It’s time to reinvigorate the retro with Club Suntory.
It has always been about passion and flair, offering a welcoming level playing field for all to join, as well as inspiring the careers of industry leaders like Tim Philips-Johansson, Jessica Arnott, Gorge Camorra, and Simon McGoram. Now, with the launch of Club Suntory, the Advocacy team at Suntory Global Spirits are bringing the energy and spirit to inspire a new era of bartenders.
Foster your inner ‘Yatte Minahare’
Inspired by Suntory’s founder, Shinjiro Torii’s ‘Yatte Minahare’ spirit (meaning “Go for it!”), this year’s Suntory Cup is calling on hospitality professionals to step up with courage and creativity.
Club Suntory welcomes hospitality professionals from all levels to enter the competition, offering a unique opportunity to showcase your passion, your craft and your skills.
The two National Champions will be rewarded with a trip to Japan, the birthplace of Suntory, where they will experience the legendary Suntory distilleries, Yamazaki and Hakushu, savour world-renowned spirits, and immerse themselves in Japan’s famous bar culture.
Reinvigorate the retro!
Classic cocktails are the cornerstone of our industry, and this year, Club Suntory invites you to celebrate their timeless appeal, using one of Suntory Global Spirits’ iconic brands.
The Suntory Cup calls on you to embrace nostalgia by creating a cocktail inspired by the past.
But it’s not just about the drink. In the spirit of Omotenashi – the Japanese art of hospitality – the story behind your cocktail, the care you put into its presentation, and the experience you offer your guests will be just as important. Show the team how your creation brings the past to life with your signature flair.
How to enter
In the entry phase, there are two categories to choose from:
1. Club Omoroi: For those with over two years behind the bar, ready to lead with creativity and innovation, embracing the spirit of mastery and excellence.
2. Club Yatte Minahare: For bartenders with less than two years experience who are driven by bold curiosity, a desire to grow, and embrace the “Go for it!” spirit that Suntory champions.
Club Kaizen
This year, a People’s Choice Award in each state will see four Rising Stars recognised for their growth, commitment, and positive influence within their communities.
These exceptional individuals will be selected (by you) at the Suntory Showdown events in July and August, and invited to the Grand Final, joining Club Suntory for its most prestigious celebration of the year.
Judging criteria
Entries will be assessed based on four key elements, each reflecting the essence of Suntory’s dedication to craftsmanship, hospitality, and storytelling:
The Suntory Serve (40%) The name of the cocktail, the recipe, the garnish, and the method – crafted with care, reflecting the artistry of Suntory’s spirit.
Storytelling (20%) The narrative behind your creation and its connection to the ‘retro’ theme, honouring the tradition and innovation that define Suntory’s journey.
Cocktail Presentation (20%) The visual harmony and creativity captured in a photo or video, embodying the beauty of balance and design.
Omotenashi Service (20%) Your approach to hospitality, reflecting the warmth and precision of Omotenashi – how the cocktail is served and the thoughtful attention to detail that elevates the guest experience, in true Suntory style.
Entry Deadline: 19 May 2025
Join the club
Suntory Global Spirits is also proud to offer bar professionals of all experience levels access to industry-leading programs, resources, and experiences through Club Suntory – a welcoming space where camaraderie, craftsmanship, and continuous learning thrive.
Whether you are discovering new drink techniques, reimagining classic recipes, or exploring our iconic distilleries, we are here to support and celebrate every step of your journey.
Suntory Global Spirits Group Advocacy manager, John Galiatsatos, said, “Club Suntory is more than just a training program; it’s a movement to empower and inspire bar professionals from all backgrounds.”
Visit club.suntory.com for all the details.