This past July, the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino and sister complex properties Marriott’s Aruba Ocean & Surf Clubs held their annual Masters of the Craft competition. The internal competition invites associates to compete in culinary and craft cocktail events, judged by local industry professionals.

The craft cocktail competition saw bartenders from a variety of restaurants, bars, and lounges throughout the three resorts competing in a mystery basket format. Armed with all the tools necessary to craft their inspiration, competitors shopped an on-site market with everything from fresh herbs and produce to liquors, liqueurs, and bitters. The mystery ingredient was tamarind, a fruit from a leguminous tree that can be found growing around the island. The fruit has a sweet and sour taste with caramel notes and a slightly earthy undertone.

One of the award-winning cocktails was crafted by Juan Camilo, a bartender at Campeones, Marriott Ocean Club’s new restaurant featuring authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. His cocktail, named “Mis Raices” (meaning my roots), used tequila as the foundation, but the surprise touch of Balashi Beer as the supporting star captured our attention! Served martini-style, it’s layered with a taste of the tropics and refreshing to the palate, making it a great companion to the colorful Latin flavors of Campeones.

For the cocktail enthusiasts that want to try at home, Juan shared his recipe with us:

 Mis Raices

• 1.5 oz Patrón Tequila Anejo
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1.5 oz tamarind juice
• 1 oz pineapple juice
• 1 oz hibiscus juice (or grapefruit juice)
• 1 dash bitters

Put all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and shake well for 10 seconds. Strain liquid into chilled martini glass and top off with a splash of Balashi Beer.

Enjoy!