At Maybe Sammy here in Sydney, I talked with John Galiatsatos (Group Advocacy Manager, Suntory Oceania), Valentine Maguire (Design Manager, Club Suntory),

Rhi Lucas (Maker’s Mark Diplomat, Australia & New Zealand), Alice Newport (James B. Beam Distilling Co. Ambassador, Australia & New Zealand), Ella Jones (Brand Activation Specialist, NSW/ACT), and Sophie Smallwood (Event Manager, Club Suntory).

In the chat, they get into a little of the history of Club Suntory and talk about its significance over the years, the program’s focus on inclusivity and talking to bartenders outside the big metro areas to address what John says is an insularity creeping into the bartending world.

We also get an idea of what to expect when they bring Suntory Cup back, too. The cocktail competition has a rich history and big emphasis on fun, something that can be forgotten every now and then in competition bartending space. 

Learn more at club.suntory.com or on Instagram @clubsuntoryoceania.