JNPR COCKTAIL COMPETITION: semi-finals
Review of the Greece Semi-Final of the JNPR Cocktail Competition 2026.
In Athens, 7 bartenders gathered to champion a shared vision: to treat non-alcoholic drinks with high standards, precision, and intention.
This edition, under the theme of KATA, demanded rigor and mastery. Two challenges to separate the candidates: ESSENCE, focusing on the interpretation of Japan, and CODE, centered on pure technique.
The standard?
Particularly high, making every decision difficult. More than just a competition, this event is an opportunity to raise the standards of non-alcoholic beverages.
The prize?
Invitation to Tokyo International BarShow 2027.
Our 7 Greek semi-finalists:
Congratulations to the winners Christos Kamperis and Marios Gore!
Andreas Negkas
El Bar, Amaliáda
Inspired by spicy and aromatic profiles, he develops an expressive and contemporary mixology.
→ Spiced Hibiscus Negroni: an intense revisited Negroni, blending hibiscus, pink peppercorn, and smoky notes in an elegant structure.
Marios Gore
Finalist
Onuki Costa Navarino, Athens
Through his creations, he explores the delicacy of Japanese flavors and minimalist balances.
→ KAKUREBI: a deep, umami cocktail, combining marinated shiitake, sakura-smoked salt, and refined bitterness.
Kritonas Xanthopoulos
Bar Manager CHE, Piraeus
Passionate about botanical compositions, he creates precise and decidedly aromatic cocktails.
→ Botanical Tea: an herbaceous and elegant creation featuring geranium, sage, and tarragon, enhanced by a touch of caramelized green apple.
Petros Arnakis
Obscura, Athens
A bartender with a modern approach, he enjoys playing with contrasts between freshness, acidity, and texture.
→ Shoshin Highball: a vibrant highball featuring umeboshi and cherry soda, both salty, fruity, and ultra-refreshing.
Vaios Mousitsas
Aquila, Athens
Influenced by smoky flavors and complex profiles, he offers bold and structured mixology.
→ Akai Smoke: an intense creation combining beetroot, Lapsang Souchong smoked tea, and vegetal notes of purple shiso.
Christos Kamperis
Finalist
Thessaloniki
Driven by a fresh and accessible approach, he crafts cocktails around balance and aromatic tension.
→ Essence: an energetic and refreshing long drink combining matcha, ginger, and yuzu in a vibrant and airy structure.
Polivios Tracoshis
Nicosia
Curious about gourmet pairings, he develops generous cocktails with unexpected aromatic profiles.
→ Harmony: a comforting creation where blackcurrant, hazelnut, chocolate, and chili intertwine in a surprising balance.
