Category Archives: Barista Championship (wef. July 28th, 2022)

From Shade-Grown to Sun-Dried: India’s Unique Coffee Practices

Barista Championship (wef. July 28th, 2022), Coffee News

From Shade-Grown to Sun-Dried: India’s Unique Coffee Practices. (Photo: By Arrangement)

With India’s coffee exports on the rise, D.M. Purnesh, a 4th-generation coffee planter and SCAI President, discusses the industry’s transformation, challenges, and opportunities. He also previews the Indian International Coffee Festival (IICF) 2024.

As a 4th-generation coffee planter from Chikmagalur, what do you believe are the key factors contributing to India’s growing significance in the global coffee industry, and how will IICF 2024 showcase this growth?

As a fourth-generation coffee grower from Chikmagalur, I’ve seen India’s coffee sector transform. Early on, the only way to sell coffee was through the Coffee Board, which meant surrendering the entire crop and losing its unique identity. That changed in the 1990s when Indian coffee began gaining global recognition for its quality. Today, our beans are acknowledged for their high standards, commanding premiums over those from other nations. The 2023 World Coffee Conference in Bengaluru, attended by over 20,000 visitors from 80 countries, underscored this recognition. IICF 2024 aims to build on this success by connecting India’s coffee industry with the global community. As President of the Specialty Coffee Association of India (SCAI), we are committed to hosting IICF for the next decade.

With your extensive experience in coffee cultivation and export, what innovations or trends do you see shaping the future of Indian coffee, and how will these be highlighted at IICF 2024?

Major challenges like climate change and rising labor costs are pushing Indian coffee growers to innovate. While mechanisation can help reduce labor needs, India’s terrain presents difficulties in implementing these systems on a large scale. The IICF plays an important role in bridging this gap by enabling producers to connect directly with the market, giving roasters and traders (B2B) a firsthand look at the quality of Indian coffee. IICF also introduces premium Indian coffee to a broader audience, encouraging a coffee culture domestically by hosting events across major cities.

As the founder of the Specialty Coffee Association of India (SCAI), what role do you envision SCAI playing in promoting Indian specialty coffee globally, and how will IICF 2024 support this mission?

The Specialty Coffee Association of India (SCAI) is an inclusive organisation representing India’s coffee value chain—from growers to cafes. Over time, SCAI has helped Indian specialty coffee build a respected global presence, commanding premium prices in both domestic and international markets. Our mission at SCAI is to promote specialty coffee and foster partnerships within the coffee community worldwide. The IICF events support these goals, further establishing India as a key player in the global coffee industry.

How does sustainable coffee production and agroforestry feature in your business philosophy, and what initiatives will be showcased at IICF 2024 to promote environmentally conscious coffee practices?

Indian coffee stands out because it’s shade-grown, spring-washed, and sun-dried, thriving in biodiverse areas without disrupting local ecosystems. Sustainability is central to our philosophy, incorporating rainwater harvesting for irrigation and using organic manure from jungle trees. The IICF gives growers a platform to showcase their sustainable methods, while entrepreneurs can present innovations like biofertilisers and eco-friendly equipment. Educational programs at IICF will also underscore the importance of environmentally conscious agricultural practices.

India has made significant strides in coffee exports, with your company being a leading player. What opportunities and challenges do you see for Indian coffee exporters in the global market, and how will IICF 2024 address these?

Indian specialty coffee has successfully established a niche in international markets, often fetching premium prices. This achievement is the result of hard work by SCAI members who have traveled extensively to build Indian coffee’s reputation globally. However, rising production costs and climate challenges require growers to secure even better prices to stay sustainable. IICF 2024 provides a venue for exporters to connect with potential buyers, strengthening India’s market presence and enhancing demand.

As a pioneer in coffee research and development, what new products or processing methods can attendees expect to learn about at IICF 2024, and how will these contribute to the growth of India’s coffee industry?

Indian coffee processing has made significant strides, embracing techniques such as barrel-aging, using in-house yeasts to bring out unique flavours, and incorporating local ingredients like bananas and oranges in fermentation. At our own estate, we’re among the first to apply these methods to Robusta coffee, shifting perceptions about its flavour. India now offers a range of coffee products, including pod machines, frozen espresso capsules, and ready-to-drink varieties. IICF serves as a hub where coffee enthusiasts can explore these innovations and where estates can forge partnerships with manufacturers, broadening the reach of Indian coffee.

Inspired by the wine and alcohol industries, SCAI has introduced national competitions to elevate Indian coffee, such as:

National Barista Championship

National Latte Art Championship

National Brewers Cup Championship

Coffee In Good Spirits Championship

World Filter Coffee Championship

These competitions attract young talent, including home brewers, providing the next generation with opportunities to showcase their skills and raise awareness of Indian coffee. SCAI is committed to creating learning opportunities across the industry, promoting a deep understanding of specialty coffee production and marketing.

source: http://www.deccanchronicle.com / Deccan Chronicle / Home> Lifestyle> Food and Recipes / by Reshmi AR / November 04th, 2024

Five-Day Barista Training Workshop

Barista Championship (wef. July 28th, 2022), Business & Economy, Coffee Board, India (wef. Nov 17, 2021), Coffee News, Coffee, Kodagu (Coorg), Education, Records, All, , ,

The five-day Barista training workshop, organised by the Coffee Quality Division of Coffee Board of India in collaboration with CFTRI, Mysuru, will be held from June 24 to 28 at the BioNEST Incubation Centre at CFTRI premises in city.

