HCCM FINLAND FINALISTS
03.06.2025
FINLAND Finalists
On April 28th, the Finnish bar scene came together at The Firm in Helsinki for a special celebration of creativity, community, and Cuban spirit. The venue, known for its laid-back and unpretentious vibe, was the perfect backdrop for the national final of the Havana Club Cocktail Maestros.
Finalist teams from across the country gathered to present their signature cocktails, support one another, and share an experience that was about much more than just competition. The day started with a relaxed mentoring session and a proper introduction to the judges, setting the tone for what would be a day of inspiration and connection. True to Havana Club’s DNA, the atmosphere blended good energy with genuine passion for the craft.
As the competition got underway, each team stepped behind the bar with one mission: to tell a story, express their vision, and bring out the best of Havana Club rum in their creation. And it was Jami Kalliorinne and Casimir Snellman, representing Café Kuluma in Oulu, who truly stood out.
Their cocktail, Sol de Oriente, captivated the judges with its technical finesse and vivid tropical profile, combining the sweetness of papaya, the smoothness of coconut, and the richness of Havana Club 7 Años. The drink’s bright golden hue echoed the sunrise over eastern Cuba, a thoughtful nod to the region’s history and natural beauty. Their presence behind the bar was as polished as it was authentic, with smooth teamwork, clear storytelling, and a natural flow that made them impossible to ignore.
Huge congratulations to all the finalists for their creativity and energy, and a big shoutout to Jami and Casimir as they move forward to the regional and global stages of the Havana Club Cocktail Maestros. The journey is just getting started.
The event also gained industry recognition, as the Havana Club Cocktail Maestros National Final Finland was featured in Avec Media, a leading Finnish online magazine for professionals in food, beverage, and events (Article)
An homage to the soul of Eastern Cuba
30 ml Havana Club 7 Años
– 15 ml Honeydew melon & papaya liquor
– 60 ml Honeydew melon & papaya milk punch
– 10 ml Papaya seed & lime tincture
Garnish:
– Glass rimmed coconut milk
– Half rim coated with coconut flakes
