The One Time I Won a Cocktail Competition …
Years ago, a cocktail competition unexpectedly changed the course of my creative career. At the time, I was deeply rooted in the automotive world—but storytelling, cinematography, and the art of crafting immersive experiences were always at my core.
When Thomas Henry Premium Mixers launched a video competition to introduce their Elderflower Tonic, it sparked two of my lifelong passions: film and flavor. I dove in headfirst—and to the surprise of the German bartender community, an unknown visual maverick took home first place.
That win wasn’t just a trophy—it was a door. It connected me with the cocktail and craft spirits scene in ways I never imagined, leading to rich friendships and cross-continental collaborations. The reward included a trip to the Manhattan Cocktail Classic, followed by multiple visits to Tales of the Cocktail in New Orleans. What began as a one-night shoot in Munich’s “Pacific Times” bar—featuring my good friend and bartender Arpad Nikhazi—blossomed into a new direction for my film journey: focusing on visual storytelling that captures sensuality, craftsmanship, and culture.
The video poked fun at the overly hyped “Hugo Sprizz,” offering a fresh, low-ABV twist that showcased both the drink’s and the tonic’s potential. The jury loved its humor, originality, and bold aesthetic—qualities I continue to bring to every project I direct.
Today, I focus on visual storytelling that brings brands, people, and products to life—especially those rooted in taste, texture, and experience. Whether it’s spirits, design, or lifestyle, I craft cinematic narratives that resonate deeply.