The best bartender in Ireland has been revealed

He'll now represent his country on the world stage...

Congratulations go out to Carl D'Alton who has landed the prestigious title of World Class Irish Bartender of the Year 2018. Representing Cork's Cask cocktail bar, D'Alton was officially crowned the country's top drinks wizard at the Irish final on Sunday at the Taste of Dublin festival, having suitably impressed the panel of experts. Said panel was made up of industry heavyweights, including the current recognised world champion in this field Kaitlyn Stewart and a 'Global Cocktailian', which is apparently a legitimate thing. The big win marks two in a row for Cask, as D'Alton takes the title from his colleague and mentor Andy Ferreira, who won in 2017. D'Alton now goes on to represent Ireland in the World Class Global Final 2018, which takes place in Berlin this October. "I'm lost for words," said D'Alton as the dust settled. "For me, this is literally the best moment of my career. I just want to bring the spirit of Irish hospitality and Irish ingredients to the global stage. "I have the chance to bring our bartending culture and Cask's ethos to life. And Cork, too! I'm going to really go for it. It's such an honour. Bring on Berlin!"