Bartenders of Scotland take note: SLTN’s cocktail competition for 2026 is now open for entries!
After two years of our 1960s-themed Spirit of the Sixties competition, SLTN decided it was time to give our competition a fresh face and bring things squarely into the present day. We give you: SLTN Serves!
At a time when things in the trade are challenging we decided to focus on all that’s good about working in the industry. So, along with competition sponsor FUNKIN, we’re asking entrants to create a cocktail inspired by their favourite hospitality memory.
Is there a particular interaction with a colleague or customer that stands out in your mind? Or maybe there was a mentor that helped you develop your skills? Perhaps the recollection of one wild shift always brings a smile?
Whatever your favourite hospitality memory, we want to see it in cocktail form!
Entries should be posted on the entrant’s Instagram page, including video, images or both, as well as a list of ingredients and the hashtag #SLTNServes
They must also tag SLTN and Funkin on Instagram (@scottishlicensedtradenews and @funkincocktails) to ensure we are notified of every entry.
Entries run from 2nd March to 21st March 2026, with the SLTN Serves final taking place in Glasgow on 11th May.
At the final, competitors will be asked to prepare two drinks: their original entry and a second cocktail suitable for preparation in large volumes.
The winner will have their second cocktail served at the 2026 SLTN Awards and receive two tickets to the event, as well as a fast-track into the top six for either the Bartender of the Year or Mixologist of the Year categories.
SLTN print editor, Dave Hunter, said: “Hospitality can be a tough gig, but it’s also an industry full of amazing people creating amazing memories. With SLTN Serves we’re asking entrants to share those memories as we celebrate some of the best parts of the job.
“Our cocktail competition has become a highlight over the past couple of years. The creativity we’ve seen has been incredible, and we can’t wait to see what Scotland’s bartenders come up with in 2026!”
Find out more at sltn.co.uk/sltn-serves/
