Madhu Mandapam’s Cocktail Challenge stirs excitement

The Madhu Mandapam Cocktail Challenge at AAHAR 2025 turned up the heat with a mesmerising display of mixology prowess. Hosted on Friday, this exhilarating competition brought together some of the most talented bartenders, both budding and seasoned, who battled it out for the top spot. With an impressive lineup of brands—Golfer’s Shot Whisky, One More Vodka, Zumba Vodka, Jamun Gin, and Old Monk Coffee Rum—contestants crafted drinks using Monin syrups and other ingredients  that were as innovative as they were delicious.

The competition kicked off with a spectacular opening performance by ace mixologist and IFBA India 2024 Cocktail Winner, Sarthak Jugran. His flair bartending skills and a refreshing cocktail featuring Zumba Lemoni set the stage for an unforgettable showdown. From there, the competition intensified as participants shook, stirred, and poured magic into their glasses, captivating both the audience and the distinguished panel of judges.

The contest conducted by alcobev expert , Sarang Kumar challenged participants to prepare two signature drinks:

Monin Magic Basket – A cocktail crafted using Monin syrups.

Innovative Cocktail – A unique creation using whisky, rum, vodka, or gin.

The judging panel, featuring  ace mixologist and entrepreneur Kama KM, Kuldeep Chauhan aka K.D. from Bar Academy of Doon and Bishan Kumar (Editor-in-Chief, Spiritz Magazine),
assessed each creation on four key aspects:

Taste & Balance – The harmony of flavors in the drink.

Showmanship – Flair, technique, and stage presence.

Presentation – The cocktail’s visual appeal and creativity.

Garnish & Detailing – The final touches that make a drink stand out.

After an intense round of tastings and performances, Mixologist Sagar Khuntia emerged victorious, impressing the judges with his Negroni-inspired creation. Overwhelmed with joy, he reflected, “After winning this competition, I’m very happy. The judges advised me on balancing sweetness, which I’ll definitely work on for future contests.”

An advocate by profession and a mixologist at heart Shivangi Pandey, competing for the first time, secured the first runner-up position. “I was nervous, my hands were shaking! But I mainly wanted to participate—I never thought I’d win. Now, I feel so proud and excited to compete more,” she shared. Shivangi also highlighted the need for greater female representation in the bartending industry. “This field is still very male-dominated. I want to inspire more women to enter and make a mark.”

The second runner-up position was jointly awarded to Anand Thapa and Akhil Paliwal, both of whom demonstrated exceptional skill and creativity in their concoctions.

The winners were honoured by Anuj Soin, General Manager of Radisson Hotel Gurugram, with cash prizes— ₹30,000 for the champion, ₹20,000 for the first runner-up, and ₹10,000 for the second runner-ups—along with certificates recognising their talent.

Madhu Mandapam, India’s first-ever dedicated platform for alcoholic beverages at AAHAR 2025, will conclude on Saturday with a special Women’s Day celebration. Located at Hall 01, First Floor (near Gate No. 06), the event has transformed into a vibrant hub of tastings, immersive experiences, and industry insights.

The unique opportunity to curate an alcobev experience at AAHAR 2025 has been made possible by the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO). This initiative has provided a prestigious platform for both domestic and international brands to showcase their offerings and contribute to the evolving beverage industry in India.

Organised by Spiritz in collaboration with FIFI, ICF, and HPMF, Madhu Mandapam is shaping the future of India’s alcoholic beverage industry. Featuring major players like Diageo, Carlsberg, Allied Blenders & Distillers (ABD), Uppal Breweries & Distilleries (UBD), Alcobrew Distilleries, Mohan Meakin, Amrut Distilleries, India Glycols Ltd, and Rock and Storm Distilleries, the platform has proved to be a game-changer in the world of mixology.