ABOUT THE COMPETITION
METAXA Twelve Competition is an international cocktail showdown celebrating creativity, craftsmanship, and the versatility of METAXA 12 Stars. Since its launch in 2019, this competition has drawn top bartenders from all over Europe, inspiring them to push the boundaries of mixology and craft innovative cocktails. Now, METAXA, ranked #1 and #2 Top Trending Brandy in 2025 and 2026 consecutively.*, is taking things to the next level bringing unique creations to METAXA lovers all over the world. This is Greek hospitality at its finest!
*Source – Drinks International Brands Report
FOUR STEPS TO GLOBAL FINALS IN ATHENS
1. Create your signature METAXA Cocktail: develop an innovative and delicious cocktail recipe featuring METAXA 12 Stars as the star ingredient, tailored to the competition's unique theme.
2. Register and submit your recipe: complete the online registration form, providing your name, the full recipe for your METAXA 12 Stars Sweet & Sour cocktail and other necessary information.
3. Take part in your local competition: participate in the local (country-specific) competition, showcasing your mixology skills and the unique flavours of your creation.
4. Advance to the Global Finals in Athens: If you win your local contest, you'll become one of the finalists, earning a place to compete in the Global Finals in Athens in November 2026.
JUDGING CRITERIA
30% Storytelling
Contestants must demonstrate a deep understanding of the Sweet & Sour balance - articulating their approach to structure, contrast, and harmony. They should show why their creation has the potential to become a modern classic, while staying true to the character of METAXA 12 Stars.
30% Recipe
To qualify, cocktails must include at least 30 ml of METAXA 12 Stars, have a maximum of 8 ingredients and be perfectly balanced in aroma, taste, and aftertaste.
20% Skill
Contestants must demonstrate technical precision in crafting a well-balanced Sweet & Sour cocktail - showcasing control over dilution, texture, and ingredient integration. Execution should highlight consistency, attention to detail, and the ability to elevate METAXA 12 Stars through refined, confident technique.
20% Visual Presentation
The cocktail’s presentation alignment with the competition’s “Sweet & Sour” theme and its overall shareability.
GLOBAL PRIZES
Win exclusive prizes in your local competition and secure your spot in the metaxa global finals in Athens.
The main winner will:
Claim a 2,000EUR voucher to promote themselves, their METAXA cocktails, and their bar.
Take centre stage with a guest shift at one of Athens top bars.
Be presented with METAXA Twelve Competition 2026 1st award winner trophy.
Become the face of next year’s competition, inspiring future contestants.
Receive an invitation to LIKNON Acedemia together with all global finalists.
METAXA 12 Stars
METAXA 12 Stars is made with the wine distillates
in both medium and heavily toasted oak casks.
The time spent in the heavily toasted casks
brings out more pronounced
oaky and smoky notes.
