World Class Top 100 field narrows to 8 as 2021 GB finalists announced
The British leg of Diageo’s global bartender competition, World Class, is nearing its climax as the lineup of eight finalists is announced. Five new names join the three bartenders – Stevie Kane, Kuba Korzynski, and James Rawcliffe – who qualified in September 2020 following a series of London Cocktail Week Challenges.
Introducing the ‘final five’ and their serves, who were selected by the World Class judging panel following a virtually-held Top 100 semi final titled ‘The Singleton Challenge: Malt Memories’:
Alexa Farrow, London
In Memoriam: The Singleton of Dufftown 12yo Chamomile, Jasmine & Eucalyptus Cordial, Belsazar Riesling Vermouth
Stefanie Anderson, Edinburgh
Between Two Sunbeams: The Singleton of Dufftown 12yo, Tamarind, Lychee & Eucalyptus, Soda
Mark McClintock, London
Ecossaise: The Singleton of Dufftown 12yo, Floral Pistachio Orgeat, Lemon
Murray Drysdale, Edinburgh
Trinity Highball: The Singleton of Dufftown 12yo, Rhubarb and Custard Cream Soda Cordial, Soda
Matt Arnold, Birmingham
Anamnesis: The Singleton of Dufftown 12yo, Charred Barley infused Elderflower Liqueur, Water Blend
The eight finalists now move on to the GB final, which will be held virtually in April. The eventual winner will be crowned World Class GB Bartender of the Year 2021, and will go on to represent Great Britain in the global World Class final later this year.
The World Class GB competition final will test the creativity and skill of the 8 finalists, who will compete in two virtual challenges showcasing their cocktails, skills, personality and craft using Tanqueray No. TEN, Johnnie Walker and Talisker. The final will be broadcast on April 23rd 2021. In addition to the Bartender of the Year title and opportunity to represent GB globally, the winner will secure a 12-month contract with bartender talent agency, Global Bartending, as well as a place on a WSET Level 3 Award in Spirits course.
Jo Last, World Class & Malt Whisky Ambassador, said of the competition so far: “Taking World Class virtual this year has been a new experience, but we’re overjoyed with its success so far. It was important for us to stay connected with our community of bartenders and to innovate, by adding new challenges to match the increased standards of competitors. We’re really impressed by all the entries this year and how well the competitors have adapted to the new virtual platform.”
Congratulations to the eight finalists, and to Diageo for running an excellent competition during the most trying of years. We look forward to the final on April 23rd and will bring you news of how to view it nearer the time.