Get your entries in for the Suntory Cup Cocktail Competition

by Molly Nicholas Apr 29, 2025

Suntory Global Spirits is bringing back one of the nation’s longest-running cocktail competitions, the iconic Suntory Cup.

Since 1986, the Suntory Cup has celebrated the craftmanship, creativity and camaraderie of the hospitality industry and its leaders, and for the 2025 edition, bartenders across the country are invited to ‘Reinvigorate the Retro’.

Embrace and reinvigorate the nostalgia of a classic cocktail using one of Suntory Global Spirits’ brands, and you could be in with the chance of winning a trip to the birthplace of Suntory. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a rookie, simply take a classic cocktail and give it your own twist.

Entries close on Monday 19 May, giving national champions across two categories – one with more and one with less than two years experience behind the bar – the opportunity to visit Japan, while four rising stars will also be recognised through a People’s Choice Award.

As part of the Suntory Cup relaunch, Suntory Global Spirits has also unveiled Club Suntory – an initiative designed to support bar professionals looking to further their career with programs, resources and content.

Replacing former training program The Blend, Suntory Cup is free to access and tailored to bar professionals at every level. Designed to connect individuals in the bar industry and form an inclusive environment, the program will provide knowledge, techniques and inspiration that allows talent to thrive and enhances the standards across the industry.

John Galiatsatos, Group Advocacy Manager at Suntory Global Spirits, says: “Club Suntory is more than just a training program; it’s a movement to empower and inspire bar professionals from all backgrounds.

“From discovering new drink strategies, reimagining the classics, or building awareness of our iconic distilleries, we will ensure that our community is equipped with the knowledge and tools to elevate their craft.

“We believe that by investing in the skills and knowledge of the industry, we can collectively elevate the experience – for professionals and patrons alike.”

Originating in the 1980s, until 2015 Club Suntory helped industry leaders like Tim Philips-Johansson, Jessica Arnott, Gorge Camorra and Simon McGoram to drive their careers.

You can find more information about the Suntory Cup and how to enter at club.suntory.com, or contact your local Brand Ambassador: