Raising the bar in the Maldives, one sustainable sip at a time – Eresta Diantara of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands named Maldives winner

Marriott International is once again stirring creativity behind the bar with the return of 2025 APEC Sustainable Bartender Championship ‘Rising Stars’. Now in its second year, the competition brought together eight talented bartenders from across Marriott Bonvoy portfolio of resorts in the Maldives, each challenged to reimagine classic cocktails through the lens of sustainability. Held on July 12, 2025, at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, the event served as a platform to spotlight emerging mixologists who are redefining the craft by blending zero-waste techniques with local narratives and culturally rooted ingredients. The evening culminated with Eresta Diantara, representing The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, being named Maldives winner, earning the opportunity to represent the country at the Asia Pacific excluding China (APEC) Regional Finals this September in Bangkok, Thailand.

With the theme ‘Reviving Forgotten Ingredients’, the 2025 edition inspired participants to explore underutilized island-grown elements, from upcycled garnishes to indigenous fruits and herbs. Each drink reflected thoughtful technique and a deep sense of place. The eight finalists represented The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands; 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 host resort Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa.

Eresta’s winning cocktail, Golden Atoll, paid tribute to the balance between tradition and nature that defines the Maldivian identity. Beneath the golden sun, where turquoise waves kiss pristine sands, the atolls shimmer like scattered jewels across the Indian Ocean. Life here is a dance of resilience and sustainability. Golden Atoll captures this harmony in a glass—a vibrant, elegant creation that tells the story of the islands’ rich heritage and their enduring connection to the ocean and land.

“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.”

“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.”

The APEC Regional Finals will be held over two days in Bangkok, Thailand, in September 2025, bringing together top bartenders from across the region. The program will feature workshops, brand-led immersions, and networking sessions, offering participants a chance to further hone their craft and engage with leaders in the regional mixology scene. The competition will culminate in the naming of the 2025 APEC Marriott International Sustainable ‘Rising Star’, who will be awarded a grand prize that includes an expenses-paid visit to the House of Código in Mexico, one of Pernod Ricard Brand Homes, regional media exposure, and a guest bartending tour across some of Asia Pacific’s most celebrated bars.

The 2025 APEC Sustainable Bartender Championship reflects Marriott International’s ongoing dedication to responsible hospitality, proving that exceptional craft and sustainability go hand in hand. As a regional platform, the competition celebrates inventive talent, brings local ingredients to the forefront, and encourages purposeful progress throughout Asia Pacific. Guided by Marriott International’s Serve 360 commitment, the program continues to reimagine mixology as a space where creativity meets conscious impact, shaping a more sustainable future for the beverage industry.

To know more about Marriott Bonvoy portfolio of resorts in the Maldives, please visit www.marriott.com/maldives.