Pernod Ricard UK has launched a new website which aims to transform the way bartenders network, debate and access information on all things drink-related. Created in collaboration with Henry Besant of the Worldwide Cocktail Club, the website boasts a glittering roll-call of ‘gurus’ including Ian Wisniewski (vodka), Geraldine Coates (gin), Dave Broom (rum and blended whiskies) Gary Regan (bars and booze) and Tom Estes (agave spirits), who will be contributing regular features and answering queries. There will also be truck-loads of historical information, downloadable (and searchable) vintage cocktail books and recipes courtesy of cocktail history boffins Jared Brown and Anistatia Miller.

Imbibe had a sneak preview and we have to say we were impressed – it was easy to navigate, with lots of click-through options for more information at every stage from cocktail ingredients featured in recipes to bartending legends, plus forums, message boards, job opportunities, articles and tutorial videos, and not an advert in sight. Subscribers can also get involved by posting their menus and adding recipes too. ‘There’s so much information out there, but it’s not all of good quality,’ said Besant. ‘And with this website we aim to change that. There’s an ethos with this of giving something back to the bartending community.’ Brandy guru Nicholas Faith adds: ‘And what’s so exciting, is it’s a first – so you have no idea what’s going to happen, and who’s going to get involved…’

News item from Imbibe.com, 01-06-2010