Appleton Estate Crowns ‘Shy Guy’ Jamaica’s Bartender of the Year

Kemar Atkinson of Summit House wins top honors with his Otaheite Spice cocktail in Appleton Estate’s national mixology competition. With over 35 bars and 30,000 public votes, the event spotlighted local talent and Appleton’s commitment to bartending excellence

JWN and Appleton Estate executives pose with competition winner Kemar Atkinson

Appleton Estate’s On The Rum Bartenders’ Competition wrapped up with a spirited finale on July 28 at the J. Wray & Nephew HQ in New Kingston, celebrating the island’s rum culture and bar craftsmanship.

Kemar Atkinson of Summit House took top honors, impressing judges with his bold, flavourful creation, the Otaheite Spice, a cocktail inspired by his boss’s palate and crafted with natural ingredients and personal flair.

The event reinforced Appleton Estate’s ongoing commitment to supporting bartenders and elevating mixology across Jamaica.

“My boss at Summit House always wanted something different when he came to work and drilled it in us to try to create new mixes. So, based on observation I realized that he loves natural flavours for drinks and always adds a little spice to his food,” Atkinson explained.

“Suh mi sidung and just put together things I had around me. I have an apple tree at my house, so I picked some and got some scotch bonnet pepper, other small additives and brought the mixture together with Appleton 8-Year-Old rum—my boss’ favourite, and he loved it. That’s the cocktail I even entered this competition with.”

Despite entering with hesitation, Atkinson’s humility shone through after his win. “Words can't explain, like, for real. The only thing I can say right now is thank God. I honestly didn’t think I’d win," shared Atkinson, describing himself as a “shy guy”. “I just have to give thanks, especially to Miss Sharmon of JWN Academy, my boss and others who encouraged me to enter.”

Kemar Atkinson of The Summit House, winner of the Appleton Estate On The Rum Bartenders’ Competition

Atkinson also offered words of encouragement to those considering a future in mixology, a craft he believes still fights for full recognition. “This win means a lot to me. And to Appleton Estate, I must lift my hat and say thank you. Thank you for believing in us bartenders and giving us a platform to shine. Honestly, if you like it, if you have a passion for it, Just go ahead and do it. The sky's the limit.”

According to Dominic Bell, Communications Manager at JWN, the Appleton Estate On The Rum competition is about creating lasting impact.

“Bartenders and Mixologists are key ambassadors of the Appleton Estate experience,” Bell shared. “By empowering them, we not only strengthen brand advocacy, but preserve the authenticity of Jamaican rum culture. The competition is a way to invest in the people who tell our brand story through crafting cocktails right across Jamaica to the world.’”

Third-place winner and top-placing female, Shannamar Smith of The Ultimate Dining, Mandeville

Customer Service Rep Shantelle Myrie (left) shares a moment with Sales Rep Anthea Callam

With over 35 participating bars and more than 30,000 public voters, bartenders enjoyed widespread exposure through media features, social media campaigns, and in-trade promotions across Jamaica.

Bell also emphasized the event’s role in elevating Jamaica’s tourism offering, showcasing the island’s rich rum culture and world-class mixology talent. “By spotlighting local mixologists, where they work, and encouraging innovation and professionalism in cocktail creation, the competition enhances Jamaica’s reputation as a preferred gastronomic destination for locals and tourists alike, not just for food and music, but for world-class cocktails too.”

Looking ahead, Appleton Estate envisions a strong, skilled community of mixologists proudly representing Jamaica on the world stage. The brand remains committed to investing in education, exposure, and community-building to elevate bartending into a globally respected and aspirational career locally.