Training in brewing coffee, cupping, manual brewing, signature beverage, introduction to green coffee etc., will be conducted.

Those who undergo the training successfully will be provided certificates.

For details and registration, call Mob: 94821-57878 or e-mail: baristatraining.coffeeboard@gmail.com

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> In Briefs / June 04th, 2024

Teja Achar Triumphs At The Second Edition Of National Latte Art 2024 Competition

Barista Championship (wef. July 28th, 2022), Coffee News,

Bengaluru :

Kaapi Machines, India’s first and largest coffee equipment, training, and services company, proudly announces Teja Achar as the winner of the2nd Edition of the ‘NationalLatte Art India 2024’. This prestigious event, following the immense success of the first edition last year, this year Kaapi Machines with the Coffee Board of India, has once again showcased the exceptional talent and passion of India’s finest latte artists.

The championship journey commenced on April29,2024, with preliminaries held in Delhi, Mumbai,and Bangalore.

These events highlighted the immense talent across India, culminating in a grand finale where the finest artists competed for the top honour.

The grand finale, held in Bangalore, was a spectacular display of creativity and skill,culminatinginTeja Achar’s victory. He will now represent India at the World Latte Art Championship in Copenhagen, Denmark, this June.

Abhinav Mathur, CEO & Managing Director of Kaapi Machines, expressed his delightatthesuccessful conclusion of the championship, stating, “We are thrilled to witness the incredible talent and dedication displayed by all the participants. Teja Achar’s victory is a testament to the growing appreciation and skill level of latte art in India. At Kaapi Machines, we are committed to nurturing and promoting this art form, and we look forward to seeing Teja Achar representourcountryonthe global stage in Copenhagen.”

Kaapi Machines remains committed to fostering talent and passion within the coffee community, and this championship is a testament to that dedication. As the country’s leading coffee equipment and training provider, Kaapi Machines continues to supportandinspirecoffeeenthusiastsandprofessionals alike.

source: http://www.indiaeducationdiary.in / India Education Diary / Home> National News / by India Education Diary / May 24th, 2024

Winners Revealed at the 5th World Coffee Conference 2023: Coffee Championships Attracting Enthusiastic Youth Participation

Amazing Feats, Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Barista Championship (wef. July 28th, 2022), Coffee News, Women/Girls (wef. Sept 03rd, 2022), World Opinion

Mumbai / Bengaluru:

The International Coffee Organization, in partnership with the Coffee Board of India, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, the Government of Karnataka, and the coffee industry, announced the National Latte Art, Barista, Filter Coffee, Women’s Star Brewer and Fine Cup Award Championships on the last day of the 5th World Coffee Conference 2023 at Bengaluru Palace.

WCC 2023 hosted competitions and championships during the 4-day event the most coveted of which is the National Barista Championship. The prestigious competition is designed to recognize the most technically proficient and talented baristas in the field. It is dedicated to promoting excellence throughout the entire coffee value chain, fostering skill development, and cultivating a thriving café culture in India. The winner will represent India in The World Barista Championship to be held in South Korea, and a cash prize was also awarded. Mr. Hrishikesh Mohite from Café’ De Meet won the National Barista Championship 2024 at the WCC 2023.

At the Women’s Star Brewer Skills Championship, female baristas and home brewers were offered a platform to proudly display their coffee brewing prowess, demonstrating their skills. Participants were allowed to craft a ‘Signature Beverage’ utilizing home brewing equipment. The Women’s Star Brewer Skills Championship is awarded to Priti Pradhan.

The National Latte Art Championship made its debut in India, bringing an exciting blend of artistic expression and barista skills to the forefront. This unique competition challenges baristas with on-the-spot performances that showcase their creativity and precision. From over 150 contestants, Mr. Mohammad Afsar was awarded as the champion who will now participate in the International Latte Art Championship in Taiwan.

The Great Indian Filter Coffee Championship is a celebration of traditional Indian coffee craftsmanship, designed to promote and nurture the art of brewing the quintessential Filter Coffee. From 27 participants went head-to-head Vani Shree N from Brown Bean Artistry was declared the winner.

1758 contestants participated in the ‘Flavour of India – The Fine Cup Award Cupping Competition’ which was on a mission to award the production of high-quality coffees in India.

-The winner of Best Washed Arabica is awarded to Mrs. Killo Aswini

–Best Arabica Naturals is awarded to M/s. Kruthi Coffee, Kindriguda Tribal Farmers Group

–Best Washed Robusta is awarded to Mr. Jacob Mammen, M/s Badra Estate Balehonnur Estate

–Best Robusta Naturals is awarded to Mr. Jacob Mammen M/s. Badra Balehonnur Estate.

