Giorgio Bargiani, the Italian-born Assistant Director of Mixology at the Connaught Bar in London, has been named the winner of the Altos Bartenders' Bartender Award 2026 for the inaugural edition of Europe's 50 Best Bars. The accolade is voted for by the bartenders on this year's list, who put forward the name of a peer who they believe pushes the limits of what it means to be a great bartender.

Announced on June 16, 2026, the honor is the second of two special awards revealed ahead of the live awards ceremony, in Amsterdam at the end of the month (June 30). It recognizes a personality who made a significant impact in the global bar sector over the voting period, alongside their commitment to the European community.

Born in Pisa, Italy, Bargiani grew up around his family's restaurant business before gaining early experience in local bars and nightclubs. He later progressed through high-end hotels such as the Splendido in Portofino and Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons in Oxford. In 2014, he joined the Connaught Bar as a bar-back, where he was mentored by Agostino Perrone, Director of Mixology. He rose rapidly through the ranks, becoming Head Mixologist in 2019 and later Assistant Director of Mixology.

At the Connaught Bar, which currently ranks No.6 in the 2025 list of The World's 50 Best Bars, Bargiani is closely associated with the venue's world-famous Martini service and its ritualistic, personalized guest experience. His approach combines classical technique with precision and showmanship, and his leadership extends to mentoring the team and shaping cocktail creations and creative projects.

"I am deeply honoured and humbled by this accolade. It makes me feel more connected than ever to this wonderful bar community and I could not be more grateful to all my friends and colleagues for their continuous support along the way," said Bargiani.