Global Margarita Competition "MARGARITA CHALLENGE 2026 JAPAN" Kicks Off in Japan for the First Time! Entries Open: April 1 (Wed) - May 31 (Sun)

Remy Cointreau Japan K.K. (Minato-ku, Tokyo / General Manager Xavier Tarro), which develops the premium orange liqueur "Cointreau," announces the hosting of the cocktail competition "MARGARITA CHALLENGE 2026 JAPAN."

Founded in Angers, France in 1849, Cointreau, a French premium orange liqueur, operates under the concept of "SHAKE IT UP." It aims to create bold and exciting newness not only by shaking cocktails but also by shaking up everyday life. Since its inception, it has maintained its traditional manufacturing method while pursuing creativity and playfulness, making it a unique and beloved presence worldwide.

This competition was born as an homage to the masterpiece cocktail, the "Original Margarita." It is known as a prestigious competition that has produced many star bartenders who have been listed in "World's 50 Best Bars." The theme of this Japan competition is "SHAKE IT UP." It calls for innovative Margaritas that incorporate free ideas unbound by existing frameworks and new techniques and ingredients. Applications and presentations will be conducted in English, requiring comprehensive skills applicable on the international stage.

**Highlights of "MARGARITA CHALLENGE 2026 JAPAN"**

**"10 Secret Ingredients" Guided by an Online Shaker**

After entry, by shaking the "online shaker" on the special website, one "destiny ingredient" will be determined from 10 candidates. Participants will then develop an original Margarita utilizing that ingredient.

**Japan Representative Invited to Global Final in France**

The bartender who wins the Japan Final, to be held in Tokyo in early August 2026, will be invited as the Japan representative to the Global Final, to be held in Angers, France, in early November 2026.

**[Event Outline]**

**Name:** MARGARITA CHALLENGE 2026 JAPAN

**Eligibility:**

* Bartenders working at bars, hotels, restaurants, etc., or equivalent. * Must be 20 years or older as of April 1, 2026, and reside in Japan. * Must not be engaged in ambassador duties for specific liquor brands at the time of application. * Must be able to develop and publicly disclose an original cocktail recipe in accordance with competition rules. * Must be able to participate in the Japan Final, scheduled to be held in Tokyo around early August 2026. * Must be able to participate in the Global Final, scheduled to be held in France around early November 2026.

**First Round (Document Screening):**

**Theme: "SHAKE IT UP"**

* Must use 25ml or more of Cointreau. * After registering on the dedicated webpage, one of 10 secret ingredients will be determined by shaking the online shaker.