World’s best bartender crowned

Jennifer Le Nechet has been named the world’s best bartender at this year’s World Class Bartender of the Year competition.

Le Nechet emerged victorious from a four-day final battle in Miami having impressed the judges with a range of “spectacular” and “vibrant” Steampunk-inspired drinks.

Normally found in Paris’ Café Moderne, Le Nechet, also the first woman to win the title, said: “I’m completely blown away – it’s such an honour to take home the title of World’s Best Bartender – especially when competing against such talent from around the world. This week has inspired me to continue pushing the boundaries of flavours and to explore how all the senses can be engaged through cocktails. I can’t wait for the experience ahead!”

The Diageo run event is now in its eighth year and this was the biggest edition to date with close to 10,000 bartenders entering.

Fifty-six made it to Miami where they were put through their paces with a number of challenges which tested their techniques, personality. Spirits knowledge and performance under pressure.

Using brands from Diageo’s reserve portfolio they created both classic cocktails and drinks of their own creation.

Johanna Dalley, World Class director of Diageo Reserve said: “World Class is continuing on a stellar trajectory – since we launched in 2009 the number of countries participating has tripled from 18 to 56, and the programme has reached and inspired more than 250,000 bartenders around the globe.

“We are proud to bring you this year’s crop of the world’s most skilled bartenders, and to learn about the newest and greatest drinks experiences on offer. Jennifer is the deserved winner, and we are delighted to have a female winner for the first time, but the five runners up were all worthy contenders.”

Le Nechet will now spend the next year as ambassador for Diageo Reserve Brand and will travel the world to judge at competitions and mix drinks in far-flung locations.

Next year’s final will take place in Mexico City.