black mirror

Born and raised in Palermo, Italy, Daniele Biondo discovered his passion for the bar industry in 2016. After studying at the Mixology Academy in Milan, he embarked on a journey that took him across different locations, refining his skills and gaining international experience.

Three years ago, he moved to Switzerland, where he first worked at Baur au Lac before joining IGNIV Zurich as Chef de Bar.

For Daniele, mixology is an art form – each cocktail tells a story, evoking emotions, memories, and unique sensations. He has a deep appreciation for agave-based spirits, particularly Tommy’s Margarita, but enjoys experimenting with unusual ingredients and innovative techniques to create fresh interpretations of classic drinks.

His approach to bartending is driven by several key elements:

• The art of pairing – crafting the perfect (non-alcoholic) drink to complement a dish or a moment at the 2 Michelin-starred restaurant IGNIV by Andreas Caminada.

• Hospitality – creating an inviting atmosphere that makes guests feel at home.

• Experimentation – exploring new flavors through spices, infusions, fermentation, and aging.

• Reinventing classics – giving historic cocktails a modern twist.

When developing new recipes, Daniele draws inspiration from seasonal ingredients, personal experiences, and guest preferences. He meticulously balances flavors, refines techniques, and ensures that every cocktail is both a delight to taste and a visual masterpiece.

Follow Daniele’s journey with World Class on his Instagram @danibiondo21.

“Black Mirror” is more than just a cocktail. It represents a moment of transformation, a quiet ritual that happens before the night begins, when we stand in front of the mirror and decide who we want to be.

Every day we carry invisible marks of the life we have lived. Experiences, emotions, and expectations shape us, but they do not always define us. The night offers something special. It gives us the freedom to reinvent ourselves, even if only for a few hours.

My inspiration came from this idea of identity and the way we choose a character. A simple gesture can shift perception. Like putting on a mask before stepping into the world, a drink can transform something familiar into something entirely new.

Coffee is something we all recognize and something deeply rooted in everyday life. But before it becomes the roasted flavor we know, coffee exists in a greener, more delicate form. By redistilling green coffee, I wanted to capture its pure essence. Transparent, floral, and almost unfamiliar.

The persimmon and black cardamom kombucha represents transformation. Fermentation is a slow evolution where time reshapes flavor and complexity. Persimmon brings softness and natural sweetness, while black cardamom adds a dark, smoky depth.

Finally, the umami dust made from coffee flowers and citric acid acts as the finishing touch. It is the subtle detail that changes everything, like the final gesture before stepping out for the night.

With “Black Mirror” I invite you to pause for a moment and reflect on who you want to be tonight. Floral, vibrant, and unexpected, this cocktail celebrates transformation and the beauty of becoming someone new, even if only for a moment.

Salute, cheers, and viva!

Ingredients:

Black Ruby
Redistilled green coffee
Persimmon and black cardamom kombucha
Umami dust (coffee flowers and citric acid)

The DIAGEO World Class Cocktail Competition is one of the most prestigious global bartending contests, designed to celebrate and elevate the craft of mixology. Organized by DIAGEO, a leading spirits company, the competition challenges bartenders from around the world to showcase their creativity, technique, and knowledge of premium spirits.

Participants compete in regional and national rounds, with winners advancing to the World Class Global Finals. The event not only highlights innovation in cocktail-making but also provides a platform for bartenders to gain international recognition and career growth.

Johnnie Walker is one of the world's most iconic Scotch whisky brands, known for its rich history and exceptional blends. Established in Scotland in the early 19th century, the brand has become synonymous with quality and craftsmanship.

Johnnie Walker Black Label is a premium blended Scotch whisky, aged for at least 12 years, offering a smooth, complex flavor profile. It is renowned for its deep, smoky character, balanced with notes of rich fruits, vanilla, and a hint of spice. A favorite among whisky enthusiasts, Black Label embodies the signature depth and sophistication of Johnnie Walker’s blending expertise.