Auckland Bartender PJ Renaud Named Among World’s Top 10 For Pavlova-Inspired Cocktail

Auckland bartender PJ Renaud has been named among the Top 10 finalists in the 2026 Jameson Black Barrel Bartender Series, following 432 entries from 60 countries.

The annual competition challenges bartenders to create an original Jameson Black Barrel cocktail inspired by their local culture and community. Representing Auckland cocktail kitchen Panacea, Renaud impressed the judges with The Pavlovaboy—a distinctly Kiwi take on the classic summer dessert.

The cocktail pairs Jameson Black Barrel with mānuka vermouth, fresh Hawke’s Bay nectarines and L&P, finished with a charred pavlova foam. The locally led ingredients were chosen to complement the whiskey’s notes of toasted oak, caramel and vanilla spice.

Renaud will now travel to Ireland to compete against nine international finalists at the Jameson HOSTS Global Summit at Midleton Distillery in September. Cocktails will be served in a blind tasting before two panels of industry judges and mentors, with the three highest-scoring bartenders crowned Global Champions.

Each winner will receive €5,000 and access to an international mentorship program led by drinks-industry experts—so it's safe to say we are betting on him to bring home the crown.

Image credit: Panacea Bar | Instagram