FAQ: Cointreau Margarita Challenge

Why should I take part?

Since its creation, 175 years ago, Cointreau has become a mainstay of the world’s best bars and an indispensable ingredient in over 500 iconic drinks, including the Original Margarita invented in 1948. The Cointreau Margarita Challenge is an incredible opportunity for bartenders from all walks of life to contribute their chapter to the story of this legendary liqueur—and take their own bartending careers to the next level in the process.

How is the 2026 competition different from previous years?

The competition is open to all professional bartenders anywhere in the world. You must be over 21 and currently employed. 

Here is the link to register and participate to the competition:  https://www.cointreau.com/int/en/margarita-challenge/inscription

Who is on the jury?

This year, the participants advancing to the final in France will be evaluated by a prestigious panel comprised of internationally renowned leading bartenders. We'll reveal the name of the juries by end of April, stay tuned!

How will the final work?

Once the submission period has ended, 12 regional finalists will be chosen and flown to France for three days of immersive visits and mixology challenges, culminating in a final hosted at Cointreau’s historic mansion in Angers, where the story began. There, after 3 rounds of challenges the best three participants will be selected, and the first-place winner crowned.

What’s the grand prize?

The grand prize winner will walk away with an additional trip for two to France and a sponsor budget of five thousand euros which will allow them to take off on a tour to promote their own creative take on the Original Margarita in the best cocktails bars selected by Cointreau.

Can I submit two drinks?

Only one recipe submission will be accepted per participant: We want only your absolute best.

Can I change my assigned ingredient ?

No, you must work with your assigned ingredient. You can't try your luck one more time. The odds are now in your flavors and your fate in is in your hands.

Can two or more bartenders from the same bar take part in the competition?

Yes! As long as each participant only submits one drink.

Can I use another liqueur in addition to Cointreau?

Yes, just as long as it’s not a triple sec or another orange liqueur.

Do I need to have my drink photographed by a professional?

While it’s true that the jury will take each drink’s presentation into account, a professionally-shot photograph is by no means required. We expect you to get creative and that your drink, staging & picture express the theme at its best.

Can I submit my recipe in a language other than English?

The Cointreau Margarita Challenge is an international competition that brings together participants from all around the world. As a result, we ask that all recipes be submitted (and if selected, presented to the jury) in English.

What are the selection criteria?

Skills (40%): Entries will be judges on how skillfully participants utilize their secret ingredient to craft their Margarita.

Respect of the theme (40%): This year’s Cointreau’s Margarita Challenge celebrates innovation and creativity through a little mystery. Participating bartenders will have to create a recipe using their secret ingredient.

Storytelling (10%): Behind every great Margarita is an evocative story. Participating bartenders should submit compelling narratives that complement their concoctions, offering insight into the inspiration behind each.

Presentation (10%): Every cocktail tasting experience starts with the eye. Participating bartenders should craft visually striking drinks and ensure their submitted photographs accurately represent the uniqueness and personality of their creation.

Will I receive feedback on my submission?

Due to the volume of entries expected, the jury will not be able to provide feedback to each individual participant. Only finalists will have the opportunity to discuss their creations with the judges.

We don’t have Cointreau in our bar: Will this be counted against me?

No, you can still participate regardless. That said, given how many iconic cocktails include Cointreau, what are you doing without it?

Do I have to salt the rim?

Salt is a mandatory ingredient, but you’re free to use it any way you like.

Can I use any glassware?

Of course! Use whatever glass feels most appropriate for your recipe and that you consider it fits best with the given theme.

Can our bar attend as a team?

Sounds fun—but no! The competition is about highlighting individual talent and creativity: It’s one drink per bartender, and one bartender per drink.

Do I need to post on social media?

If you are proud of your work, feel free to post on social media and don't forget to tag us @cointreau #Margaritachallenge2026. Although This will not give you any additional points. The Margarita Challenge is a bartenders competition not a like competition, and we intend to keep it that way.

Can I use Cointreau Noir?

No. As the competition is an ode to classic cocktails, you must use Cointreau l’Unique—the one, the only, the icon.

Is my country open to the Challenge?