Cocktail lovers, take note — World Class Singapore 2025 has officially launched, setting the stage for one of the most exciting and flavour-packed journeys in the local bar scene. What began with a dazzling launch party at The Singapore EDITION has now evolved into a three-month World Class Cocktail Festival happening across March to May 2025.

This nationwide celebration features 42 of Singapore’s finest bartenders who will showcase their creativity through exclusive cocktail menus built around five iconic spirit brands: Johnnie Walker, The Singleton, Tanqueray, Ron Zacapa, and Don Julio.

A Festival for the Senses

The World Class Cocktail Festival invites guests to sip and savour unique creations that push the boundaries of mixology. Whether it’s smoky Scotch, silky tequila, or tropical rum, each cocktail is designed to highlight the spirit’s essence while delivering bold new flavour experiences. Venues include acclaimed spots such as The Elephant Room, Origin Bar, Jigger & Pony, Nutmeg & Clove, Atlas, SUSHISAMBA, and many more.

Top contenders like Cherry Lee (Origin Bar), Navajeeivan (The Elephant Room), Zana Mohlmann (Manhattan Bar), and Anton Gornev (Mirabilis Bar) shared their inspiration behind their menus. From reinterpreting cherries in creative ways to building cocktail lineups inspired by music festivals, these bartenders are rewriting the rules of cocktail storytelling.

As Zana Mohlmann of Manhattan put it:

“Each World Class brand is reimagined as a distinct music genre, each cocktail its own stage. It’s a celebration of rhythm, creativity, and discovery.”

Meanwhile, Orman Bag-ao (CUT by Wolfgang Puck) took cues from the stock market for his lineup:

“Like traders, guests also buy drinks based on their moods and emotions. My cocktails reflect that emotional arc.”

Vote for Your Favourite Bar Experience

Consumers are encouraged to explore the participating bars and cast their vote online for the “Cocktail Experience of the Month.” While these votes don’t affect competition judging, they celebrate the innovation behind each creation and spotlight the local cocktail community.

Guest Shifts & Global Flair

To further elevate the festival, a series of international guest shifts will take place throughout the season. Expect appearances from mixology legends such as Rian Asiddao, co-founder of Bar By East and The Spirits Library in the Philippines.

Countdown to the Finals

The competition culminates in the national finals later this year, where one bartender will be crowned World Class Singapore Bartender of the Year 2025 and go on to represent Singapore at the Global Finals in Toronto this September.

The last Singaporean to clinch the global title was Bannie Kang in 2019 — could 2025 bring another champion?

Until then, raise a glass and explore the flavours that make Singapore’s cocktail scene one of the most dynamic in the world.

To follow the World Class Singapore 2025 journey or cast your vote, visit:
👉 Timeout Singapore – World Class 2025 Coverage

Follow the action on Instagram:
@worldclass

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Images: World Class Singapore 2025