Edinburgh’s Cocktail King: Iain McPherson Takes the Global Stage with the Altos Bartenders’ Bartender Award 2024


Edinburgh bartender and innovator Iain McPherson has been honored with one of the most prestigious accolades in the bar industry, cementing his reputation as a global leader in hospitality and cocktail innovation.

Iain, founder of the iconic Edinburgh-based bar Panda & Sons, received the Altos Bartenders’ Bartender Award at the 2024 edition of The World’s 50 Best Bars.

As you may know, this award, sponsored by Altos Tequila and Perrier, is unique in its peer-voted format, where bartenders from the world’s top 50 establishments recognize one of their own who embodies excellence in bartending and hospitality.

Iain’s combination of creativity, transparency, and relentless commitment to Scotland’s bar scene earned him this high honor.

A True Champion of Scottish Hospitality

Iain’s journey began at The Voodoo Rooms in Edinburgh in 2007, where he quickly rose through the ranks, building a reputation that extended far beyond Scotland.

In 2013, he opened Panda & Sons, a bar cleverly hidden behind a vintage barbershop façade, which combines the warmth of a neighborhood pub with the secrecy of a Prohibition-era speakeasy.

Iain has since expanded his footprint with additional venues such as Hoot the Redeemer and Nauticus, both known for their unique concepts and dedication to Scottish ingredients and traditions.

Nauticus, in particular, is a testament to McPherson’s passion for promoting local produce, a trait that has made him a de facto ambassador for Scottish hospitality.

He has also played a pivotal role in organizing the inaugural Edinburgh Bar Show, further galvanizing the local bar community and spotlighting Edinburgh’s growing status as a global hospitality hub.

Innovating with Ice: a Cocktail Revolution

Known as a trailblazer, Iain’s most significant contribution to the bartending world is his groundbreaking work with subzero temperatures and their effect on flavor.

His latest menu at Panda & Sons, titled Transcend, has been met with international acclaim, particularly for its avant-garde freezing techniques that add new dimensions to traditional cocktails.

He doesn’t just keep his methods to himself; he is known for sharing his knowledge at global seminars and masterclasses, helping to push the boundaries of cocktail creation across the world.

In other words, he has set new standards for creativity and innovation in the industry through his dedication to sharing knowledge. That is why his contributions have a lasting impact not only on the bars he runs but also on the broader cocktail community.

Upon receiving the award, he emphasized that it is an immense honor to be recognized by his peers, but he believes this award isn’t just for him. “It reflects the creativity, passion, and dedication of my entire team at Panda & Sons. Together, we strive to push the boundaries of what’s possible and create magical experiences for our guests.”

This recognition marks yet another milestone for Iain, as he is the founder of Panda & Sons, which debuted on The World’s 50 Best Bars list in 2018 and continues to rise through the ranks. Meanwhile, his other venture, Nauticus, was named in the 50 Best Discovery list in 2021, further cementing Edinburgh’s place on the world cocktail map.

Carlos Andres Ramirez, Global Advocacy & PR Manager for Altos Tequila, praised Iain’s influence, saying, “We are thrilled to see Iain recognized for his immense contributions to the global bartending scene. His passion for his craft and for the Scottish bar community is truly inspiring.”

With this award, Iain not only celebrates a personal victory but also brings international attention to Scotland’s vibrant hospitality scene. His blend of scientific creativity, deep respect for local produce, and unwavering commitment to sharing knowledge continues to inspire the global bartending community.He is also joining to the list of past winners, including Renato ‘Tato’ Giovannoni of Floreria Atlantico, Buenos Aires (2020); Lynnette Marrero of Llama Inn, New York (2021); and Jean Trinh of Alquimico, Cartagena (2022), among others.