Sixes Shakes Things Up At Classic Cocktail Competition

The bar was buzzing, the pressure was high, and the competition was fierce — but when the shakers finally hit the counter and the final scores were tallied, one thing was clear: Sixes had made its mark.

Our very own Luke Leiper, Head of Drinks for Sixes Social Cricket, was crowned Bartender of the Year at the 2025 Classic Cocktail Competition — a well-earned title that celebrates not just one man’s skill, but a culture of craft, creativity and consistency that runs through everything we do.

Where Craft Meets Competition

Held annually, the Classic Cocktail Competition brings together some of the best bartenders from across the UK — a showcase of creativity, technique and cool-headed precision under pressure. Each contestant is asked to recreate and reimagine a series of classic serves, from the bright and citrusy to the dark and complex, all judged on taste, presentation, and consistency.

This year’s event saw fourteen bartenders representing some of the most respected names in hospitality — from national restaurant groups to independent cocktail bars. The field was brimming with talent, but from the first round, Luke set a tone of quiet confidence. His drinks were sharp, balanced, and executed with the kind of control that only comes from hours of practice and a deep understanding of flavour.

By the end of the day, Luke had impressed the judges across the board, taking home both Fortunella Sour of the Yearand the ultimate title: Bartender of the Year 2025.

A Word from Luke

Reflecting on the win, Luke kept his trademark composure:

It’s a philosophy that perfectly sums up Sixes’ approach to the bar experience. Whether it’s a signature serve, a post-game pint, or a simple G&T done perfectly, we believe every guest deserves that same attention to detail.

Standing Among the Best

Of course, Luke wasn’t alone in raising the standard. The competition was packed with outstanding performances from across the industry — and we were proud to share the stage with some incredible talent.

Jacques Quinn of The Alchemist was a standout throughout the day, taking home multiple category wins including Spiced Mojito, Old Fashioned, and Tom Collins of the Year. His technical precision and flair for presentation made him one to watch from the start.

Noah Macer, a 19-year-old rising star representing Urban Pubs & Bars, claimed the Pornstar Martini title — an impressive feat for someone making their debut on the competition circuit.

Tino Buscail from Drake & Morgan earned top honours for his Paloma, bringing a burst of freshness and bold flavour to the judges’ table.

And from across the country, bartenders representing Flight Club, Lime Wood, The Pig, and The Inn Collection Groupshowcased their own takes on cocktail classics — each proving just how vibrant and inventive the UK bar scene has become.

Being part of that lineup — and then emerging as overall winner — makes this victory even more meaningful.

What This Win Means for Sixes

For Sixes, this isn’t just a moment of recognition — it’s a reflection of the standards we hold ourselves to every day. Behind every cocktail on our menu sits the same balance of creativity and discipline that Luke demonstrated on that competition stage.

We’re known for the energy of our cricket nets, the buzz of our social spaces, and the laughter that fills our venues — but we take our craft seriously. Whether it’s a handcrafted serve at the bar or a freshly poured pint for your post-game celebration, every detail matters.

Luke’s win is a proud moment for our entire team, but it’s also a promise: that we’ll keep innovating, keep training, and keep raising the bar (quite literally) for our guests.

Looking Ahead

This recognition adds to an exciting year for Sixes — one where our teams have continued to grow, our menus have evolved, and our focus on hospitality has never been stronger.

With Luke leading the drinks programme, we’re constantly exploring new flavour pairings, seasonal serves, and creative ways to bring the Sixes spirit into every glass. From our signature cocktails to group serves and low-alcohol options, the goal remains the same: great drinks, made brilliantly, shared socially.

As for what’s next? We’ll let the drinks do the talking.

Here’s to Luke, to all the competitors who brought their best to the Classic Cocktail Competition, and to the entire Sixes family — from the bar to the nets, we’re just getting started.

— Team Sixes