George Hunter Crowned South Africa’s Diageo World Class Bartender of the Year 2026

George Hunter has been named South Africa’s Diageo World Class Bartender of the Year 2026 after an exhilarating mixology showdown at Naked Woolf Rosebank.

His victory secures him a place at the prestigious Diageo World Class Global Finals later this year, where he will represent South Africa against the world’s top bartenders.

A test of creativity and craftsmanship

The national finals challenged some of South Africa’s leading bartenders through a series of innovative cocktail challenges, signature serve presentations and technical mixology tests.

Designed to celebrate creativity, precision and craftsmanship behind the bar, the competition saw Hunter emerge as the overall winner after demonstrating exceptional skill, innovation and passion throughout.

Launched in 2009, Diageo World Class has become one of the world’s most respected bartending competitions and education platforms, recognising outstanding talent while helping to elevate the craft of bartending.

As South Africa’s champion, Hunter will compete against national winners from more than 50 countries for the title of World Class Global Bartender of the Year 2026.

‘Winning this competition is incredibly rewarding’

Reflecting on his achievement, Hunter said:

“I am incredibly proud to be part of a competition of this calibre that continues to elevate bartenders around the world. World Class is challenging by design; it pushes you to grow, refine your craft and constantly strive for excellence. Winning this competition knowing I gave it everything I had is incredibly rewarding, and I look forward to representing South Africa on the global stage.”

Celebrating the future of mixology

Commenting on the competition, Cebisa Luzipho, Culture Manager for Don Julio South, West & Central Africa at Diageo, said:

“At Don Julio, where culture and creativity intersect, we are committed to championing craftsmanship and celebrating the individuals shaping the future of the industry. Everything we do is inspired by the passion for exceptional tequila that our founder, Don Julio González, instilled in the brand. World Class provides the perfect platform to recognise the artistry, innovation and dedication of bartenders and mixologists while inspiring the next generation of talent.”

Representing South Africa on the world stage

The Diageo World Class Global Finals will take place later this year, where Hunter will compete against the world’s best bartenders for one of the industry’s most prestigious titles.

Don Julio Tequila, an ultra-premium tequila handcrafted in the Highlands of Jalisco, Mexico, is renowned for its rich heritage, exceptional craftsmanship and commitment to quality, values reflected throughout the World Class competition.

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