Today’s professional bartenders are far more than service staff—they are expert mixologists whose knowledge, technique, and creativity are recognized on an international scale. The growing bartender community in Lithuania and the Baltic region is striving for the highest level of professionalism, successfully competing in prestigious global championships. Behind these achievements lies a journey that began with a group of enthusiasts eager to transform the region’s beverage culture.

A Tradition of Growth

Over the past decades, Lithuania’s bar scene has undergone a remarkable transformation. Where bars once offered only a limited selection of drinks, today’s consumers seek variety, innovation, and unique experiences. Modern bartenders have become trendsetters—crafting cocktails, experimenting with flavors, and combining unexpected ingredients to attract customers looking for something extraordinary. These evolving expectations also help bars differentiate themselves in an increasingly competitive market.

“This transformation is reflected in the talented professionals joining our team—individuals with valuable hands-on experience who easily connect with clients, colleagues, and like-minded peers. Their expertise and deep understanding of the bar industry are invaluable. It is their passion and enthusiasm, combined with the supportive environment fostered by MV GROUP Distribution, that inspired us to take mixology to the next level—launching championships that not only showcase talent but also strengthen the entire bartender community,” shares Aurinta Savickaitė, Marketing Director at MV GROUP Distribution.

According to Savickaitė, mixology championships are also highly valued by the company’s suppliers and partners—renowned global beverage producers—who see these events as an engaging way to introduce their products to a professional audience, highlighting their uniqueness and rich heritage.

A Unique Event Atmosphere

MV GROUP Distribution LT (formerly Mineraliniai Vandenys) has been organizing mixology championships for years. Early competitions, such as VERSUS 2018 by Amaro di ANGOSTURA, introduced a completely new concept—cocktails were crafted to live DJ sets, with participants cheered on by friends and family. The vibrant and informal atmosphere turned the championship into a true celebration of mixology.

“Our goal was to attract the younger generation of mixologists—those who may not yet have extensive experience but are curious, dynamic, and full of fresh ideas. Competitions should be fun and inspiring for them, and we built our events with that in mind. It proved to be the right approach,” notes Savickaitė.

Each year, MV GROUP Distribution LT organizes multiple championships, some dedicated to global brands, where participants craft cocktails based on specific spirits, while others, such as the Espresso Martini Championship, feature a mix of international and Lithuanian products.

Ambassadors as Industry Icons

A dedicated MV GROUP Distribution team plays a key role in organizing these events, with mixology ambassadors serving as the bridge between the industry and bartenders. These specialists not only build relationships but often become the face of the competitions.

One such ambassador is Rapolas Vareika, MV GROUP Distribution LT’s mixologist and an official Guinness World Record holder for flair bartending. His record-breaking achievement? Striking a glass bottle with his elbow 82 times in a row without stopping.

“Our ambassadors have all walked the path of a bartender and are widely recognized for their achievements. Their authority in the championships is unquestioned—they are well-known within the bartender community, have earned respect, and serve as role models for younger colleagues,” says Savickaitė.

Rising to the Global Stage

To succeed in mixology championships, creativity and showmanship are essential—but deep knowledge is the foundation of a great cocktail.

Mixologists must understand different beverages, their production processes, and flavor profiles, mastering how various ingredient combinations enhance a cocktail. Savickaitė advises aspiring competitors to experiment relentlessly—refining their creations until they achieve the perfect balance. And once the cocktail is perfected? A creative name and compelling presentation are just as crucial to success.

These efforts can open doors to international opportunities. Winners of MV GROUP Distribution LT’s championships frequently advance to global competitions, representing Lithuania on the world stage.

For instance, Lukas Palubinskas, a bartender from Vilnius, became the Graham’s Blend Series World Champion by following this exact path.

Most recently, in February, Jonas Jasinevičius, bartender at Komplimentai in Vilnius, triumphed in the Angostura Global Cocktail Challenge North European finals, surpassing competitors from Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Denmark, Finland, Sweden, and Norway. His victory secured him a place in the world finals in Trinidad and Tobago.

“Championships give mixologists the opportunity to break free from routine. For us, they are a chance to bring the bartender community together and inspire them to grow—advancing the entire beverage culture. Competitions fuel ambition, motivating participants to learn more, prepare better, and come back stronger,” Savickaitė affirms.

A strong community spirit and international success stories align with MV GROUP Distribution’s leadership-driven commitment to fostering mixology culture. Savickaitė emphasizes that organizing championships is an integral part of the company’s mission – nurturing young talent and upholding the highest standards of beverage culture.