The Mango Bay Bartender Competition 2026 took place in Mauritius, with the grand finale scheduled for November 12 at the Sir Gaëtan Duval Hotel School. The competition, organized by Oxenham Group through Oxenham Craft Distillery in partnership with Emporia Brands, seeks to highlight Mauritian expertise, promote local creativity, and showcase the country's rum production.
Twelve finalists were announced at a reception held on October 28 at Thirsty Bistro in Moka. The candidates will be evaluated by an international jury consisting of Georgi Radev, World Tiki Bartender of the Year 2011, and Jack Rackham, general manager of Emporia Brands. The competition criteria include creativity, technique, presentation, and the ability to showcase Mauritian rum.
The competition challenges bartenders from hotels, bars, and restaurants across the island to create two original cocktails, each featuring a different Mauritian rum. The first cocktail must be made with Mango Bay Mauritian Rum, a blend of aged rums from molasses and cane juice. The second cocktail must feature Oaks & Ames White Mauritian Rum, produced exclusively from cane juice.
Alan Oxenham, Chief Marketing Officer of E.C. Oxenham & Co Ltd, stated that the initiative aims to celebrate Mauritian rum heritage and provide a platform for local talent. He emphasized that the competition is a way to offer visibility to bartenders who are ambassadors of Mauritian hospitality. Oxenham also expressed his hope that the creations presented will become signature cocktails, attracting consumers to the establishments where they are served.
Among the participants is Sachin Samoburthia, bartender and bar supervisor at Constance Prince Maurice. Having previously participated in several competitions, including Barmaster Mauritius and World Class, Samoburthia views this experience as a challenge, particularly in terms of balancing flavors. He thanked his establishment for the opportunity to represent them and for the trust placed in him.
The grand prize winner will receive a week's training in London with Georgi Radev and the team from Laki Kane, a renowned establishment known for its expertise in rum. The competition is open to bartenders working in hotels, bars, and restaurants across the island, providing them with a unique opportunity to showcase their skills and creativity.
The Mango Bay Bartender Competition 2026 is a celebration of Mauritian rum and local talent, offering a platform for bartenders to showcase their creativity and skills. The competition aims to promote the country's rum production and provide a unique experience for participants, with the grand prize winner receiving training from a renowned expert in the field.
Key points
- The competition features 12 finalists who will compete in the grand finale on November 12.
- The grand prize winner will receive a week's training in London with Georgi Radev and the team from Laki Kane.
- The competition aims to promote Mauritian rum heritage and provide a platform for local bartenders to showcase their creativity and skills.
