Aashie Bhatnagar, ‘Innovation Artist’ at Cobbler and Crew, Pune, has been crowned ‘World Class India Bartender of the Year 2023’ by Diageo Reserve. Her display of craftsmanship and innovation in cocktails and mixology earned her the prestigious title.

Aashie will now represent India at the global finals in Sao Paolo (Brazil) in September 2023, captivating audiences with her sound understanding of spirits, creative mixology, and compelling liquid storytelling.

The World Class India Finale, held at the Leela Ambiance in Gurugram, showcased the talent in numerous challenges of 15 finalists from the top bars around the country. Along with winning the World Class India title, Aashie also managed to grab first place in the Signature Serve category.

Aashie demonstrated exceptional innovation, flair and skill in crafting cocktails, impressing the judges with unique flavour infusions and expertise in ingredient layering. Her vision to redefine cocktail culture with quality serves aligned perfectly with the #AGlassOfWorldClass narrative.

The jury included Ashish Kapur (entrepreneur and restaurateur), Manu Chandra (Chef and restauranter), Jenna Ba (Global Tanqueray & No. 10 Ambassador), Millie Tang (mixologist and photographer), and Yangdup Lama (expert bartender and bar owner).

“World Class provides an extraordinary platform for aspiring bartenders to showcase their passion, skill and knowledge of the art of cocktail-making. The cocktail culture in India has reached new heights, fueled by radical innovations in flavours and the use of local ingredients,” said Aashie.

Cobbler and Crew is Pune’s first cocktail society, a high-energy bar to enjoy and discover drinks in a cocktail-first space. Within the span of just 4 months of launch, it won the award for ‘Best Work in Sustainability’ by 30 Best Bars India.