at Dukes Hotel, where he’s worked for nearly 17 years, Enrico brings a wealth of experience, having been in the industry for over 25 years. His journey began in San Benedetto Del Tronto, Italy, and took him through some of Italy’s most prestigious locations, including Cortina and Lake Como, before landing him in London.

Enrico’s career has seen him rise from a young bartender to a respected head bartender at one of the most iconic hotels in the world. His passion for spirits and hospitality is evident, and his years behind the bar give him a unique perspective on the spirits industry.

Judging at the London Spirits Competition

Enrico became a judge at the London Spirits Competition because of his desire to explore new trends and exchange ideas with fellow industry professionals.

"I like to explore the new trends coming into the market and exchange ideas with fellow bartenders. The London Spirits Competition is the perfect opportunity to do that," Enrico shares.

Enrico Chiappini with Sid Patel. CEO and Founder of Beverage Trade Network

Why Spirits Brands Should Enter the London Spirits Competition

When asked why distilleries and spirits brands should consider entering the London Spirits Competition, Enrico points to the competition’s ability to provide valuable insight into both trends and competitors.

"London Spirits Competition is the perfect ground for both new and established spirits to check the trends and the competitors, helping them find their place in the market," he explains.

Winning a medal at the London Spirits Competition isn’t just about recognition—it’s about standing out in a crowded and competitive marketplace. Enrico believes that winning carries significant weight and can enhance a brand's visibility, especially among bartenders.

"Winning at LSC helps a spirit become more visible to the bartender community, building their branding and sales," he adds.

Enrico’s Process for Evaluating Spirits

Enrico’s approach to evaluating spirits is centered around quality, value, and packaging, but his real focus is on uniqueness.

"Besides the obvious characteristics of taste and value, I’m really looking for spirits that are unique—ones that carve their niche and fill a gap in the market," Enrico says.

He explains that the ability to identify a product’s potential to stand out in the marketplace is a crucial element of his judging process.

London Spirits Competition Judges 

Enrico’s Strength as a Judge: Over Two Decades of Expertise

With nearly 25 years in the industry, Enrico’s palate is refined, and his experience gives him the ability to distinguish between a good and an exceptional product.

"I’ve been in the industry for a long time, and my palate reflects that. I can recognize a good product from an excellent one, and I understand and appreciate the subtle undertones in each spirit," he shares.

His experience working in diverse bars across Italy and London gives him a comprehensive understanding of what works in the market.

Emerging Trends in the UK Spirits Market

When it comes to trends in the UK spirits market, gin remains a staple, but Enrico is seeing a rise in mezcal, particularly in cocktails.

"While gin is still very popular, mezcal is gaining momentum, especially in cocktail variations of classic drinks," Enrico notes.

Image: 2024 London Spirits Competition, Ronda De Almas - Mezcal of the Year

Advice for New Spirits Brands Entering the UK Market

Enrico offers valuable advice for new spirits brands looking to break into the UK market: focus on uniqueness and stay close to the bar community.

"It’s important to identify a gap in the market and fill it. Speak to bartenders about what they and their customers are looking for, and craft your product’s story accordingly," he advises.

What UK Consumers Are Looking For

Beyond taste and value, Enrico has noticed that consumers in the UK are increasingly seeking spirits with visually appealing packaging.

"Consumers want a bottle that not only tastes great but also looks great—something that stands out on the shelf and can be featured in their Instagram stories," he observes.

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Enrico’s Personal Recommendation: The Magic of Scotch Whisky

When asked about his personal favorite, Enrico’s passion for whisky shines through.

"As a whisky collector, Scotch whisky is always my go-to. Whether it’s a Speyside whisky or a peated Islay, it’s a perfect way to end an evening, whether you’re a connoisseur or just starting out," he recommends.

For any distillery or spirits brand, entering the London Spirits Competition is a strategic move that offers industry-wide recognition, valuable exposure, and the chance to stand out in a competitive market. Winning an award is more than just a medal—it’s a testament to your product’s quality and uniqueness, validated by experts like Enrico Chiappini.

The Early Bird pricing for the 2025 London Spirits Competition runs from 01 September 2024 to 30 November 2024. This is the perfect time to secure your entry and position your brand for success in the UK and international markets. Enter now and let your spirits shine on the global stage!

Header Image: On the left: Cristiana Pirinu from Donovan Bar and on the right: Enrico Chiappini from Dukes Hotel.