More than 50 top baristas are taking part in the final of the Diageo Reserve World Class Bartender of the Year competition.
It has attracted nearly 10,000 entrants from 56 countries, and is taking place in Miami between 26-29 September. The number of participating countries has more than tripled since the competition’s conception in 2009, with more than 250,000 bartenders taking part.
The World Class competition was launched to celebrate and elevate the craft of the bartender. “Those competing will set the next industry trends, shaping the future of cocktails and luxury drinking experiences around the world,” the organisers stated.
The event aims to demonstrate how bartenders are as skilful and pioneering as chefs. Competing bartenders will be judged on originality, precision, showmanship and the ability to connect with consumers.
The global final will be judged by a team of recognised tastemakers, chefs, mixologists and industry experts.
“Since its inception, World Class has been passionate about giving the best bartenders in the world the global spotlight they richly deserve,” said World Class Global Director Johanna Dalley.
“These are incredibly talented professionals whose skill is on a par with the world’s best chefs but who also deal directly with the public on a nightly basis.
“They have the flexibility to create great drinks to the exact specification of each and every one of their guests; they are part sommelier, part maître d’, part host, part alchemist, part entertainer and part confidant.”
World Class Global Ambassador Spike Marchant commented: “Each year I am astounded and inspired by the level of talent, skill and innovation the participants bring to the competition.”
Competitions leading up to the World Class global final have taken place in London, Athens, New Delhi, Rio de Janeiro and on a cruise ship.
