Hennessy has announced the return of Hennessy MyWay 2026, its global bartending challenge inviting Malaysia’s finest and international talent to compete on the world stage.
The competition returns as a platform for creativity, sustainability and storytelling in modern mixology, with global finalists set to travel to Cognac, France — the historic home of Hennessy — for the ultimate showdown.
A global search for modern cocktail talent
Now open for registrations, Hennessy MyWay 2026 challenges bartenders to rethink how cocktails are designed, served and experienced. At its core, the competition encourages participants to blend technical precision with personal expression, turning each drink into a story-led ritual.
This year’s edition continues to place strong emphasis on sustainability, with entrants expected to incorporate environmentally conscious techniques, minimise waste and make thoughtful use of ingredients. Alongside this, storytelling remains central, with bartenders judged on their ability to create immersive experiences that go beyond flavour alone.
From Malaysia to Cognac
The journey begins with video submissions and online registrations before progressing through masterclasses and guest shifts led by Hennessy mentors and industry professionals. Regional semi-finals will follow, before national winners advance to the Global Finals in October 2026 in Cognac.
Finalists will also benefit from mentorship sessions and knowledge-sharing programmes featuring Hennessy MyWay alumni and respected figures from the bartending community, strengthening the competition’s role as a talent development platform as well as a global showcase.
Judging craft with purpose
Entries will be evaluated across five criteria: sustainability, drinkability, ritual serve, product knowledge and appearance. Sustainability carries the highest weighting, reflecting the growing importance of responsible practices within global hospitality.
Competitors are required to submit a one-minute video showcasing the versatility of Hennessy V.S.O.P, alongside a detailed recipe and explanation of their sustainable approach and service ritual.
A platform beyond competition
More than a contest, Hennessy MyWay has evolved into a global platform supporting the next generation of bartenders. By connecting talent across regions and offering international exposure, the initiative continues to shape the future of cocktail culture through creativity, collaboration and conscious craft.
As entries open for 2026, the message is clear: the road to Cognac begins now — and Malaysia is firmly on the map.
