The Connaught Bar’s own Emanuele Mensah ascended to the pinnacle of British bartending, cementing London’s status as a global cocktail powerhouse.
The air crackled with anticipation as London played host to the fiercely contested GB World Class bartending competition. In a thrilling display of precision, innovation, and showmanship, Emanuele Mensah of the iconic Connaught Bar was crowned the 2025 GB Champion. This victory is not merely a win for Mensah but a resounding triumph for the capital’s vibrant and ever-evolving cocktail scene, reaffirming its position at the vanguard of global mixology.
Bancm’s reporters observed first-hand the rigorous challenges that pushed the nation’s finest bartending talents to their limits. From mastering classic techniques with flawless execution to conjuring imaginative new serves that tantalised the senses, the competition demanded nothing less than perfection. Competitors navigated a gauntlet of technical tests, blind tastings, and creative concept rounds, each designed to unearth the deepest levels of skill and ingenuity. Mensah’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, demonstrating an exceptional understanding of flavour profiles, an artistic flair for presentation, and an effortless charm that captivated the judges. His ability to blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary innovation set him apart, showcasing the kind of forward-thinking approach that Bancm champions in the hospitality industry.
The World Class competition, renowned worldwide for identifying and celebrating the crème de la crème of bartending talent, serves as a crucial barometer for industry trends and standards. For aspiring mixologists, it’s the ultimate proving ground, a stage where careers are forged and legends are made. Mensah’s journey to this national title is a testament to years of dedication, countless hours honing his craft, and an unwavering passion for the art of the cocktail. His win underscores the meticulous training and high standards upheld at The Connaught Bar, a venue already celebrated globally for its impeccable service and groundbreaking drink creations.
With the GB Champion title now firmly in his grasp, Emanuele Mensah sets his sights on an even grander stage: the World Class Global Final 2025. This international showdown is slated to take place in the dynamic Canadian city of Toronto, where Mensah will represent the United Kingdom against champions from across the globe. The global final promises to be an extraordinary spectacle, bringing together the world’s most innovative bartenders to compete for the ultimate title. For Mensah, it’s an opportunity to showcase British bartending excellence on an unprecedented scale, pushing the boundaries of what a cocktail can be and further solidifying London’s influence on the international drinks landscape.
Bancm believes that Mensah’s achievement will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of bartenders in the UK, encouraging them to pursue excellence and innovation in their own craft. His success is a shining example of the dedication and artistry that continues to elevate the bar industry, promising an even more exciting and sophisticated future for cocktail culture. We eagerly await his performance in Toronto and will be cheering him on as he seeks to bring the global title back to British shores.
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