#33: BARISTA CHAMPION OF HUNGARY ”ATTILA MOLNAR
Attila is a familiar face to those who were in Copenhagen fr the 2008 World Barista Championship. His performance there was very good, but he outdid himself this year, in my opinion, with a complex and creative pumpkin based signature drink. Before we get to that, however, take into consideration the fact that Attila decided to use a single origin espresso for his presentation ”a Beloya from Yirgacheffe. His passion and love for this coffee really came through in his presentation, too. He toasted freshly slized pumpkin in a pan, and cooked grated pumpkin in butter, water and pure, organic maple syrup. He also used fresh chilled blueberries and cream in the drink, and served it in these adorable little bowls. Great job, Attila.
#34: BARISTA CHAMPION OF SPAIN ”FRANCISCO JAVIER GARCIA FUNEZ
Spanish Barista Champion Francisco Javier Garcia Funez mde the bold choice to use a Papau New Guinea for his single origin espresso. We love it when competitors take risks like that! And obviously, he knws what he is doing with coffee. He said his cappuccinos would have toasty flavors and also the distinctness of chocolate milk. For his signature drinks, Francisco Javier combines cacao with coconut milk, and created a ginger reduction in a vac pot. It was a visul pleasure to behold. Great job, Francisco Javier!