The world's best bartenders do battle in SA

Taking place from 31 August to September, 2015, in Joburg and Cape Town, this year's Diageo Reserve World Class Bartender of the Year competition is the biggest yet, with 55 bartenders from over 50 countries - including more female finalists than ever before - competing to be crowned best bartender in the world.

The mixology event provides a platform to celebrate the crème de la crème of the world's bartenders - those who will set industry trends and standards at the world's best bars while elevating the craft and building the luxury drinking industry around the world.

While there can be only one winner, the talent on show throughout the competition will show how the knowledge of quality spirits, the pedigree of ingredients and the pioneering of drinks-making techniques are cultivating next-level creativity underlining the fact that bartenders are as talented and creative as their chef counterparts.

The Global Final will be judged by the world's most respected mixology and taste experts and attended by trend-leading editors, industry experts, renowned bar owners and a selection of guest judges who are also respected craftspeople in their fields.

"In order to impress the judges, bartenders must exhibit originality, precision, showmanship and the ability to connect with consumers. They will be tested to their limits, working under pressure to create not only beautiful drinks, but also memorable experiences. Each year I am astounded and inspired by the level of talent, skill and innovation the participants bring to the competition," said Spike Marchant, global ambassador for World Class.