Bangkok enjoys the limelight in the global gastronomic scene, but the bustling capital is becoming a prominent drinking destination, with local bars winning regional accolades, not to mention Thai mixologists recently emerging victorious in global cocktail competitions.
One of those behind the city’s vibrant bar scene is Diageo Reserve World Class. The program has revolutionized Bangkok’s bar scene—as well as in more than 60 countries—through intensive bartender training programs that equip the city’s mixologists with essential knowledge on different kinds of spirits and concoctions, not to mention skills that can help them when they compete in the World Class Bartender of the Year competition, held annually to find each country’s—and the world's—best bartender.
"7 nights, 40 bars and unlimited drinking experiences"
For the first time ever, Diageo Reserve World Class celebrates Bangkok’s emerging bar culture with the World Class Cocktail Festival. From 5 to 11 June, the week-long celebration will spotlight the vibrancy of the city’s cocktail scene, gathering 40 of Bangkok’s best bars to serve signature drinks using premium spirits in Diageo’s collection, such as Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve, The Singleton of Dufftown 12 Years, Tanqueray London Dry Gin, Ketel One Vodka and Copper Dog Blended Malt Scotch Whiskey.
The festival will also shake things up with exclusive guest shifts by rising stars in the international bartending scene, including Daniel Schofield, assistant bartender of Coupette in London; Lester Ligon, winner of Diageo World Class Philippines 2018; and Simone Rossi, who emerged victorious at Diageo World Class Hong Kong and Macao 2018. The famed Kaitlyn Stewart, winner of Diageo World Class Global Finals in 2017, and Parom Leo Malakul, bartender of renowned local haunt Backstage Cocktail Bar, will also have their own guest shifts.
Apart from indulging in creative cocktails from some of the city’s most favorite bars, you can also get a chance to win special prizes. Just take part in the guest shift sessions to be eligible for access passes to the World Class Thailand final competition on 11 June at SO Sofitel Hotel Bangkok.
Read more about the festival here.