Hard Rock Hotel's First Arak Fest Celebrates Bali's Traditional Liquor's Evolution

On Monday, April 22nd, 2024, Hard Rock Hotel Bali hosted its first Arak Fest, supported by Elizabeth International and local Arak producers, the event took place at the Hall of Fame. The event aimed to dig deeper into the historical richness and evolution of Bali's traditional liquor, Arak, which has seen a remarkable metamorphosis in recent years as a result of quality and branding improvements by Bali's Arak makers following its legalization by the governor on January 29, 2020.

The event focused on educating young aspiring hoteliers on the value of Certified Arak, emphasizing how registered Arak can compete with other imported liquors. Opening the event were Mrs Putu Sri Budani, A.M. Par., HTS, Director of Elizabeth International, and Shane Coates, General Manager of Hard Rock Hotel Bali. The 200 university students in attendance were invited to receive insights from Arak specialists. Along with a number of brand demonstrations featuring Bali Arak producers and mixologist performances by Borti Jessika are also featured.

Ida Bagus Rai Budarsa, the owner of Dewi Sri Arak who also owns Hatten Winery, Dedi Pageriawan from Selaka Arak, and Ketut Darmayasa, the National IFBEC Chairman shared their insights into the production, branding, and selling of Arak, shedding light on the challenges and successes of this traditional Balinese beverage. The event was moderated by Hendru Maulana Yusuf, S.S., HTS, Director of the Elizabeth International Business Incubator. Audiences were also introduced to other certified Arak brands, including Budi Pekerti, Palwana Salaka Ning, Sajeng Petala, and Iwak Arumeri. 

Arak is crafted from the fermented sap of coconut flowers or rice, resulting in a wide range of alcohol levels, spanning from 15% to 50%. It plays an important cultural function in Balinese society, supporting both religious and social needs. Many Arak products are now licensed and approved, with high-quality packaging and a variety of flavours.  With a vision that Arak can compete on the global stage, the Arak Fest event aimed to provide insight to the younger generation about Arak as an intangible cultural heritage while also encouraging people to choose licensed Arak companies that promote quality and authenticity.

On the same day, Hard Rock Hotel Bali launched their own Arak Series, crafted from the island's finest Arak sources. In line with the hotel's sustainability program, the Arak Series at Hard Rock Hotel Bali showcases the rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship of Bali's traditional liquor. By sourcing Arak from licensed and certified local producers, the hotel not only guarantees the quality and authenticity of its cocktails but also supports the livelihoods of small-scale Arak farmers and producers in Bali. This initiative not only enhances the guest experience by offering unique and locally-inspired cocktails but also strengthens the bond between the hotel and the local community.

Hard Rock Hotel Bali
Jl. Pantai Kuta, Banjar Pande Mas, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361
Phone: 0361 761 869
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