Glasgow bartender to have cocktail served at The Open

Branford Edgar, a mixologist from Kelvingrove Café, impressed judges with his Solstice Sling at The Serve of The Open, an annual contest run by Ben Lomond Gin.

His creation will now be served to thousands of spectators at The Open Championship, set to take place this July at Royal Birkdale.

Brandon, who grew up in Glasgow and credits his passion for cocktails to watching his father make margaritas at home, began his career at Missoula (now Slug & Lettuce) before moving on to 1802 at Hutcheson’s Hall.

He has spent the past three years at Kelvingrove Café.

Inspired by his brother's commitment to golf, Brand created the Solstice Sling to capture the atmosphere of summer morning golf.

It features Ben Lomond Scottish Gin, caramelised honeydew and basil cordial, lime juice, sugar syrup and ginger beer, garnished with a fresh basil leaf.

The cocktail is intended to reflect the coastal setting and long daylight hours at Royal Birkdale, with a blend of citrus, sweetness and herbal notes.

Glasgow bartender to have original cocktail showcased at The Open at Royal Birkdale (Image: Ben Lomond Premium Scottish Gin)

Explaining the idea behind the cocktail, Brandon said: "My brother is an incredibly talented and dedicated golfer.

"He’ll wake up at 4.30am in the morning and play up to 96 holes in one day.

"This was the inspiration for the Solstice Sling – it is a nod to the longest day of the year where golfers try and play as much golf as physically possible, as well as his unique adventurous spirit and the passion he has for the game he loves.

"There's a photo of me somewhere shaking a Boston shaker at about nine or 10 years old.

"I started bartending to pay rent, and somewhere along the way I got completely absorbed in classic cocktails and creating my own drinks.

"It feels really special knowing that a drink I made will be served at The Open to thousands of fans at Royal Birkdale this summer."

Now in its third year, The Serve of The Open challenges bartenders from across the UK and Europe to create original serves inspired by The Open, the host venue, and the exploratory spirit of Ben Lomond Gin.

Entrants were asked to craft a cocktail that captured the character, landscape and atmosphere of Royal Birkdale through taste and creativity.

Finalists were chosen after qualifying rounds that assessed originality, storytelling and technical skill, with entries judged by a panel of drinks industry professionals and special guests.

Andrew Jack, group marketing director at Loch Lomond Group, said: "The Serve of The Open continues to showcase the incredible creativity and craftsmanship within the bartending community, and this year’s entries captured the spirit of Royal Birkdale brilliantly.

"Branford’s ‘Solstice Sling’ stood out for its balance of flavour, storytelling, and seasonality – perfectly reflecting the atmosphere of summer golf and the adventurous character of Ben Lomond Scottish Gin.

"We look forward to bringing this winning serve to fans attending The 154th Open and to continue celebrating memorable experiences through great gin and world-class hospitality."

Glasgow bartender to have original cocktail showcased at The Open at Royal Birkdale (Image: Ben Lomond Premium Scottish Gin)

The cocktail will be served throughout the championship at locations including the Ben Lomond Gin Garden, Loch Lomond Whiskies Stand, Patrons Pavilion and Players Clubhouse.

It will also be available at select participating venues across Birkdale.

Ben Lomond Gin describes The Serve of The Open as a celebration of creativity and craftsmanship, with each winning cocktail designed to reflect a unique sense of place and occasion.

Fans attending The 154th Open in July will have the chance to try Brandon’s winning serve as part of the championship’s hospitality and bar offerings.