Hotsy Totsy’s very own Nikolett Czene has once again stepped into the international spotlight, this time with her entry in the Planteray Rum Competition. Unlike traditional formats, the Hungarian round of the competition doesn’t include a local final. Instead, competitors submit a video presentation of their cocktail — and from this pool, one bartender is selected to represent Hungary in the finals held this June in Poland. The grand prize? A dream trip to Barbados.
Nikolett’s drink, The Red Dress, goes beyond taste — it tells a story. Inspired by the strength and support within the female bartending community, it’s a tribute to solidarity, mentorship, and collaboration. The drink itself was developed in creative collaboration with the team from Elysian Budapest, symbolizing exactly what it promotes: women helping women in a male-dominated industry.
The Red Dress
- Base: Planteray Cut and Dry
- Modifiers: Fusetti Cacao, Cocchi Vermouth Amaro Dopo Teatro
- Technique: Butter fat-washing
- Garnish: Coconut cream–soaked rice paper
To bring this spirit to life, Hotsy Totsy will host a Tropical Week from May 12–18, featuring a special Planteray cocktail menu. Naturally, The Red Dress will be available to try during this week.
We’re proud to be part of the Planteray Tropical Week Map, putting Budapest on the rum-lovers’ global radar.
🔗 https://planterayrum.com/tropical-week/
Stay tuned — we’ll find out soon whether Niki will be heading to Poland for the finals, but one thing’s for sure: we already feel like winners having her behind our bar.
