A BELFAST barman has been named World Class Irish Bartender of the Year 2016.
Andrew Dickey, who works at The Merchant Hotel, was awarded the title in a ceremony at The King's Inn in Dublin city centre.
The Newtownabbey man will now go on to represent Ireland in the World Class Global Final 2016, which takes place in Miami in September.
Masterchef's John Torode joined the judging panel alongside industry experts Max La Rocca, European World Class Ambassador, Anna Walsh, World Class Ireland Winner 2015 and Ewan Gunn, The global BA for Haig Club.
The six finalists completed complex challenges designed to test them on all aspects of bartending including brand knowledge, precision, sensory, hosting and creativity.
Chef John Torode said it was "amazing to witness the level of passion, creativity and outstanding skill".
"I was particularly impressed by their ability to combine and balance unique flavour profiles – a cocktail is a dish in itself," he said.
"These bartenders really are world class. Andrew Dickey is a very deserving winner and I wish him the very best of luck in the Global Final in Miami in September."
