In an exciting outcome, Yon Pavón has been crowned the Ultimate Rum-Bartender 2025 in the third edition of the prestigious The Ultimate Rum-Bartender competition. Pavón, recognized for his creativity and skill with rum-based cocktails, was chosen by a panel of expert judges as the best bartender of the competition, standing out for his innovation and exceptional mixology skills.
The jury, composed of leading figures in the rum and cocktail industry such as Don Pancho Fernández, José Rafa Malem, Gastón Santadrue and last year winner Oscar Lafuente, among others, rigorously evaluated the participants, highlighting the originality and presentation of Pavón’s creations, which surpassed an outstanding list of international competitors.
Second place in the competition went to Jonathan Cerna (El Salvador), who stood out for his impeccable technique and innovative cocktail proposal, while third place went to Nando Arcaya (Ecuador), who also impressed with his skill and creativity.
Carlos Escobar, meanwhile, was recognized with the Best Campaign Promoting the Competition award, thanks to his successful social media strategy, which mobilized thousands of voters and generated great interest in the competition. Escobar obtained a total of 1427 votes, out of the 10,882 votes received in total, demonstrating the powerful connection he was able to create with the audience.
The Ultimate Rum-Bartender 2025 competition was held under the direction of experts such as Federico Hernández, Carlos Riveros and Pablo Mosquera, who have managed to consolidate this competition as one of the most important events in the world of rum and mixology.
The awards ceremony will take place at the Spain Rum & Gin Expo 2025, May 8-9, 2025, at Plaza Caleido, Madrid, where the winners will receive their prizes and be celebrated for their skill and passion for rum.
About The Ultimate Rum-Bartender
The Ultimate Rum-Bartender is an international competition that celebrates the creativity and skill of the world’s best bartenders in crafting rum cocktails. The event seeks to promote the global appreciation of rum and highlight the art of bartending, bringing together industry experts to share their passion for this iconic drink.
