The London Spirits Competition brings together some of the most respected bartenders, buyers, educators, consultants, and spirits professionals from across the industry. Among them is Harp Mann, award-winning mixologist, founder of @Mix.Mann, and a leading voice in modern cocktail culture.

Known for his work with global spirits brands, hospitality groups, and international hotels, Harp combines hands-on industry experience with a deep understanding of evolving consumer preferences. Through his consultancy work, content creation, masterclasses, and judging experience, he helps shape conversations around premium spirits, cocktail innovation, and beverage trends.

We caught up with Harp to learn more about his journey into the spirits industry, the categories he believes deserve more attention, and what he looks for when judging entries at the London Spirits Competition.

Tell us about yourself and your role in the drinks industry.

I am the founder of @Mix.Mann, one of the UK's largest cocktail-focused social media platforms, and I work as a mixology consultant for global brands, bars, hotels, and hospitality businesses. My work covers recipe development, beverage strategy, content creation, events, masterclasses, judging, and mentoring.

Over the years, I've been fortunate to work with numerous brands across the spirits, hospitality, and consumer sectors. A number of my cocktail creations have been featured in international publications, and I remain passionate about helping people discover and enjoy great drinks.

Who or what inspired your journey into spirits?

I grew up with a home bar built by my father, who amassed a fantastic collection of spirits over the years. We had exotic bottles such as Pisco, Mezcal, and a wide range of liqueurs long before many people in the UK were familiar with them.

I've always been fascinated by local drinks cultures whenever I travel and have a constant desire to learn more about spirits from around the world. That curiosity eventually turned into a career.

What excites you most about the spirits industry today?

The growing interest in premium spirits is incredibly exciting. Consumers are becoming more knowledgeable and more discerning about what they drink.

I think it's encouraging that people are asking more questions about transparency, production methods, and provenance. Knowing what we drink is becoming just as important as knowing what we eat, and that's helping elevate standards across the industry.

Is there a spirits category you think deserves more recognition?

There are several. Pisco, Calvados, and Baijiu all deserve greater attention, but if I had to pick one category, I would say authentic, unadulterated rum.

There are some exceptional rum producers creating world-class products, yet many bars still don't offer the depth and variety that consumers deserve. I'd love to see more appreciation for premium rum and the diversity the category offers.

Do you have a favourite spirits brand?

Foursquare Distillery.

They have built a reputation for quality, authenticity, and transparency, and continue to produce some outstanding spirits.

Where would we find you enjoying a drink in the UK?

That depends on what I'm looking for.

If I want to enjoy rum, Trailer Happiness is always a favourite. If I'm in the mood for expertly executed classic cocktails, The Connaught is hard to beat.

There are so many excellent venues throughout the UK though, including Disrepute, Archive & Myth, and many others.

Where do you shop for spirits?

The Whisky Exchange remains my preferred spirits retailer. The range, expertise, and depth of selection make it an exceptional destination for anyone interested in exploring premium spirits.

As a judge, what do you look for when evaluating spirits?

Quality is obviously essential, but I also look for authenticity, character, and a clear sense of identity.

The products that stand out are usually those that combine exceptional liquid quality with a compelling story and a genuine reason for existing. Great spirits should be memorable and distinctive while remaining true to their origins.

What makes the London Spirits Competition different?

What I appreciate about the London Spirits Competition is that products are not judged solely on taste.

The competition also considers value and packaging, which are critical factors in how products perform in the real world. It reflects how bartenders, buyers, retailers, and consumers actually make purchasing decisions.

The competition brings together international distillers and respected industry professionals, creating a platform that offers both credibility and commercial relevance.

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Why should distilleries enter the London Spirits Competition?

The competition provides producers with an opportunity to gain recognition from industry professionals who actively work with spirits every day.

Winning an award can help build credibility, increase visibility, and support conversations with buyers and distributors. It is also an opportunity to benchmark your product against competitors from around the world.

What advice would you give distilleries entering the competition?

Don't overthink it.

Enter the spirit you're most proud of and the one that genuinely represents who you are as a distillery.

The products that leave a lasting impression are those that combine outstanding quality with authenticity and a clear point of difference. Ask yourself: what makes your product different while maintaining exceptional quality?

If you can answer that question confidently, you're already on the right path.

Quick Fire Round

Favourite UK Bar: Trailer Happiness and The Connaught

Favourite Spirits Retailer: The Whisky Exchange

Go-To Spirits Brand: Foursquare Distillery

Most Underrated Category: Authentic Rum

Trend To Watch: Premiumisation and consumer demand for transparency

One Word To Describe The Spirits Industry: Evolving

As a London Spirits Competition judge, Harp Mann brings a valuable combination of industry expertise, consumer understanding, and commercial insight. His perspective reflects exactly what the competition seeks to reward: spirits that not only deliver exceptional quality but also have the ability to succeed in today's increasingly competitive global marketplace.

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