After two exciting weeks of in-bar judging, filled with authentic moments, bold flavors, and a true sense of hospitality, the jury has selected the winning team from Bulgaria. 

Congratulations to Anton Grigorov and Vasil Shopov, two outstanding bartenders whose talent, passion; impressed the judges. Welcoming them in their home bars, we discovered two professionals completely at ease in their element, where their creativity flows freely, and their vision comes to life one cocktail at a time. 

Their winning cocktail reflects not only their technical mastery, but also the harmony between two distinct personalities. Drawing on warm, nutty notes of orgeat and the exotic depth of spiced mango, Anton and Vasil created a drink that speaks of balance and contrast. Blending lime, coconut milk, and Havana Club 7 Años, then clarifying the mix to achieve perfect harmony, they crafted a cocktail that evokes the vibrant richness of Afro-Latin culture. It’s a creation born from duality, two visions coming together to form something greater than the sum of its parts. 

Unlike a formal event, this edition of HCCM2 in Bulgaria embraced a more personal format. The laid-back Cuban atmosphere allowed participants to express their full creative freedom, and the jury had the rare privilege of experiencing each cocktail in the place it was born. 

Cocktail
– 45 ml Havana 7 Años
– 25 ml Spicy Mango Purée
– 10 ml Orgeat Syrup
– 30 ml Lime Juice

Method
– All ingredients combined and clarified through coconut milk

Garnish
– Coconut salt rim