Jameson Black Barrel Bartender Series back for 2026

New Zealand bartenders are invited to enter the Jameson Black Barrel Bartender Series – the global bartender competition and mentorship programme dedicated to championing creativity, community and local culture.

This is the fifth year of the competition, which drew  425 entries from 50 countries in 2025.

Entries are open from 12 January to 2 February 2026 and bartenders are asked to submit a short video showcasing an original Jameson Black Barrel cocktail, inspired by their personal story and local community.

Regional Champions from each country will be chosen – including one from New Zealand – and those 26 winners will win a three-day, all-expenses-paid trip to Ireland to attend the Jameson HOSTS Global Summit at Midleton Distillery, curated in collaboration with award-winning bar industry icon, Remy Savage, and joining more than 100 members of the global bar community for networking and seminars.

2025 Jameson HOSTS Global Summit in Ireland

A ‘Top 10’ will be selected from the Regional Champions to compete in a live final at the Jameson HOSTS Global Summit with three Global Champions determined through a unique blind-tasting judging process.

This year’s judging panel again includes Danil Nevsky of Indie Bartender, Spain alongside new additions Bannie Kang of Side Car, Singapore and Jean Trinh of Alquimico, Columbia.

The Global Champions will each win €5,000 cash and access to an innovative Jameson mentoring programme that includes in-person, virtual and digital sessions with industry leaders.

The ‘Regional Champions’ will be announced on 9th March 2026 and ‘Top 10’ Finalists confirmed on 23rd March 2026.

W: Find out how to enter the Jameson Black Barrel Bartender Series