In the world of bartending, few names carry the weight and respect that David Rios commands. Born in Bilbao, nestled in Spain’s Basque Country, Rios is the youngest of nine children in a large, close-knit family. His upbringing in such a loving and supportive environment empowered him with strong values – respect for others, humility, and an unbreakable thirst for continuous self-improvement. These qualities have guided his journey from a weekend bartender to becoming one of the most recognized names in the global bar industry, ultimately being crowned Diageo’s World Class Bartender of the Year in 2013.
From the Football Pitch to the Bar
Rios’ entrance into bartending was almost accidental. As a semi-professional footballer until the age of 18, his life could have taken a very different direction. What began as a weekend job in a bar quickly transformed into a passion. By the age of 19, Rios had opened his first cafeteria with his brother – a venture that solidified his path in hospitality. Fast-forward 27 years, and David remains as passionate as ever about the art of bartending.
His philosophy is simple yet profound: dream, smile, and enjoy. For him, bartending is not merely a profession but a lifestyle, one in which respect, gratitude, and kindness shape every interaction, whether crafting a cocktail or teaching a masterclass. These values have defined both his personal and professional life, and they’re the very ethos he imparts to those who follow in his footsteps.
A World-Class Achievement
David Rios’ breakthrough moment came in 2013 when he clinched the Diageo World Class Bartender of the Year title. Competing against top bartenders from over 40 countries, Davids triumph was more than a personal victory – it was a defining moment in his career. His innovative cocktails, rooted in tradition but imbued with creativity, wowed the judges and showcased his ability to create drinks that told a story, evoking emotion and connecting with people.
He has always emphasized that competitions aren’t just about winning trophies; they’re about learning, meeting new people, and gaining fresh perspectives. His World Class victory exemplified this philosophy, propelling him to international fame, yet he remained grounded, insisting that each day is an opportunity to improve, no matter the accolades.
The Connection to Padre Azul and the Birth of Padrecito
Davids’ journey eventually led him to a randomly encounter with the tequila brand Padre Azul, which would evolve into a meaningful collaboration. During a bartending event at the Berlin Bar Convent, David was intrigued by a table displaying Padre Azul tequila bottles. A casual tasting led to a meeting with Adriana, the wife of Padre Azul founder HP Eder, which marked the beginning of a fruitful partnership.
What began as mutual admiration for tequila soon blossomed into a collaborative effort to create a new product specifically for bartenders. David and Padre Azul invented Padrecito, a mixing tequila that embodied the same values of craftsmanship and authenticity. Although the pandemic delayed its release, he brought the project to life, and seeing his name on the Padrecito bottle was one of those magic moments he cherishes. Padrecito represents more than just a product – it’s the culmination of Davids’ dedication to elevating the bartender community.
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An Advocate for the Next Generation
For him, bartending goes beyond the technical abilities of making a drink; it’s about creating memorable experiences and sharing positivity. As a mentor, he is deeply invested in nurturing the next generation of bartenders, offering guidance and support while encouraging them to dream big and smile often. His ability to connect with both seasoned professionals and newcomers alike has earned him a place as a role model within the industry. He believes that just as he once looked up to sports stars like Kelly Slater and Michael Jordan for their perseverance and humility, he now strives to embody those qualities for young bartenders.
The Magic of Bartending and life
Despite his success, Davids favourite moments remain simple and profound. Whether it’s catching early-morning waves with friends in the Basque Sea or seeing the joy on someone’s face after tasting one of his cocktails, he finds magic in the everyday. To him, friendship means respect, trust, and the unspoken bond that comes from shared moments – whether it’s on a surfboard at sunrise or behind the bar.
A Lasting Legacy in Mixology
David Rios’ impact on the bartending world extends far beyond his personal achievements. He has helped redefine what it means to be a bartender, elevating the craft to an art form that combines skill, creativity, and human connection. Whether through his signature cocktails or his collaborative projects like Padrecito, he continues to inspire and push the boundaries of what’s possible in mixology.
His story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and a commitment to learning – values that have made him not only a global champion but a beloved figure in the world of cocktails. Through his work, David Rios reminds us that bartending is not just about making drinks but about making memories and spreading happiness, one cocktail at a time.
Upcoming Event
David will be At the GAST FAir in Salzburg in the beginning of November 2024, doing what he is best at with Padrecito and Padre Azul. Watch out for announcements via our social media and don’t miss the chance to get to know him in person!
Stay tuned for more people of Padre – coming soon!
AS ALWAYS – DRINK RESPONSIBLY and lots of #magic moments!
Saludos,
The Padre Family
