Maldives Bartender Masters Sustainability

The Ritz-Carlton’s Eresta Diantara Triumphs in Regional Competition

A pursuit of eco-conscious mixology is elevating the spirits in the Maldives. Eresta Diantara of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, has been crowned the Maldives’ champion in the 2025 APEC Sustainable Bartender Championship ‘Rising Stars’.

Reviving Forgotten Flavors Take Center Stage

Marriott International’s second annual competition challenged eight accomplished bartenders from its Maldivian resorts to reimagine classic cocktails with a focus on sustainability. Held at the Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa on July 12, 2025, the event championed zero-waste practices and the integration of local narratives. The overarching theme, ‘Reviving Forgotten Ingredients,’ urged participants to explore underutilized island produce and upcycled garnishes, infusing their creations with a distinct sense of place.

The eight finalists hailed from prestigious properties including The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, W Maldives, JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa, and the host, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa.

Golden Atoll Captures Island Essence

Eresta Diantara secured the win with a cocktail named Golden Atoll. This creation thoughtfully embodies the balance of tradition and nature intrinsic to Maldivian identity, telling a story of heritage and the islands’ profound connection to the ocean and land. The drink itself is described as a vibrant, elegant composition.

“This year’s Bartender Championship is a celebration of heritage, innovation, and sustainability. Under the theme ‘Reviving Forgotten Ingredients,’ we’re diving deep into the rich and often overlooked local flavors of the Maldives,” said Egbert Casasas, Senior Director of Operations, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International. “Together with our valued partner, Pernod Ricard, we’re uncovering remarkable talents while elevating the role of bartending in shaping a more sustainable, revenue-driven hospitality future. Today, our finalists competed on the destination level — and come September, Eresta Diantara will represent the Maldives among Asia Pacific’s finest, carrying the essence of our islands in every pour.”

—Egbert Casasas, Senior Director of Operations, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International

Regional Finals Beckon in Bangkok

Eresta Diantara will now represent the Maldives at the Asia Pacific excluding China (APEC) Regional Finals in Bangkok, Thailand, this September. The two-day event will bring together leading bartenders from across the region for workshops, brand immersions, and networking opportunities. A recent report highlighted that sustainable practices in the hospitality sector can improve brand reputation and reduce operational costs by up to 10% (Hospitality Net).

“Winning the APEC Sustainable Bartender Championship ‘Rising Stars’ is truly one of the proudest moments of my career. Representing the Maldives on this stage has been an incredible honor,” said Eresta Diantara, Bar Supervisor at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands. “The preparation journey took nearly a month — from carefully sourcing sustainable ingredients and refining the concept, to ensuring the drink was visually striking and aligned with the values of sustainability. Every detail counted. Looking ahead to the finals, what excites me most is the opportunity to connect with talented bartenders from across the region. Beyond the competition, it’s the friendships and shared passion that make this experience unforgettable.”

—Eresta Diantara, Bar Supervisor at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands

The ultimate winner will receive a grand prize including an all-expenses-paid trip to the House of Código in Mexico, a Pernod Ricard Brand Home, regional media exposure, and a guest bartending tour across premier Asian Pacific venues. The championship underscores Marriott International’s dedication to responsible hospitality, showcasing how creativity and sustainability can harmoniously coexist within the beverage industry.