Giffard offers bartenders trip to South America
The West Cup cocktail competition, created by liqueur and syrup producer Giffard, has returned for 2026 with an all-expenses-paid trip to South America up for grabs.
This year’s event asks mixologists to showcase their creativity under the theme ‘Sip the Moment’.
To enter, bartenders must create two connected drinks: one inspired by a morning moment and the other by an evening occasion.
Each serve must ‘capture a distinct mood, context and time of day’. The two drinks must also be a ‘coherent pair’.
Last year’s winner, Steve Gleeson, said: “Giffard West Cup was an unforgettable experience. From meeting amazing people across the UK to gaining friends for life across the globe, this competition remains, to this date, one of the greatest experiences I’ve had in my hospitality career.
“I implore any bartender to enter West Cup. Use this competition to truly explore your creativity, to meet some wonderful people, and enjoy every second of it.”
Each drink must feature a minimum of 30ml of a product from the Giffard range.
A series of heats will take place across the UK from late May to late June. Successful competitors from each heat will advance to the national final.
One bartender will be chosen to represent the UK at the international final in Angers, France.
The final, to be held at Giffard’s historic home, will bring together international bartenders, with the ultimate winner receiving an all-inclusive journey to a coffee terroir in South America.
Nick Gillett, managing director of Giffard’s UK distributor, Mangrove, said: “We understand better than anyone the importance of creating spaces where hospitality and spirits professionals can come together. The West Cup has become a momentous occasion in the annual calendar that lets us do exactly that.
“Not only is it great for Giffard, it’s great for venues and for the industry. I firmly believe the creativity and entrepreneurship of hospitality is second to none – and this competition allows them to showcase it.”
Giffard was founded in 1885 and remains family-owned.
Marshall Seyler, European brand ambassador for Giffard, added: “Giffard has long been championed by bar teams and the on-trade – so there is no better way to celebrate our range than with a cocktail competition.
“Every year we’re amazed at the recipes and concepts presented, and every year we get to see the creativity, drive and enthusiasm that the hospitality industry embodies. The theme for this year, with two cocktails to present, will bring us twice the fun.”
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