Mumbai, 5^th July: The country’s best mixologists were judged for competence and flair across a multitude of challenges showcasing innovation and cocktail storytelling. Sahil Essani, Bar Manager, Taj Mahal Palace, New Delhi, was crowned the Diageo Reserve World Class 2022 India winner for pushing the boundaries of innovation when it comes to cocktails and mixology. Set to represent Indian hospitality at the Global Finals in Sydney in September 2022, Sahil displayed a sound understanding of spirits, woven into creative mixology, and amplified with liquid storytelling. The World Class Finale was held at The Quorum, Mumbai, and showcased a varied array of talent in cocktail-making by the top 13 finalists.

The World Class top 13 contenders were judged by an esteemed panel of experts, including Shatbhi Basu – Director of the Stir Academy of Bartenders, Ashish Kapur – entrepreneur and restauranteur, Manu Chandra – distinguished Chef and Diageo Craft Council Member, and Jenna Ba – Global Brand Ambassador. Through innovation, flair, and skill in the art of cocktail-making, Sahil showcased his knowledge in mixology through his use of unique flavor infusions and excellent expertise in layering cocktail ingredients. Along with his enthusiasm, Sahil’s vision of redefining the cocktail culture through quality serves showcased his synergies with #AGlassOfWorldClass and contributed to his victory and a chance to represent India at the World Class Global in September 2022.

“Diageo has always stood together with the global bar community across platforms. World Class is iconic for its remarkable platform that encourages the local bar community and promotes industry excellence worldwide. The Indian Bar community has been witnessing a transformation over the past few years with the emergence of fresh new talent, ideas, innovations, and techniques in bartending. The finale of World Class 2022 showcased the Top 13 talent across Indian bars and cities to exhibit their vision and ready to rise to be the very best in the world. Congratulations to all finalists and Sahil Essani – we are looking forward to his upping the India ante at the global finale in Sydney.’’

Shweta Jain, Chief Business Development Officer: Luxury, Reserve & Craft – India & South Asia, Diageo

“It is a privilege to be titled the winner of the World Class Bartender of the Year from India and I would like to share this success with my wonderful community who has been a huge support through this journey. World Class is a phenomenal platform for budding bartenders to showcase their passion, skill, and knowledge of the art of cocktail-making. In the past year, cocktail culture in India has reached a whole new level on the back of radical innovations in cocktail flavors, the use of local ingredients, etc. For my signature serve, I created the Attraversiamo which is inspired by the Italian phrase “Let’s Cross Over.” 

Sahil Essani, Diageo Reserve World Class 2022 India Winner

Sahil Essani is currently being mentored by Diageo India Brand Ambassadors to advance to the Global World Class Finals. 60 national winners from across the globe will battle it out in the four-day championship, moving to greater lengths.

About WORLD CLASS 

WORLD CLASS is on a mission to inspire people to drink better and create unforgettable experiences in the process. Whether at home or in a bar, WORLD CLASS encourages consumers to think and care about fine drinking in the same way they care about fine dining.  

WORLD CLASS has supported, trained, and inspired over 300,000 bartenders across the globe over the past ten years while partnering them with the world’s finest spirits – the Diageo Reserve collection. WORLD CLASS is also the authority in the drinks industry whom consumers look to for information on the latest drinks, trends, cocktail recipes, and industry insight. 

About Diageo Reserve 

Created in 2004, Diageo’s Reserve division focuses on the global luxury opportunity, bringing together brands built on strong heritage, craftsmanship, and authenticity. This luxury portfolio consists of Johnnie Walker Blue Label, Ciroc, Don Julio, Tanqueray No. TEN, Ketel One vodka, Zacapa, Bulleit, and a fine collection of Single Malts. The Reserve portfolio accounts for 16% of Diageo’s total sales and has grown by 7% this financial year.  

About Diageo 

Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands including Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, J&B, Buchanan’s and Windsor whiskies, Smirnoff and Ciroc vodkas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Don Julio, Tanqueray, and Guinness.  

Diageo is listed on both the London Stock Exchange (LSE) and the New York Stock Exchange (DEO) and our products are sold in more than 180 countries around the world. 

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