It’s a first for the prestigious competition
For the first time in the competition’s history, the semi-final of the Irish stage of the World Class Cocktail competition will take place in Cork City, in the impressive Cork City Gaol.
The event will take place on Monday 8 th April, when 8 mixologists from around Ireland will go head-to-head in their attempt to become the winner of World Class Ireland 2024.
Diageo’s World Class is an educational platform where bartenders can learn and compete in the largest most prestigious bartending competition in the world. The winner of World Class Ireland will progress to the International World Class final, which is set to take place in Shanghai later in the year.
The semi-final promises to be an incredible event, and Cork City Gaol, a venue known for its historical significance, adds a unique ambiance to the competition. Attendees will be treated to an afternoon of excitement and some unique cocktails, with contestants pitting their wits against each other in a series of challenges designed to test their creativity, knowledge, and professional skills.
As well as the contestants, the event will also feature a number of Cork based artists who will partner with them to create collaborative pieces specifically for the occasion, and tasty treats from some of the finest local food producers, brought together by Cork caterers Excellent Choice, will bring a truly Cork flavour to the celebrations.
Whilst World Class is a truly international competition, and World Class Ireland encompasses the island of Ireland as a whole, this event will showcase and support the essence of local community, which is an important part of the ethos of its organisers.
Three of this year’s semi-finalists are from bars in Cork, with 2 from Dublin and others from Limerick, Galway, and Belfast, illustrating the national reach of the competition. The semi final of World Class Ireland will take place on Monday 8 th April from 2pm – 6pm at the Cork City Gaol, and there will be a limited number of tickets released to the public so keep your eyes peeled!