It’s not every day that a masterclass walks into a bar. Yet on Monday, Black Panther Kampala opened its doors, not for business, but for mentorship.
The Tanqueray Masterclass, organised by Uganda Breweries Limited’s advocacy team, brought together more than 30 bartenders for a day of skills development, industry insights, and hands-on challenges designed to sharpen both craft and creativity.
Led by reserve brand ambassadors Melanie Kaita and Stephen Baguma, alongside bartenders Jane Apio, Joram Mukobe, Elwin Ssesanga, and Preston Abel, the training focused on the fundamentals of mixology while also addressing the business side of bartending.
Participants were taken through core concepts such as the “serve” and the “pour”, terms that define how drinks are presented and measured. From glassware and garnish to portion size and technique, the sessions emphasised consistency and decision-making behind the bar.
Beyond theory, bartenders engaged in practical drills that tested their ability to adjust cocktails on the spot, whether correcting a drink that was too strong or rebalancing one that leaned too sweet.
But it was the introduction of advanced techniques like fat washing and rice washing that captured the room’s attention. These methods, which enhance flavour and texture in spirits, offered a glimpse into the evolving craft of modern mixology.
“I’ve already learned a lot today. There were discoveries like fat washing and rice washing, those are fascinating techniques,” said Prossy Sakubona.
Sakubona, a bartender of three years, was among a notable number of female participants at the session. Her journey into the craft has seen her transition from bartending to working as a barista, before returning fully to mixology.
According to trainer Jane Apio, the turnout and engagement of women stood out.
“It was exciting to see so many ladies show up, not just show up, but actively participate,” she noted.
The masterclass also extended beyond the bar counter. Uganda Breweries Limited’s Zoe Zawedde led a session on personal branding, encouraging bartenders to build a presence on social media, grow their audiences, and consistently engage with followers as part of their professional growth.
In breakout sessions, participants were tasked with creating signature cocktails using Tanqueray No. Ten, before advancing to a high-pressure mix-off challenge that incorporated other reserve brands such as Don Julio and Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve.
One of the standout participants, Ssali Nassel, opted for a bold flavour profile, building his cocktails around lemon, complemented by rosemary and mint for aroma and taste.
The highlight of the day, however, was the mix-off. Bartenders, working in pairs, were challenged to prepare three cocktails in just two minutes, a task that proved difficult for many, with only a few managing to complete even two drinks within the time.
Judging the competition was Ivan Kanyesigye, a bartender at Silo 15 and one of the brains behind Cocktail City. He noted that better time management, particularly the use of both available shakers and effective planning, could have improved performance across the board.
In a surprise twist, Kanyesigye called for two standout female participants who had initially missed out on qualification to join the final round.
That is how Sakubona earned a second chance.
With precision and composure, she went on to deliver the only complete set of three cocktails within the two-minute window, finishing with seconds to spare and closing the day on a high note.
