#Japan #Tokyo #Hennessy #Cocktail Bar Raven #Koki Ito

Hennessy MyWay 2026 Japan Finals: A Night to Remember

The Hennessy MyWay Global Cocktail Competition is back, and the excitement around this prestigious event continues to grow. This year, the contest saw a remarkable gathering of talented bartenders from across Japan, all eager to showcase their creativity and skills in mixology. On July 28, 2026, the Japan Finals were held at the headquarters of Moët Hennessy Japan, where the atmosphere was electric as participants vied for the top spot.

Among the ten finalists, Koki Ito from Cocktail Bar Raven in Tokyo stood out, impressing the judges with his exceptional cocktail creation and passion for cognac. He was crowned the champion of the Japan Finals and will now represent Japan at the global finals in France later this year. Koki’s victory highlights not only his talent but also his dedication to the craft of bartending and his deep appreciation for the history and craftsmanship behind Hennessy.

“Cognac is a spirit I truly love,” Koki exclaimed during his acceptance speech. “I deeply respect the producers who look towards the future while crafting their spirits. I strive to become someone like them. It is a tremendous honor to receive such a prestigious award from Hennessy, a brand that represents cognac. I aim to convey the charm of enjoying high-quality spirits to the people of France as well. Thank you for your support!”

Koki’s winning cocktail, titled ‘Bee Cause,’ beautifully encapsulated his philosophy. This drink was crafted using:

• - Hennessy X.O: 45ml
• - Japanese honey: 10ml
• - Homemade Mead Verjuice: 5ml
• - Homemade Chamomile Hydrosol: 5ml

With ‘Bee Cause,’ Koki aimed to draw attention to nature, the producers behind honey, and the importance of sustainability in the spirits industry. The cocktail served as a reminder of the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the role that bees play in food production and the spirit-making process.

Runners-Up Performance

The competition was fierce, with other participants delivering impressive performances as well. Teruyuki Kanzaki from AXTELL in Aichi Prefecture secured the second place with his innovative cocktail, ‘The Golden Tea Room.’ This cocktail featured:

• - Hennessy X.O: 45ml
• - Homemade Mirin Tea X.O Curacao: 15ml
• - Homemade Anko Tea Syrup: 15ml
• - Saltwater: 3 drops
• - Homemade Cold Brew Sencha Espresso: 20ml
• - Homemade Clear Amazake Reduction: 10ml
• - Xanthan Gum: 0.02g

The third place went to Natsu Kinoshita from Bar Eureka in Kyoto, noted for her exceptional cocktail ‘Le Tour de My Way,’ which included:

• - Hennessy X.O: 40ml
• - Homemade Kamo Eggplant Juice: 30ml
• - Homemade Saikyo Miso Infused Mead: 20ml
• - Homemade Yuzu Syrup: 10ml

The judges were impressed with the flair, creativity, and sustainability each contestant brought to their crafts, highlighting the importance of using environmentally friendly practices in the cocktail making process. Evaluating cocktails on criteria such as drink experience, visual presentation, and product knowledge, the competition emphasized the need for bartenders to cultivate a thoughtful approach in their creations.

Participants had to not only craft a delightful cocktail but also demonstrate effective storytelling and unique presentations, making it an unforgettable experience for all involved. The event attracted a crowd of cocktail enthusiasts and industry leaders who were eager to witness the next generation of bartenders shaping the future of mixology.

In addition to the competition, last year’s champion Haruna Sakata showcased her winning cocktail, ‘Meguru,’ adding a celebratory note to the event. The atmosphere was filled with camaraderie and innovation, making the Hennessy MyWay Japan Finals a significant moment in the bartending community.

About Hennessy

Established in 1765, Hennessy is a pioneering cognac brand that continues to lead the industry with its commitment to excellence and innovation. With a legacy that spans over two centuries, Hennessy is not only recognized for its iconic cognacs but also for its cultural collaborations and promotion of artistic expressions across various fields.

With Hennessy X.O earning the distinction of being the world’s first “eXtra Old” cognac in 1870, the brand showcases a deep-rooted tradition that merges craftsmanship with creativity. It remains a beacon of quality and artistry, inspiring bartenders and cocktail lovers alike.

For further details on Hennessy and its cocktails, visit the official website, or find Koki’s bar online at Cocktail Bar Raven.