Global mixology contest underway in UK

Dozens of the world’s leading mixologists have raised a glass at Gleneagles in Scotland to celebrate the start of the Diageo Reserve World Class global mixology finals.

The best bartenders from around the globe arrive in Gleneagles to fight for the title of World’s Greatest Mixologist

47 of the world’s greatest mixologists came together at Gleneagles, Scotland at the weekend to mark the start of the sixth annual Diageo Reserve World Class Global Final 2014 — the bartending industry’s prestigious cocktail competition.

The bartenders from around the globe gathered at the iconic hotel as they prepared for five days of mixology challenges this week, which will determine who will be crowned the 2014 winner.

After a year-long journey of qualifiers, they now face a series of challenges staged around Great Britain, overseen by the cocktail luminaries such as Dale DeGroff, Salvatore Calabrese, Peter Dorelli, Daniel Estremadoyro, Steve Olson, Gaz Regan, Julie Reiner and Hidetsugu Ueno.

Matteo Fantacchiotti, global vice president commercial, Diageo Reserve, said: “With its mix of history and heritage with contemporary glamour and sophistication we believe that Gleneagles is the perfect place to begin the final of the 2014 Diageo Reserve World Class Bartender of the Year.

“As the finalists travel from Scotland, the home of iconic whiskies, to London, arguably the cocktail capital of the world, we’re set for five truly memorable days of competition and unforgettable drinks. We wish every one of the finalists the very best of luck.”

London’s Borough Market will play host to one of the series of challenges

Paying homage to Scotland’s whisky heritage, the bartenders will begin by having their knowledge of blends put to the test, before moving on to a more sensory challenge.

The finalists will then travel down to London on The Orient Express, and on their arrival at St Pancras Station they will be tasked with creating a classic Martini. After the challenge, the World Class bar will open for service and those lucky enough to get a seat will be able to enjoy the signature serves of previous winners David Rios, Tim Phillips, Manabu Ohtake, Erik Lorincz and Aristolelis Papadopoulos in an evening that will celebrate the best of cocktail culture.

On Wednesday morning the remaining bartenders will compete in the Five Star Challenge, being tested behind one of five different leading hotel bars in London, including the Savoy and the Langham.

Next they combine writing and mixology with literary inspired cocktails for the Written Word Challenge.

And as the week nears its finale, the competition steps up a gear as the mixologists are given a challenge based in the foodie haven of Borough Market, before a speed-serve contest in Cocktails Against The Clock.

The overall winner of the World Class Global Final 2014 will be announced at an awards ceremony in London on 1st August 2014.