After several months of competition, and one or two obstacles, the moment finally arrived and we, at last, held our 23.5 Degrees Starbucks Barista Championship final. And what an event it was!
Just when I thought our nine area champions couldn't perform any better, they all cranked it up one more notch and really shone!
As before, they had to demonstrate their knowledge of our range of wholebean coffees, geographical and economic facts, and our ethical sourcing guidelines through a hosted coffee tasting.
They then had to prove their coaching ability in a latte art lesson followed by a showcase set of flat whites. Pattern, contrast, symmetry and microfoam quality were all tested.
Lastly, we asked our area champions to demonstrate their innovative side by creating a guest beverage that would work in our stores as a limited time offer.
They were all absolutely amazing and I couldn't be more proud of them and to have been part of this year's competition.
But there can be only 1 winner and that was Joseph Wood from our Bradford Leeds Road store who wins a trip to Milan and also a spot in the Starbucks UK national final in September. Congratulations Joe and best of luck at the nationals!