Diageo kicks off next World Class burst in UK

Diageo Reserve has launched the second wave of its World Class cocktail competition in the UK, which will focus on the theme ‘Fruits and Plants’.

Diageo Reserve World Class has kicked off its second burst of competition in the UK

The round invites entrants to create a cocktail based on the story of a person who has “made a difference to the environment in some way”, such as a musician, athlete, artist, author or loved one.

Bartenders should also fulfill the brief of creating a cocktail that delivers “fresh, bright and seasonal flavours”, with a “strong seasonal sense of spring or summer” using white spirits from Diageo Reserve’s portfolio.

To demonstrate their skills in producing an easily replicable serve, competitors should not use barware or professional equipment, instead using “basic tools” that can be found in the home.

Dan Dove, head of World Class UK, said the round reflects growing consumer interest in the contents of what they eat and drink.

Previously, five bartenders were selected as finalists following the first found of the competition, called ‘Mindful Drinking’. Those bartenders were: Liam Broom of Callooh Callay, Tim Laferla of City Social, Sean Fennelly of Milk & Honey, Kyle Wilkinson of Blind Pig, and Scott Gavin of Rosewood Hotel.

“‘Fruits and Plants’ is structured in a way that we’re able to identify different talents to those we were strictly looking for in ‘Mindful Drinking’”, said Dove.

“My advice for entrants is to not be too technical. We’re looking for a human touch at this stage, so bartenders should create a drink and build a story for people who are not bartenders or from the industry.

“In stripping it back to the basics, competitors have the chance to showcase raw creativity and a true understanding of flavour. It also means we can celebrate the winner’s drink by replicating it in trade and importantly, in the home too.”

Each of the two waves in World Class UK consists of three to four rounds, and bartenders are permitted to enter both waves if they wish.

Entries for the second wave of World Class 2016 will open from 18-30 March. Bartenders wishing to enter should visit www.theworldclassclub.com. Compared to 54 markets in 2015, Diageo Reserve World Class 2016 will take place across 70 markets.

Tim Laferla, who also made it through to the final five last year, said of the competition: “The big thing about World Class for me is how comprehensive the competition is. It tests you in every single way as a bartender and it’s very difficult to prepare for. I’ve basically been preparing for the past six years of my career.

“It doesn’t just test you on one drink, it tests your palate and how well you can create a well balanced drink on your feet.”

The global final of the competition will be held in Miami.