Get ready to battle for the best espresso at the National Barista Championship to be conducted by Coffee Board in January 2014. K Basavaraj, head of quality control division and the convener of the championship said, "Till last year, the championship used to be conducted by the Speciality Coffee Association of India (SCAI). The Coffee Board has now taken over from this year because we have the expertise, and the championship can be organised better."
The championship is organised to identify people with the best barista skills. "We invite individuals who are working at various cafe chains to participate in this competition. Even house wives or people who know the art can participate. These people can get an entry into the competition if they know the espresso method of brewing," explained Basavaraj.
According to him, today there are many youngsters who are taking interest in the job of a brewmaster and many have become professionals in coffee making. "This competition will, in a way, give them recognition. They can also be placed in top cafes. Many previous barista champions are now working in Dubai and such other places. The 2014 championship will be conducted as per the rules and regulations of World Barista Championship 2013. This competition coincides with the India International Coffee Festival, which will probably be held on January 21st and 22nd 2014. A couple of international jury members will select the finalist. This will also give the winner a good international platform," he said and further added, "We have a another competition named Latte Hot Championship where the best design on the coffee will win the prize."
Whether this national level championship will lead the participants to World Barista Championship? "We are yet to discuss about it, which will be done after this championship," he said.
To participate
Go to www.indiacoffee.org for the application form. If interested, submit your entries before January 3, 2014 to participate in the qualifying round which is to be held on January 16, 17 and 18. Registration cost: `500.