Johnnie Walker Ghana is thrilled to congratulate Survaiva Benjamin Donkor, a Senior Bartender at Tribeca Restaurant in Accra, on his victory in the Black Label Global Bartender Challenge for the Africa Region.

Survaiva's exemplary skill and creativity earned him the title of champion, and he will represent his country in Scotland, the birthplace of Johnnie Walker, during the Burns Night weekend in January 2025

Survaiva Benjamin Donkor’s winning creation, “The Black Secret,” is an exquisite blend of Johnnie Walker Black Label with fresh lemon juice, activated charcoal syrup, crème de cassis, coconut liqueur, and fresh pineapple juice. This cocktail not only showcases his remarkable mixology skills, but also embodies his ingenuity and tenacity in crafting.

The Black Label Global Bartender Challenge aims to showcase the outstanding qualities of Johnnie Walker Black Label while honouring bartenders who passionately support this award-winning Scotch Whisky. Survaiva’s triumph in the Africa region underscores his dedication and Ghana’s vibrant cocktail culture.

Marketing Manager for Spirits and Ready to Drink (RTDs) at Guinness Ghana, Yaa Amoah, emphasised the significance of Survaiva’s achievement, stating, "Winning the challenge for the Africa region is truly a cause for celebration. The Johnnie Walker Black Label Bartender Challenge provides a platform for bartenders to showcase their craft through signature cocktails. Survaiva, the sole African among the global winners, exemplifies the spirit of 'Keep Walking' and has embarked on a life-changing journey."

Head of Reserves and Key Accounts at Guinness Ghana, Emmanuel Adu-Poku, highlighted the significant role that bartenders and waiting staff play as "silent ambassadors" of their establishments during the event.

He noted that in recognition of their role, Guinness Ghana has committed to training and empowering them, establishing platforms to elevate their visibility on the international stage.

“While Diageo Bar Academy sought to unlock beyond building the capability of bar tenders and waiting staff, it also presents them with the opportunity to make them market ready for whichever market they find themselves in”.

Johnnie Walker Black Label, a meticulously crafted Scotch Whisky with a rich heritage dating back over a century, remains a standard-bearer in the world of Scotch. Its blend of the finest whiskies from Scotland’s Four Corners, each bringing its own unique aromas and flavours, has made it a global favorite with its iconic, rich taste.

Johnnie Walker Black Label Global Bartender Challenge calls mixologists worldwide

Bartenders worldwide are invited to showcase their creativity by sharing an Instagram reel featuring their unique Johnnie Walker Black Label cocktail, along with an explanation of why this iconic blended Scotch whisky enhances their creation.

Prizes Await

Winners will indulge in an exclusive three-night immersive experience in Scotland, the historic home of Johnnie Walker. The prize package includes a visit to the Diageo Archive, an insider's tour of a distillery, and a personalised tasting session with Dr Emma Walker, Johnnie Walker's Master Blender. Participants will also enjoy a range of activities at Johnnie Walker Princes Street, the brand's flagship location in Edinburgh.

This Year’s Entrants

Judged by Tim Philips-Johansson, Johnnie Walker Global Brand Ambassador, and Jan Šebek, winner of the Johnnie Walker challenge at Diageo World Class 2023, entries underwent rigorous evaluation during a tasting session in Amsterdam. The judges sought cocktails that showcased Johnnie Walker Black Label in innovative and balanced ways.

Global Participation

Entries poured in from over forty countries, resulting in the selection of only eight winners worldwide. Among the distinguished winners is Survaiva Benjamin Donkor from Ghana. Survaiva, a Senior Bartender at Tribeca Restaurant and newly appointed Diageo Bar Academy Trainer, impressed judges with his outstanding mixology prowess.

The Johnnie Walker Black Label Global Bartender Challenge continues to celebrate the artistry and excellence of cocktail making, underscoring Johnnie Walker's enduring reputation as a trailblazer in the Scotch whisky industry.