Isadora Petinari from 9 Below Bar in Dublin has been named the World Class Ireland Bartender of the Year 2025 and will go on to represent Ireland in the Global World Class Finals taking place in Canada in September. Following a spectacular final held on Spike Island, Cork, Isadora triumphed over tough competition from fellow finalists Harry Broadhurst (Cask, Cork) and Akram Bendjeddou (Paladar, Cork) in the ultimate test of cocktail artistry and hospitality.
The World Class Ireland Finals 2025 took place in Cork over two days, with the first challenge tasking competitors with creating curated moments for the judges using The Singleton of Dufftown Single Malt Scotch Whisky. This challenge was closed to the public and required the bartenders to create a serve that focused on utilising all of the five senses to enhance the cocktail experience.
On Day two, World Class took over Spike Island, where over one hundred guests were in attendance to be part of the Don Julio Pop-Up Challenge and were treated to innovative cocktail menus, showcasing the finalist’s creativity, technical expertise and exceptional hospitality. For this challenge, the finalists were given a small budget to create a one-of-a-kind, Don Julio bar to serve their unique cocktails from, along with bespoke personalised menus to highlight their cocktail offerings.
“The inspiration behind my ‘All Is Not What It Seems’ bar concept is that as we are more than entertainers, we are educators of this industry. I’m thrilled and honoured to be named World Class Ireland Bartender of the Year. The competition was incredibly tough – the talent across the nation is incredible and I’m so grateful for the support to date. I’m looking forward to representing Ireland in Toronto and giving it my all” explained Isadora following her win.
“The level of talent on display at the World Class Ireland final was truly exceptional, we were blown away by the creativity, skill and passion of all three finalists. Isadora’s cocktail serves stood out, demonstrating a deep understanding of flavour, technique, cocktail artistry and the art of hospitality. Roll on September in Toronto as we bring her to a global stage!” says Cal Byrne, Head of Advocacy at Diageo Ireland.
Isadora will now represent Ireland at the World Class Global Finals in Toronto, Canada, this September, competing against the world’s best bartenders for the coveted title of World Class Global Bartender of the Year 2025. She will remain the Irish Champion for the next year, giving her the opportunity to lead various events & be a pivotal part of next year’s competition.
The World Class Ireland final on Spike Island was one to remember, highlighting Cork’s vibrant bar scene and the exceptional talent within the Irish bartending community.
Beyond the Don Julio pop-up bar activation, guests at the finals enjoyed a range of immersive experiences across the island. These included an exclusive whiskey tasting led by Roe & Co Head Distiller, Lora Hemy, and activations from luxury spirits brands like Ketel One Vodka, Tanqueray Gin, and The Singleton of Dufftown Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
World Class represents more than just a competition; it’s a global platform igniting passion for the art of the cocktail and inspiring a new appreciation for refined drinks culture.
