Havana Club International is seeking to continue Cuba’s reputation for world-class cocktails by inviting bartenders from around the world to enter the 10th edition of its renowned Havana Club Grand Prix, with this year’s contestants competing to create a new Cuban cocktail to rival traditional favourites such as the Mojito and the Daiquiri.

The Havana Club Grand Prix has become one of the most respected cocktail competitions in the world amongst the bartender community since it was first launched in 1996. The best bartender from each market was selected during national heats.

The Maltese Contestant who will be representing Malta during the final in Havana/Cuba is Mr. Theo Antonelli. A bartender with passion, an eye for detail and a drive for perfection. Mr. Antonelli has longstanding experience in the hospitality industry and is currently employed at Radisson Blue Resort. He is a member of the Maltese Bartenders Guild, which is a network of like minded professionals dedicated to the continued refinement of their craft.

Mr. Antonelli will fly to Havana, Cuba in June  for a five-day trip, which will culminate with the global final.

Mr. Stafrace, General Manager of FBIC Ltd, the official importer of Havana Club Rum in Malta explained, that during the trip, the finalists will be immersed in Cuban life and culture with renowned rum experts - including Havana Club’s maestro ronero Asbel Morales; spirits historians, Jared Brown and Anistatia Miller; pioneering mixologist, Tony Conigliaro; and leading spirits writer, Dave Broom - all on hand to share their knowledge of Cuban culture, cocktails and flavours, rum production and cantinero bartending techniques and style.