Diageo kicks off World Class in Singapore

Open to all bartenders, the ninth edition of Diageo’s World Class competition has launched in Singapore.

Out of all hopefuls, three bartenders will be chosen to compete in the regional finals to take home the title of Southeast Asia Bartender of the Year and earn a place at the global finals in Mexico City.

Set to run for a month, the first round has already launched, with participants tasked with creating two whisky-based cocktails along the themes of ‘Old Fashioned Twist’ and ‘Contemporary’, featuring either The Singleton of Glen Ord 12 year old or Bulleit Bourbon 10 year old in recognition of Scotland and the US.

The top 50 will then go through to the second round in March which itself will be narrowed down to 25.

The third round in May will shortlist the 10 finalists and the final round in June would determine the top three that will represent Singapore in the finals, taking place in Mexico City.

All bartenders are able to use the Diageo Reserve portfolio which includes among others, Ketel One, Ciroc, Tanqueray No. Ten, Don Julio, Johnnie Walker, Bulleit Bourbon, The Singleton and Talisker.

“At Diageo, we believe in realizing our mission to help the world drink better,” said Fabricio Marques, brand development manager for Asia Pacific. “And that is what the Diageo Reserve World Class competition is really all about – continuously seeking out the cream of the crop, and furthering their potential with the opportunity to work alongside with some of the industry’s best.

“We discover new talents, nurture their potential and together, pioneer the future of our industry.”