This February nine bartenders from across the world will travel to Trinidad & Tobago to compete for the world title of Angostura Global Cocktail Challenge (AGCC) 2020.
The competition, which is now in its 10th year, welcomed 318 entrants competing from 55 countries.
After impressing judges in the regional heats, the nine finalists are revealed as Shana Rajahram from Trinidad & Tobago; Marv Cunningham from The Bahamas; Chad Lawrence from Canada; Gustavo Costa from Brazil; Mike Jordhoy from France; Rohan Massie from Australia; Vasile Dorofeev from Dubai; and Agung Satria from Vietnam. Representing the UK is Simon Dacey.
At the final, which will take place during the Trinidad & Tobago Carnival, the competitors will be tasked with mixing two drinks in seven minutes while entertaining judges with their knowledge about cocktails, the category and Angostura. They will also need to complete a rigorous interview.
Ahead of the competition, there will be opportunity for the bartenders to deepen their knowledge of Angostura through distillery and museum tours and tutored tastings as well as to experience the island’s rich culture.
2020’s winner will receive the coveted title of Angostura Global Cocktail Challenge Champion, a cash prize of $10,000 (around £7,500) and a two-year contract as global brand ambassador for Angostura aromatic bitters, Angostura orange bitters, Angostura Rums and Amaro di Angostura.
The victor will also have the opportunity to revisit Angostura’s home in Trinidad & Tobago to serve as a judge in the next AGCC global finals.
Rahim Mohammed, Angostura’s executive manager – corporate services & marketing, said: “The diversity of talent the Angostura Global Cocktail Challenge helps to shine a light on is outstanding.
“The one thing all of these finalists have in common is a real and urgent passion for their craft, for many it is a calling, an incredible talent for mixing drinks and a great way of telling stories and engaging an audience.
“I can’t wait to see all nine of these finalists in action here in Trinidad & Tobago and for them to experience one of the most incredible weeks on our beautiful islands.”
