Diageo Reserve is delighted to kick off the 15th edition of World Class, the largest and most prestigious bartending competition globally, igniting the passion for superior drinking experiences around the world.
The 15th edition of World Class in India heralds the quest for the next Bartender of the Year, set to proudly represent India at the global finale in China later this year. This season witnesses an unprecedented surge in participation, with over 370 bartenders from across India vying for the title, marking it as the highest number of entries to date.
Annually, the World Class India competition draws applications from all corners of the country. Before the World Class India Finale in June, participants engage themselves in a series of regional and national challenges filled with current culinary and cultural trends.
Emphasizing aspects like reinventing classic cocktails, sustainability, and ingredient storytelling, contestants have the platform to showcase craftsmanship and innovation while tackling challenges aimed at crafting exceptional consumer experiences.
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The competition also offers them the opportunity to unleash their creativity with Diageo Reserve’s premium and flavorful spirits including Tanqueray, Singleton, Talisker, Johnnie Walker, Don Julio, and Ketel One.
Commenting on the commencement of World Class 2024, Prathmesh Mishra, Chief Commercial Officer at DIAGEO India, expressed, “World Class is more than a mere competition; it’s an ecosystem that uplifts the art of bartending, providing enthusiasts with the opportunity to savor the finest spirits. By furnishing a stage for bartenders to exhibit their ingenuity and expertise, World Class not only nurtures individual talent but also enhances the collective skill set of the community. This collaborative atmosphere ignites innovation and excellence, thereby enriching the entire industry and delivering unforgettable experiences to consumers.”
World Class serves as a guiding light for cocktail culture, igniting the fervor of artisans dedicated to advancing the art of mixology. With a rich legacy spanning over twelve years across 60 countries, World Class has educated and motivated over 400,000 bartenders, collaborating with the premium spirits of the Diageo Reserve collection.
What’s in store this season:
World Class Cocktail Week – (Starting April 7th): During World Class Cocktail Week, consumers will explore exceptional drink experiences at the Top 100 bars nationwide. This engaging event is designed to spotlight the craft of cocktail creation and spotlight the latest trends in the industry. With #AGlassofWorldClass as the focal point of each encounter, consumers will learn how to enhance their own drinking experiences.
World Class Cocktail Festival and India Finale: Set for June, the World Class Cocktail Festival unites the Top 15 Bartenders from across India alongside guests from globally acclaimed bars. Attendees will marvel at the expertise and creativity of bartending as competitors compete for the esteemed title of World Class India Bartender of the Year. The event offers workshops, brand-led zones, and immersive experiences to suit a range of interests.
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