The search is on for Australia’s best all-round bartender, with the winner to compete against finalists from around the world for the ultimate title.

The unique competition, Nikka Perfect Serve, is run by prestigious Japanese whisky and spirits producer Nikka. It judges contestants not only on the quality of the cocktails they create, but their service, attention to detail and versatility.

Previously held in Melbourne and Sydney, this year the Australian competition will head to Brisbane bar Before + After in August, with 10 of Australia’s best bartenders set to battle it out over a full day competition.

The judges will play the role of bar guests while contestants run a 15-minute guest shift during which they cater to the versatile scenarios the judges play out.

This year marks Nikka’s 90th anniversary, and as such contestants will be asked to create a cocktail they would serve to Nikka’s founders, Masataka and Rita Taketsuru.

Nikka Brand Ambassador Marcus Parmenter said Nikka Perfect Serve reflected deep Japanese traditions.

‘It’s run Omakase-style, which means ‘I leave it to you’, allowing contestants to showcase their versatility and talent. The competition’s core principle is ichi-go, ichi-e, one chance one encounter. This is a core concept of bartending as well, and we look forward to seeing the bartenders showcase their understanding of this principle’.

‘We’ve chosen Brisbane for this year’s competition because the quality of bars and bartenders continues to grow there each year. Brisbane has all the ingredients of a perfect serve on its own.’

The winner of the Australian final will go to Paris in December to represent Australia against 14 other countries, with the winner and runner-up of the global competition invited to Japan to experience the Nikka distilleries and the Tokyo bar scene.

To enter go to: https://www.nikkawhisky.eu/sign-up/

About Nikka Whisky: Nikka Whisky, founded in 1934 by Masataka Taketsuru, stands as a pioneer in Japanese whisky.

Taketsuru’s journey to Scotland to study the art of whisky-making influenced Nikka’s establishment and approach. Embracing both pot still and column still methods, Nikka crafts a diverse range of distinct and balanced whiskies.

The brand’s dedication to quality and tradition has solidified its global reputation, making Nikka a symbol of Japanese whisky excellence for nine decades.

Nikka’s core product range includes:
Nikka From The Barrel
Nikka Days
Nikka Coffey Grain
Nikka Coffey Malt
Nikka Coffey Gin
Nikka Coffey Vodka
Yoichi Single Malt
Miyagikyo Single Malt
Taketsuru Pure Malt

For more information contact HeadlinePR:
Lisa Gilbert lisa@headlinepr.com.au or 0412 822673