DIAGEO Partners with Tales of the Cocktail Foundation
For over a decade, World Class has celebrated the craft, creativity and excellence of bartenders across the nation. This year marks the start of a new chapter for the U.S. bartending program, with two trade industry leaders joining forces to launch Tales of the Cocktail Foundation Presents World Class Sponsored by DIAGEO.
DIAGEO North America and Tales of the Cocktail Foundation is set to become a year-round program that empowers bartenders through professional development, connection and long-term growth, according to the company.
“We’re thrilled to partner with DIAGEO to continue growing the World Class U.S. program and welcoming bartenders of all backgrounds and experience into this expanded platform,” said Taylor Barron, director of partnerships at Tales of the Cocktail Foundation, in a news release. “Tales has always been driven by the mission to educate and support the bar community. Working with DIAGEO North America will allow us to amplify that impact, offering American bartenders even more opportunities for growth, connection and recognition on both a national and global scale.”
New Program Features
Tales of the Cocktail Foundation Presents World Class Sponsored by DIAGEO will introduce more ways for bartenders to connect and grow, according to the company, from one-on-one mentorship opportunities linking participants with local leaders across the joint communities to expanded ways to participate as judges, mentors, coaches or trainees throughout the year, and even workshops in local markets.
“We are proud to continue our legacy of supporting the trade and are thrilled to be sponsoring the Tales of Cocktail Foundation’s World Class U.S. competition,” said Erin Creighton, director of marketing for on-premise at DIAGEO, in the release. “Our mission is to support and champion those behind the bar, creating opportunities to connect the best talent and training in the country to uplift the hospitality community to new heights.”
Starting November 12, 2025, applications will open for the 2026 competition cycle for bartenders of all levels and backgrounds nationwide at www.worldclassus.com. Participants will compete for the title of 2026 U.S. Bartender of the Year and the opportunity to represent the United States at the 2026 World Class Global Finals in Dubai, according to the company.
As part of the new partnership with Tales of the Cocktail Foundation, each of the Top 15 finalists will also attend Tales Of The Cocktail 2026. This opportunity includes a weeklong VIP pass unlocking immersive tastings, expert-led education and curated networking, according to the company.
Key dates for the 2026 competition are as follows:
November 12, 2025: Applications open
January 12, 2026: Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. PST to be considered for the 2026 Tales Of The Cocktail Foundation Presents World Class Sponsored By DIAGEO
Early March 2026: Top 100 Announced
Mid March 2026: Top 15 National Finalists Announced
Spring 2026: National Finals to crown the 2026 US Bartender of the Year
Summer 2026: The 2026 World Class Cocktail Festival and Global Finals will take place in Dubai
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