June 2012
Havana Club International is to serve up its biggest ever Cocktail Grand Prix in June as bartenders from around the globe converge on Havana to battle it out for the world’s most revered cocktail challenge.
Havana Club International is to serve up its biggest ever Cocktail Grand Prix in June as bartenders from around the globe converge on Havana to battle it out for the world’s most revered cocktail challenge.
More than 35 of the world’s leading bartenders are set to shake up the competition with their own creative takes on classic cocktails at the world finals, which take place from the 3rd – 7th June 2012.
“The 9th Havana Club International Cocktail Grand Prix will once again showcase the artistry of some of the best bartenders from around the globe,” said Yves Schladenhaufen, Marketing Director at Havana Club International S.A.
“In addition to those who have already qualified by being named their country's top bartender, this year we have also offered wild card entries via our Facebook page, giving two further bartenders a chance to compete with the best. The reaction has been phenomenal, further demonstrating the event’s cult following around the world,” Schladenhaufen concluded.
Some of the world’s top spirits influencers and bartenders have been drafted in to judge the competition, including Ian Burrell, Henry Besant, Jeff ‘Beachbum’ Berry, and Havana Club Master Distiller Asbel Morales.
The judges will be looking for contestants who have best showcased the authenticity and versatility of the three pillars of the Havana Club range – Añejo 3 Años, Añejo 7 Años and Havana Club Selección de Maestros. The quality and appearance of the cocktails together with the bartender’s knowledge and mixing techniques are all taken into account.
Honouring the style, creativity and professionalism of the Cuban cantinero is also vital. A host and a friend, these cocktail masters maintain a unique ability to connect with the customer through a deep understanding of human nature. Contenders must demonstrate this skill as they recreate, as authentically as possible, a true bar atmosphere and experience.
In addition to the pinnacle Grand Prix competition, the vibrant city of Havana will enjoy a festival feel, as Havana Club hosts a number of rum related events throughout the week, including seminars and workshops hosted by the judges and other top spirits specialists, including Jared Brown and Anistatia Miller.
For further information, please contact Paloma Salmerón:
paloma@rt-com.com
+44 020 7388 7421
