IRELAND’S BEST BARTENDERS SHAKE UP CATEX 2025

Ellie McDonagh (2nd place), Alessandro Nikolla (winner) and Kateryna Kryvytska (3rd place) with their awards at the Bartenders Association of Ireland Official Cocktail Competition 2025 at CATEX.

The Bartenders Association of Ireland burst is back with a bang, relaunching their Official Cocktail Competition on the opening day of CATEX, Tuesday 18th February. The event was proudly sponsored by Edward Dillon and showcased a thrilling display of skill, creativity, and flair as almost 40 of Ireland’s top bartenders competed for the coveted title.  

This year’s theme, “A Twist on a Classic Cocktail”, challenged bartenders to put a unique spin on a well-known cocktail, incorporating an element inspired by their current workplace. Contestants were judged by an esteemed panel, including Adrian McFadden from The Merrion Hotel, Ireland’s entry in the 2024 World Cocktail Championships and Ben Curtis, brand ambassador for Edward Dillon. With their expertise, the judges carefully critiqued entries for originality, presentation, and mastery of flavour balance. 

Alessandro Nikolla, winner of the Bartenders Association of Ireland Official Cocktail Competition 2025.

The Bartenders Association of Ireland Official Cocktail Competition concluded with an electrifying finale, naming Alessandro Nikolla, from Buffalo Boy, as Ireland’s top mixologist. Competing against 35 of the country’s finest bartenders, Alessandro Nikolla, representing Buffalo Boy in Leitrim, took home the title after impressing judges with their take on this year’s theme, “A Twist on a Classic Cocktail.” Their winning creation, Sama-Sama, impressed with its innovative approach, balance of flavours, and contemporary presentation. 

Speaking after their victory, Alessandro Nikolla said: “I’m thrilled to have won this year’s competition. The level of talent was incredibly high, and it’s an honour to be recognised among such skilled bartenders. This competition is a fantastic opportunity to showcase creativity and push the boundaries of mixology.” 

Adrian Cummins, speaking on behalf of the Bartenders Association of Ireland, remarked: “It’s fantastic to see this competition return and bring together such incredible talent. The level of creativity and passion displayed today highlights the strength of Ireland’s cocktail scene. Congratulations to Alessandro Nikolla on a well-deserved win.” 

Competition finalists alongside Edward Dillon & Co, Commercial Director, John Cassidy and RAI President, Sean Collender.

John Cassidy Commercial Director, Edward Dillon & Co, speaking on behalf of the official competition sponsor, Edward Dillon & Co, added: “As a proud supporter of Ireland’s bartending and hospitality community, we are delighted to have made our full Edward Dillon spirits portfolio available for today competition. The creativity and craftsmanship on display have been truly inspiring, and we congratulate Alessandro Nikolla on their remarkable achievement. Events and competitions like this showcase the innovation and dedication that make Ireland’s cocktail scene exciting."

For media queries contact info@bartendersassociationireland.ie or (01) 677 9901. 

For more information on the Bartenders Association of Ireland visit: https://www.bartendersassociationireland.ie/   

A full range of photographs from this week’s competition can be found at:  https://www.bartendersassociationireland.ie/post/official-cocktail-competition-2025-official-photos

All Images Credit: Paul Sherwood