Representing the Cuban capital, the three winning teams from the Havana Club Cocktail Maestro semi-final will now compete for the coveted title in the finals this June. This is a prelude to both the regional contest in Colombia later this year and the global showdown in 2026.
The victorious duos are comprised of Mario Luís Acosta and Alejandro Fleites, Felipe Manuel Manresa and José Luís Rubín, and the talented female bartending team of Gabriela Méndez and Natalie Valdés.
A total of 20 teams, hailing from Havana and Matanzas province, showcased their expertise in the art of rum mixology, blending the spirit with various ingredients to craft exquisite cocktails imbued with authentic Cuban essence. The Daiquirí and Mojito, celebrated for their uniquely delectable flavor, serve as shining examples of this tradition.
Specialists noted that the competition fostered a spirit of camaraderie that was distinctly Cuban, reflecting the island's vibrant cultural heritage.
The iconic Havana Club Rum Museum, which marked its 25th anniversary this past March, provided the backdrop for this prestigious event.
Havana Club International S.A., a joint venture between Cuba Ron S.A. (responsible for the rum's production) and the French Pernod Ricard Group, was established in November 1993 with the goal of expanding the brand internationally.
Since 1994, Havana Club has been a core focus for Pernod Ricard and is now recognized as one of the Group’s top 13 leading spirit brands. A global leader in Super Premium and Superior rums, it stands as the third largest international rum brand in the world, exported to over 125 countries worldwide, with the notable exception of the USA due to the trade embargo.
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