Jean Vital
Mixologist, Content Creator & Beverage Consultant — The Ivy Collection & Cocktail Circus
Jean Vital is a respected mixologist, beverage consultant and hospitality professional currently working with The Ivy Collection.
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He has extensive experience in cocktail development, brand collaborations and drinks innovation. Known for his creative cocktail concepts and distinctive visual storytelling, Jean has worked with leading hospitality and beverage brands while building a strong international following through his Cocktail Circus platform.
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His expertise in flavour development, presentation and modern mixology makes him a valuable member of the judging panel for the Golden Pearl Awards 2026 – Mixology Contest.
Michele Lombardi
Head of Bars — Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge
 Michele Lombardi oversees the beverage programme across one of London's most prestigious luxury hospitality destinations.
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With extensive experience in premium cocktail service, bar operations and beverage innovation, Michele has established himself as a respected figure within the hospitality industry.
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His expertise spans cocktail development, guest experience, team leadership and luxury beverage concepts. As an Official Judge of the Golden Pearl Awards 2026 – Mixology Contest, Michele brings valuable insight into creativity, execution, presentation and commercial excellence within modern hospitality.
Meet the Judges
Our adjudication panel consists of world-renowned mixologists, industry journalists, and beverage innovators, ensuring the highest standards of integrity and expertise.
The Selection Committee
Tihomir Gergov
Managing Director — MONIN UK
Tony Gergov is the Managing Director of MONIN UK, a global leader in premium flavour solutions and beverage innovation.
With many years of experience working alongside hospitality professionals, beverage creators and leading brands, Tony has helped drive innovation across the café, cocktail and foodservice sectors. His expertise spans product development, beverage trends, menu innovation and commercial growth within the hospitality industry.
As an Official Judge of the Golden Pearl Awards 2026 – Mixology Contest, Tony offers a unique perspective on creativity, market potential and the future of beverage innovation.
Vicky Liu
Founder & Managing Director — Boba Formosa UK
Vicky is a beverage industry specialist and the Founder of Boba Formosa UK, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of Taiwanese beverage ingredients.
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With extensive experience in beverage innovation, product development and hospitality partnerships, she has worked with cafés, restaurants, bars and hotel groups across the UK to develop commercially successful drink concepts and bring emerging beverage trends to market.
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As Founder and Head Judge of the Golden Pearl Awards 2026 – Mixology Contest, Vicky brings expertise in flavour innovation, ingredient application, commercial viability and market trends, helping identify drinks that combine creativity with real-world consumer appeal.