Havana Club has unveiled the 22 finalist teams for the second edition of its Cocktail Maestros competition, a global celebration of bartending creativity and Cuban rum culture. After fierce national rounds, bartenders from around the world earned their place in the regional finals by crafting original Cuban-inspired cocktails that reflected Havana Club’s spirit of artistry and energy.
The team-based competition, launched in 2024, continues to grow. Last year’s winners, Panos Minoudis and Andreas Giaprakas from Greece, took home €10,000 and a rare set of Havana Club Icónica Máximo crystal decanters.
This year, over 550 teams from 25 countries competed in the first rounds. Judges from each country—typically industry leaders—evaluated the duos based on taste, presentation, team chemistry, and how well they highlighted the versatility of Cuban rum, particularly the Havana Club portfolio.
To win their national title, teams performed live demos at trade events or in-bar activations. Each cocktail had to reflect the Cuban essence through flavor, flair, and storytelling.
“Havana Club Cocktail Maestros is an international celebration of culture, creativity, and self-expression behind the bar,” said Alfredo Guerra, Global Brand Ambassador for Havana Club (Pernod Ricard), in an interview with The Spirits Business. “We’ve been very impressed by the passion, precision, and the way each duo brings their creative spirit to life.”
The competition now moves into its next phase: three regional finals in Europe, Asia, and the Americas this fall. These two-day events will include cocktail challenges, educational workshops, and mentorship sessions from top figures in the bar industry. Teams will also explore the history and cultural significance of Havana Club, deepening their connection to Cuban rum.
According to senior brand manager Maxime Chevalier, “This is a rare opportunity for bartenders to elevate their craft on a global stage through mentorship, cultural exchange, and hands-on experiences.”
Points earned during the regional stage will roll into each team’s total for the global finals in Havana, Cuba, scheduled for April 2026. The event will culminate in The Great Havana Hustle, where all finalists will take over a bar for a one-night-only service in Havana, showcasing their talent and adaptability.
Below are the teams advancing to the regional finals:
With a focus on mentorship, creativity, and community, Havana Club continues to position its Cocktail Maestros competition as a unique platform for bartenders worldwide. According to Chevalier, “This initiative builds not just skills but global connections—while celebrating what Cuban rum represents in today’s evolving spirits landscape.”
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The Spirits Business Article — Havana Club selects Cocktail Maestros finalists, written by Lauren Bowes
The image of the article is courtesy of © vladans via Canva.com
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