It has now been about 20 days since the heat of the Barista Championship Auckland Regionals. With time to relax and gain my concentration and reassess my passion for the entire coffee world, I am once again looking for ways to improve my ability.
James Hoffman’s regular posts (www.jimseven.com) are always an inspiration to push further development, using this, a few of the judges comments on improvement and working the “daily grind” I slowly build a greater appreciation of this vastly common consumable.
It seems to me that little old NZ, although we all love our espresso based coffee fixes, are dawdling along in the same old, same old. It is time that we focus on differentiating ourselves once more, we have such a vast percentage to population of coffee consumers that it is demanded of us to be on the forefront of new initiatives and ideas within this industry. Instead of drinking “Lattes” and “Large Double Flat Whites”, shouldn’t we instead be coming up with new methods and defining this very culture.
It may sound obsessive, but those in the industry and with a passion for the culture should agree that coffee in it’s entirety offers so much more than the average consumer consciously contemplates.
There are a few things that I am working on to subtly change how we experience our regular delight, but until they are realised I challenge fellow baristas, roasters, cafe owners and consumers to bring a unique experience to your cup.
I’m sure this competition has done well to open my mind further, lets bring on more industry events. barista jams and the likes.
Until next time,
H
15twentyfive 
