Monkey Shoulder announces 8th Ultimate Bartender Championship

Monkey Shoulder, the vibrant blended malt from William Grant & Sons, has kicked off registrations for the 8th edition of its flagship Ultimate Bartender Championship (UBC). With its signature high-energy “Bartender Rumble” theme, the 2025 edition promises to be the biggest yet.

After a record-breaking of over 1,300 registrations last year, this season will expand across eight cities, starting in New Delhi on July 30, followed by Kolkata, Goa, Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Gurugram. City winners will compete in the India finale this September.

Participants will be tested in five core skill-based rounds—pouring, nosing, speed, accuracy, and perfect serve—judged by top industry professionals.

The winner of the India finale will represent the country at the first-ever regional finale in Tokyo, hosted alongside the DMC World DJ Championship, providing an international platform for Indian bartenders to shine.

Kapila Sethi Kad, Marketing Head at William Grant & Sons, said the championship “gives talent across the country a platform to shine, grow, and be celebrated.”

Joe Petch, Global Brand Ambassador for Monkey Shoulder, added, “Every year, the energy and dedication from India’s bartenders is inspiring. This edition will be bigger, bolder, and more unforgettable.”

Registrations are now open on the official Monkey Shoulder UBC website, and bartenders across India are encouraged to apply early.