Beginning April 4th, 2012, Diageo will honor bartenders and mixologists by debuting the renowned Diageo World Class program in the United States in conjunction with the United States Bartender’s Guild (USBG). This unique, international cocktail training program will champion the art of the crafted cocktail and name one talented bartender the first-ever World Class U.S. Ambassador, who will represent the United States at the Diageo World Class Global Final in Brazil this coming July.
“Diageo has always been committed to the professional and educational development of bartenders and mixologists around the globe,” said Mark Schulte, Diageo’s Senior Vice President of Customer Marketing. “We are extremely exicted to strengthen this long lasting relationship with the trade by working with the USBG to extend the Diageo World Class program to United States.”
To participate, bartenders and mixologists can register at www.DiageoWorldClassUSA.com and complete three online educational modules which will enrich their skills and knowledge of the art of the cocktail. The modules will focus on the history of classic and innovative recipes, experienced both behind and in front of the bar. These studies will cover topics such as Classics With a Twist Asian Influences and Gentlemen’s and Women’s Drinks. Participants will also use their new knowledge to submit an original cocktail recipe and instructional video featuring premium spirits from the Diageo Reserve portfolio, including Ketel One Vodka, Ciroc Vodka, Tanqueray No. Ten Gin, Zacapa Rum, Bulleit Bourbon, Johnnie Walker Blended Scotch Whisky and Tequila Don Julio.
The USBG along with World Class U.S. will host a series of six events across the country. From April 23rd through May 15, 2012, renowned mixologist and Tanqueray Global Brand Ambassador Angus Winchester will travel to Houston, Miami, Chicago, Boston, Seattle and New York to recruit bartenders and inform participants about the international program. Winchester will also use his industry expertise to judge cocktail recipe submissions and select 20 finalists to compete in the final challenge.
The World Class U.S. will culminate on June 19, 2012 with a final event in New York City. In conjunction with the USBG, the event will consist of the chosen finalist who will partake in four challenges administered and judged by cocktail experts. Participating luminaries include Tony Abou-Ganim, Jim Meehan, Steve Olson and Julie Reiner, who will judge based on the knowledge the contenders have attained from the educational modules. Additionally, Dale DeGroff and Gary Regan will award the winner with the honor and opportunity to hold the title of World Class U.S. Ambassador.
“Diageo World Class is the most prestigious cocktail program in the world, and I’m priviledged to help initiate the effort in the United States,” said Angus Winchester. “It’s going to be a captivating experience watching the nation’s top mixologists honor the culture of cocktails through the knowledge, skills and appreciation they’ve acquired throughout the program. We just ask that everyone celebrate their craft responsibly.”
