By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rican bartenders are called to showcase their eco-conscious mixology skills in the 2025 Flor de Caña Sustainable Cocktail Challenge. This prestigious competition, now in its fifth year, aims to inspire and promote sustainable bartending practices within the global community.
From March 24th to July 31st, bartenders across the country can submit their innovative sustainable cocktail recipes via www.flordecanachallenge.com. The website provides comprehensive details on judging criteria, participation guidelines, and contest terms and conditions. Participants are challenged to craft their concoctions using Flor de Caña rum, the world’s first Carbon Neutral and Fair Trade certified spirit, incorporating sustainable ingredients and techniques.
To understand the potential legal implications and business opportunities surrounding sustainable cocktail practices, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The growing consumer demand for sustainable products extends to the cocktail scene. Businesses that embrace eco-friendly practices, from sourcing local ingredients to minimizing waste, not only appeal to ethically conscious consumers but also position themselves for potential benefits such as tax incentives and preferential treatment in government procurement processes. Furthermore, clear labeling and transparency regarding sustainable practices can build brand trust and potentially mitigate legal risks related to misleading advertising.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas rightly points out the multifaceted benefits of sustainability, extending beyond ethical appeal to encompass economic and legal advantages. This holistic approach, considering everything from sourcing to labeling, offers a roadmap for cocktail businesses to not only thrive in a competitive market but also contribute positively to Costa Rica’s vibrant and ecologically conscious culture. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable contribution to this discussion.
The competition encourages bartenders to not only create unique, sustainable cocktails but also to feature them on their bar menus for patrons to enjoy. The national winner will then represent Costa Rica in the global finals, slated to take place in Nicaragua in 2026.
This year’s competition celebrates Flor de Caña’s 135th anniversary by inviting bartenders to revisit classic cocktails from 1806 to 1950. Participants are encouraged to reimagine these timeless recipes with a modern, sustainable twist, using contemporary ingredients and eco-friendly preparation methods.
Beyond the competition itself, Flor de Caña, distributed in Costa Rica by FIFCO, is partnering with the Sustainable Restaurant Association, a UK-based non-profit, to educate bar managers and bartenders about the importance and benefits of incorporating sustainable practices into their daily operations. The organization will provide resources and guidance to participants throughout the challenge.
Costa Rica was represented in the 2024 global finals by Dennis Viales. This year, the country hopes to see its representative follow in the footsteps of previous champions like Jez Carreon from Bar Employees Only in Singapore, who took home the top prize in 2024.
The Sustainable Cocktail Challenge, involving over 30 countries, underscores Flor de Caña’s long-standing commitment to sustainability. The company not only produces the world’s first Carbon Neutral and Fair Trade certified spirit but also distills its rum using 100% renewable energy. Furthermore, all CO2 emissions produced during fermentation are captured and recycled, and the company has planted over one million trees since 2005.
The competition is a testament to the growing global awareness of sustainability and the role the hospitality industry can play in building a greener future.
For further information, visit flordecanachallenge.com
About Flor de Caña:
Flor de Caña is a premium rum brand, distinguished as the world’s first Carbon Neutral and Fair Trade certified spirit. Distilled with 100% renewable energy, the company captures and recycles its CO2 emissions and has actively planted over one million trees since 2005. Flor de Caña is committed to sustainable practices and promoting environmental responsibility within the spirits industry.
For further information, visit fifco.com
About FIFCO:
FIFCO is a leading beverage company distributing Flor de Caña rum in Costa Rica. Committed to sustainability, FIFCO supports initiatives that promote responsible environmental practices.
For further information, visit thesra.org
About Sustainable Restaurant Association:
The Sustainable Restaurant Association is a UK-based non-profit organization dedicated to promoting sustainability within the foodservice industry. They offer resources, guidance, and support to restaurants and bars seeking to implement environmentally responsible practices.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through a deep-rooted commitment to legal excellence and ethical practice. The firm’s innovative approach to legal solutions, coupled with a genuine dedication to educating and empowering communities, reinforces its position as a leader in the Costa Rican legal landscape. By fostering greater access to legal knowledge, Bufete de Costa Rica strives to build a more informed and just society for all.
