Those of you who don’t work in a bar, sell booze, or follow the trade will probably not know what Tales is.

Nor will you know why each year in July around 20,000 people head to New Orleans for it. It’s basically the Oscars/Brits/World Cup final of the cocktail world, the biggest event of the year for those in the know.

We thought we’d break it down for you, so here is this year’s list of winners from the Tales of the Cocktail along with a little BarChick breakdown:

International Winners

World’s Best Bar - Artesian, London

We say – standard! These guys smash it every year. A-class drinks, perfect service and some serious garnishes. A cocktail haven just off Oxford Circus, read the full review here.

Best International Cocktail Bar - 28 Hong Kong Street, Singapore

Possibly the first time a bar outside of America and Europe has won. Hashtag major. Ran by Zdenek Kastanek, we’ve known him from way back when he headed Quo Vadis and always knew he was going places – nice one brother. Read all about the bar on our Singapore bar guide.

International Bartender of the Year - Simone Caporale - Artesian, London

You’ve gotta love Simone, he may look slick but he sure loosens up at a party (and then some). He’s even manned the bar one of BarChick’s events – we only settle for the best! Go find him and give him a high five from BarChick.

World’s Best Drinks Selection - Dead Rabbit, New York

The Irish boys have done it again. Sean Muldoon and Jack McGarry took NYC’s Financial District and gave it some serious Irish attitude. There are two bars to choose from, we like it upstairs at The Bar, and boy do they like whisky.

Best International Restaurant Bar - Bon Vivant, Edinburgh

We always make sure we get our Bon Vivant fix when we’re in town. Awesome small plates of food and a seriously hot drinks menu. The owner Stu is easy on the eye too. Win win.

Best International Hotel Bar - Artesian, London

Like Titanic in 97', these kids clean up when it comes to the awards. Here here.

Best International Bar Team - Artesian, London

You get the gist. London is where it’s at.

Best New International Cocktail Bar - White Lyan, London

These guys broke the rules with their “no ice” policy and original styles, and have been killing it ever since opening less than a year ago. With their pre made cocktails and focus on service they have switched the usual bar experience on its head. We think it’s ‘cos of the pole in the club downstairs, but the drinks might help.

American Awards

Best American Cocktail Bar - Dead Rabbit, New York

If you’re in New York City, jump in a cab and go find Sean and Jack at the bar. Two thumbs up boys.

Best American Restaurant Bar - NoMad, New York

It’s no surprise this place gets packed. Like the best things in life it’s very sexy, high class and expensive. Take the corporate card.

Best American Hotel Bar - Clyde Common, Portland

This hipster city has it all going on, but a trip to Portland isn’t complete without a cocktail in here, better that, get a room.

For more winners, check out the Tales website.