Tomorrow marks the one-week deadline for entries to World Class GB 2025.
Diageo’s annual competition – entry to which closes on Friday February 28th – aims to crown the best bartender in Great Britain, who will then go on to compete in the global final.
To enter, bartenders must create an original cocktail with either The Singleton single malt scotch whisky or Don Julio tequila. Submissions are now open via The Diageo Bar Academy Platform.
The top 100 finalists will be announced on March 10th and will be invited to join the World Class Judging Roadshow, where they will come together in one of five key cities across the country.
The top 10 bartenders will then attend a three-day immersive event in London or Scotland, culminating in the crowning of one winner who will represent Great Britain on the global stage in Toronto in September.
Ten prizes are on offer, including an all-expenses-paid trip to the global final in Toronto, a visit to New York City, a Soho House membership, and a two-year talent representation with Global Bartending.
This year’s program also includes a number of new events and initiatives taking place throughout the year and includes the World Class Cocktail Festival (running from April 14th -27th), showcasing the cocktail creations in the bars of this year's World Class GB Top 100.
Throughout spring, the new World Class Presents series will feature three events at venues in key cities across the country. Exclusively for members of the hospitality industry, this is an opportunity for all bartenders to be part of World Class, even if they’re not competing.
The series includes Curated Moments with The Singleton (which took place this February), Depth in Blue with Johnnie Walker (April) and Palomarama with Don Julio (May).
Other developments for 2025 include a partnership with Schweppes.
Jo Last, Diageo GB’s Advocacy Manager, said: “We are really excited about this year's program. Particularly the introduction of more moments for the World Class family to connect with each other; be that during the Top 100 Roadshows or at World Class Presents, our experience led brand sessions dotted throughout the year.
“We can’t wait to spend time with new and returning competitors – I would love for us to bring the global trophy home this year!”