Nikka Perfect Serve is back

The Nikka Perfect Serve cocktail competition will return to Australia in August, challenging bartenders to embrace their own culture, history and heritage.

Presented by Nikka Whisky, the competition takes its inspiration from the Japanese philosophy ‘ichi-go, ichi-e’, meaning ‘one moment, one encounter’ and reminding bartenders to cater to the unique needs and mood of each guests, from the drinks to the service.

To enter, bartenders must submit a cocktail recipe that meets the theme of this year’s challenge: Bridging Time and Taste. Using techniques and ingredients that represent their own background, Nikka challenges contestants to create a drink that bridges the brand’s timeless tradition and modern innovation.

By encouraging bartenders to delve into their own cultures, the theme pays homage to Nikka Whisky’s founder Masataka Taketsuru, who traversed the world on his mission to create the perfect Japanese whisky.

Marcus Parmenter, Nikka Whisky’s Brand Ambassador, says: “Australia is home to some of the best cocktail bars in the world, and we have no shortage of talent here. I can’t wait to taste the cocktails the bartenders have to offer, but more so I can’t wait to hear the stories that they can share and learn why they designed these cocktails the way they did.

“Being challenged to make a cocktail based on their culture and heritage will draw out so much of what our vibrant and diverse community has to offer, and I’m excited to see the love that the bartenders pour into their drinks.”

Participants can use any Nikka spirit in their cocktails – whisky, gin or vodka. Finalists will showcase their signature Bridging Time and Taste cocktails, as well as preparing two omakase drinks improvised by judges playing different guest roles.

Not only will bartenders be judged on their technical skills, creativity and product knowledge, they will also be judged on their service, communication and capacity to uphold Japan’s long tradition of warm hospitality.

Registrations are now open with the Australian finals set to take place in Melbourne on 25 August. One winner will progress to the global final, flying to Hong Kong in November to compete against 14 other regional winners. Both the winner and runner up of the global finals will win a trip to Japan next year, experiencing Nikka’s Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries and some of the country’s top bars.

Registrations for the 2025 Nikka Perfect Serve are now open until Tuesday 29 July, entries can be submitted here.