Drinks giant Diageo has announced the top 10 finalists who will compete for the Diageo World Class GB mixology title at the competition’s grand final this June.
Selected from thousands of entries, this year’s finalists hail from bars in Leeds, Hull, Edinburgh, Newcastle, Birmingham, and London.
Diageo declared that, together, they ‘represent the next generation of British bartending talent’.
“Their winning cocktails showcase modern techniques, bold flavour combinations, and inventive presentations, offering a glimpse into the future of cocktail menus, as World Class GB continues its role in championing the nation’s best bartenders,” said a spokesperson.
Scotland’s sole representative on the list is Sean Cavanagh, of Edinburgh’s Hey Palu, who is no stranger to the competition, having reached the finals twice before. He responded to the news on his social media, saying simply: “A very busy six weeks ahead but proud to once again be representing Scottish hospitality at the highest stage!”
The other GB World Class finalists are:
Lottie Barnard, Below Stairs – Leeds;
Previous GB winner Mathew Arnold, Passing Fancies – Birmingham;
Luke Riley, Restaurant Pine –Newcastle;
Matthew Smith, Brain Jar – Hull;
Chelsie Bailey, Stonegate – London;
Yvonne P, Kwant – London;
Laurie Howells, Archive & Myth – London;
Oscar Perry, Murder, Inc. – London;
Emanuele Mensah, The Connaught Bar – London.
