2025 has been a stellar year for Hong Kong’s bar scene. Pernod Ricard’s Share. Inspire. Pioneer (SIP) Supernova 2026 programme wants to make sure a new generation of bartenders keeps it going
Earlier this year, Bar Leone clinched the win for Best Bar in Asia at 50 Best for a second time, joined by five other Hong Kong institutions – Argo, Coa, Penicillin, The Savory Project, and Gokan. Bar Leone would eventually go on to be named Best Bar in the World by 50 Best.
Along the way, there has also been a host of new bars setting up shop in Hong Kong that have made the local drinking scene more exciting, like Yume, Friday After Class, and more. All these developments have come at an opportune time when Hong Kong’s draw as a destination has been tested by stiff competition from abroad.
To ensure local hospitality talents continue to be inspired, spirits seller Pernod Ricard will be launching its SIP Supernova programme and competition in Hong Kong. It will take place across January 2026 with a mentorship-driven approach. The theme for the 2026 edition of SIP Supernova is Sensory Architecture, which is intended to explore the psychology behind what makes a great drink and a great experience. Perfect for helping the next generation of bartenders hone in on what makes a great bar tick.
The programme will culminate in a competition at Gokan on January 26, 2026 with the winner being invited to compete at a global final taking place in Tokyo in May 2026. That’s not all. Prizes for the global finalists include a week with the Alquimico team in Cartagena, Colombia, training with Jean Trinh and his team at one of the World’s 50 Best Bars and an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience at the Codigo 1530 Distillery in Mexico.
The SIP Supernova 2026 Hong Kong & Macau judging panel consists of renowned local industry professionals with extensive experience and expertise. This includes: Antonio Lai (co-owner of Tastings Group), Shingo Gokan (founder of SG Group), John Ng (wine and spirits director of Tasting Kitchen and The World’s 50 Best Bars Academy Chair), Paul Hsu (beverage director of Fannou Group).
This year also sees the launch of MentorSIP, a new mentorship initiative hosted by leaders shaping modern hospitality and based around three key pillars of hospitality – Creativity, Hosting and Leadership. Names taking part include Juliette Larrou (co- founder of Schmuck, New York), Keith Motsi (head bartender & beverage operations at Virtu Four Seasons Tokyo), Jean Trinh (founder of Alquimico in Cartegena) and Danil Nevsky (AKA @cocktailman, currently named 5th most influential bartender by Bar World 100). Successful applicants will be granted access to SIP’s ongoing programme of events, as well as exclusive live events and one-to- one mentorship opportunities.
To apply to be a part of the SIP Supernova programme in Hong Kong & Macau, head to the SIP website and fill out the application form. Applications close on January 6, 2026 so be sure to hurry!
Also see: Let’s get merry! Mulled wine recipes
