#Japan #Tokyo #Hennessy #Haruna Sakata #Japan Final

Hennessy Global Cocktail Competition 2025 Japan Final

The highly-anticipated Hennessy Global Cocktail Competition, known as #HennessyMyWay, held its 2025 Japan Final at the stunning Sanctuary Court Biwako in Shiga Prefecture. The competition, now in its sixth year, aims to showcase the extraordinary creativity and talent of bartenders from around the globe, and this year's event did not disappoint.

With around 100 applicants nationwide, only ten finalists made it to the Japan Final held on August 20, 2025, in Shibuya, Tokyo. Among them, Haruna Sakata of Sanctuary Court Biwako emerged victorious with her remarkable cocktail, “Meguru.” This year's competition witnessed a thrilling showdown as talented bartenders utilized Hennessy V.S and Hennessy X.O to craft innovative and sustainable cocktails. The competition celebrates not only cocktail creativity but also the philosophy of sustainability, which has been a key aspect since Japan officially joined the competition in 2023.

Haruna expressed her gratitude for the support she received throughout her journey: "I couldn't have come this far without the support of my colleagues and superiors. I'm genuinely thrilled and hope to follow in the footsteps of previous champions like Daichi Takahashi and Yuuya Takahashi. I will work hard to become a global champion in France this October!"

The second place was claimed by Kouki Ohyama from Grand Exclu Toba, while Yuya Asato from Bar NOW secured the third position. Each finalist presented their unique creations to the judges, showcasing both taste and presentation. Adjudicating this prestigious event were notable figures in the bartending community, including last year’s champion, Yuuya Takahashi, who also served as a judge this time around.

About the Winning Cocktail: “Meguru”

• - Hennessy X.O: 40ml
• - Homemade Wakayama Tea: 20ml
• - Environmental Meguru Cordial (homemade): 10ml
• - Environmental Meguru Mist (homemade): 1 spray
• - Garnish: Caramelized fig and fig leaf

Haruna’s cocktail symbolizes the connections between people and ingredients, brought together in a tribute to cherished moments and memories with family and friends. The use of unique fruits and leaves demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and respect for the ingredients' lifecycle, merging flavors to reflect rich complexity and lasting impressions.

Finalists' Cocktails

Second Place: Kouki Ohyama

Cocktail: Shin’on

• - Hennessy X.O: 40ml
• - Peony Cordial: 10ml
• - Cascara Tea: 10ml
• - Bamboo Memory Tea: 15ml
• - Homemade Infusion Tea: 5ml
• - Ice sphere from Miyagawa’s water: 1 piece

Kouki's cocktail blends traditional floral notes with a modern twist, showcasing regional ingredients from Mie Prefecture.

Third Place: Yuya Asato

Cocktail: “H” Our Way

• - Hennessy X.O: 30ml
• - Regenerative Soil Hydrosol: 20ml
• - Permaculture Yuzu Solution: 20ml
• - Terroir Sake Syrup: 10ml
• - Garnish: Shiso Rebirth Tempura

Yuya’s creation emphasizes a connection to the land, utilizing locally-sourced components to represent his philosophy as a bartender.

Judging Criteria

The judges evaluated the cocktails based on tasting experience, sustainability, uniqueness, product knowledge, and performance. This holistic assessment gave each contestant an opportunity to showcase their skills in a memorable setting.

Background of Hennessy

Founded in 1765, Hennessy has dominated the cognac industry with its revolutionary approach and unrivaled quality. With a legacy that spans over 250 years, the brand has become a global cultural icon, deeply rooted in French heritage. Recognized for its commitment to innovation, Hennessy partners with artists and creators worldwide to celebrate the diversity and richness of its cognac products.

For more information about Hennessy and its products, visit the official website: Hennessy Official Website.