Our very own mixology wizard Jessica has been deservedly recognised for her talents in this year’s Chef and Bartender of the Year awards.

Jessica found herself head to head with seven of the best bartenders our casino group has to offer and was asked to design and create two wonderful, unique cocktails for the competition judges.

Her first, called 'The Forest', was skilfully delivered as part of a mystical woodland-themed landscape, complete with a tree-like glass. Ingredients included tequila, cognac, almond syrup, fresh pressed apple, a dash of lime, and ginger ale. Judges were blown away by the subtleties and levels of flavour, describing it as "fresh, earthy and sublime".

'Taste Of The Sea' combined Jessica's passion for the Sicilian landscape and sharp flavours. Her organically green cocktail was showcased within a treasure box with sand, dried seaweed and shells. Ingredients included Malibu, Bacardi Carta Blanca, cucumber, fresh lime, mint, and basil leaves.

Alea Nottingham’s Venue Director, Lee Hall, said: "We’re absolutely thrilled. Jessica's passion and commitment to deliver the highest quality cocktails always shines through. This is a well-deserved accolade.

With a mixture of natural flair and learnt skills from her home country of Sicily, Jessica can be found creating her wonderful cocktails in Bar Esquina.