A new industry-led initiative designed to raise the profile of Staffordshire’s drinks scene has been launched by a Stoke-on-Trent cocktail bar.
The Staffordshire Drinks Collective was launched at an invite-only event at Desire Cocktail Bar, in Hanley, supported by global drinks company Pernod Ricard.
The initiative brings together bartenders, venue operators, producers and brand partners from across the county and wider Midlands.
Designed as a space for collaboration rather than competition, it will focus on celebrating regional identity, sharing knowledge and raising standards across the local hospitality sector.
Desire founder Dereece Gardner said: “There’s a huge amount of talent here, but historically the region hasn’t always been part of the wider conversation around drinks culture. We want to change that by bringing people together, sharing ideas and building something that feels representative of where we’re from.
“This is an opportunity to create a platform for the whole region. If we work together, we can build something that puts Staffordshire firmly on the map.”
Highlights from the launch included an exploration of ice as a ‘modern key ingredient’, a guided whisky tasting in partnership with Mangrove, and seasonal margaritas created using Altos tequila.
Guests were also introduced to Desire’s signature Staffordshire oatcake martini, a cocktail celebrating local food heritage by reimagining the classic bacon-and-cheese oatcake in liquid form.
Future Staffordshire Drinks Collective events are set to include tastings, networking, talks and bartender-led sessions, aimed at strengthening connections across the industry and showcasing the region’s potential.
People can register their interest for the next event here.
