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Rarely is the name of a cruise ship so appropriately in tune with an activity. Carnival Cruise Lines’ global vice president of beverage operations Eddie Allen is currently visiting Australia to learn more about the drinking habits and preferences of Australian cruise travellers. The native Texan mixing-master this week invited a select group of media aboard Carnival Spirit in Sydney to introduce some of the creations Aussie cruisers are able to enjoy both on Spirit and sister vessel Carnival Legend – which cruises into Sydney this Sep. Joining the occasion, Carnival Cruise Lines’ vice-president Australia Jennifer Vandekreeke told Cruise Update drink menus would be aligned on both ships. Allen shook and stirred a pair of concoctions (pictured below) which are sure to become raging favourites with Aussie passengers. The two drinks sampled on the day – Cucumber Surprise and a Spicy Pineapple Martini – are soon to be introduced to the ships and expected to price around $10.50 – more than worthwhile as both would cost approx $17 on land. Allen said he believed there was a fine art in the making of a quality cocktail, both in the showmanship but also in the presentation and in ensuring the right balance is maintained with the ingredients, as it was easy to spoil a drink with too much of a particular inclusion. “Beverage is my passion” said the 18-year industry veteran, who holds an advanced diploma from the American Sommelier Association. Allen’s drink design pedigree is extensive – he has crafted menus in some of the world’s most glamorous restaurants, bars and nightclubs in cities including Las Vegas, Miami and New York City. He paid glowing tribute to Australia’s wine industry, praising the quality labels coming from wine regions all over the country, adding that wine was such a big part of the Australian culture. In addition to studying Australia’s cruise ship drinking styles, Allen said he was also here to refine drink menus as part of Legend’s ‘Aussification’. Eddie Allen and Jennifer Vandekreeke are pictured above aboard Carnival Spirit. |