The 4-day international event featured Conferences, Skill Building Workshops, a Growers Conclave, CEOs and global Leaders Forums, Startup Conclave, Competitions, and awards, and an Exhibition showcasing cutting-edge coffee products and services.

source: http://www.apnnews.com / APN News / Home> Youth / October 02nd, 2023

Barista Battle: Top Competitors Converge on Bangalore for National Championship

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Barista Championship (wef. July 28th, 2022), Business & Economy, Coffee Board, India (wef. Nov 17, 2021), Coffee News, Coffee, Kodagu (Coorg), Records, All, , , , , , , , , ,
Tennis player James Blake

Bangalore (Karnataka) :

The National Barista Championship 2023 (The 21st Edition), hosted by the Coffee Board of India, Speciality Coffee Association of India, and United Coffee Association of India, is being organised from February 14th to 19th at Orion mall, Bangalore. With over 60 stalls offering more than 100 different types of coffee, the audience will be experiencing the largest collection of coffee ever under one banner. This year NBC is powered by Kaapi Solutions as the platinum sponsors along with Nescafe and SCAI (speciality coffee association of India) as the Gold sponsors) as the Gold sponsors for the event.

This year we have around 60 Baristas who would be battling it out for the Title of Champion. Making it the biggest tournament in Asia.

NBC is a prestigious annual event in the coffee industry where baristas from various regions of India come together to showcase their brewing skills and compete for the title of the National Barista Champion. All the best cafe brands such as Blue Tokai, Thirdwave, Lavazza along with many other speciality coffee brands all over India will participate in this unique event.

This year’s National Barista Championship is set to be the most competitive yet, as baristas push the boundaries of what is possible with coffee. A very strong committee has been set up where the volunteers under the guidance of Purnesh DM (President of the Speciality coffee association of India), Vikram Khurana (President United coffee association of India) and Srikanth Rao (Vice President United coffee association of India) who shares the same passion for coffee and have worked tirelessly to put this event together.

The event provides a unique opportunity for attendees to network with industry leaders, learn about the latest trends and techniques in coffee preparation, and sample some of the finest coffee blends from around the world.

“We are thrilled to host the National Barista Championship in Bangalore,” said Dr K G Jagadeesha, IAS, Secretary of the Coffee Board. “This city has a rich history and culture of coffee-making, and it’s an honor to bring the best baristas from top cafe brands, and specialty coffee brands from all over India to compete here. Last year’s event, held at Orion Mall in Rajajinagar, was a huge success with over 10,000 visitors, a multitude of coffee, 40+ stalls, and lively music. We look forward to welcoming both the competitors and the public to this exciting event.”

The competition, which will be held over 6 days – 14th to the 19th of Feb. This includes the preliminaries which will happen on the 14th -15th and the 16th post which 18th will be the semi-finals and it concludes on the 19th with the finals. The second day will feature the final round, where the baristas will be judged on their latte art and signature drinks. The winner of this highly regarded competition will then go on to represent India at the World Barista Championship 2023 to held in Athens, Greece.

The National Barista Championship is an annual event that brings together baristas from various regions of India to showcase their brewing skills and compete for the title of National Barista Champion. This coffee festival is a congregation of music, entertainment, a wide array of stalls and a whole lot of coffee and with some great jury to help make it a seamless judging process. NBC 2022 Had Ms Seonhee Yoon from Korea fly down to judge these world class brewers.

This story has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/NewsVoir)

source: http://www.business-standard.com / Business Standard / Home / by ANI Press Release / February 15th, 2023

KAAPI Solutions associates with the Coffee Board, UCAI and SCAI, Sponsors National Barista Championship 2022

Barista Championship (wef. July 28th, 2022), Business & Economy, Coffee Board, India (wef. Nov 17, 2021), Coffee News, Coffee, Kodagu (Coorg), Records, All
KAAPI Solutions associates with the Coffee Board, UCAI and SCAI, Sponsors National Barista Championship 2022
KAAPI Solutions shakes hands with the Coffee Board of India, United Coffee Association of India and Speciality Coffee Association of India to organise National Barista Championship 2022

Mumbai :

KAAPI Solutions, spearheaded by the former NBC winner and jury member, Vikram Khurana, has announced its platinum sponsorship for the celebrated National Barista Championship 2022. The event is organised annually by the Coffee Board of India in association with the Specialty Coffee Association India and the United Coffee Association of India to honour the best baristas within the country. Renowned as a coffee fanatic’s paradise, the competition will take place in Bangalore and see India’s most beloved baristas competing for the title of the best Barista of 2022.

Considered to be one of the most paramount members of the coffee fraternity in India, Vikram Khurana was the first and only Indian to receive a silver medal in the famed World Barista Championship 2002. Since then, Khurana has gained recognition to be a coffee extraordinaire and has immensely contributed to the growth of speciality coffee in India. In his 21 years of extensive learning experience, Khurana has consulted several Indian and international brands in coffee that have successfully launched. Currently serving as the Chief Executive Officer at his company – KAAPI Solutions, Khurana is also the President of the United Coffee Association of India. Having won the global rendition of NBC, Khurana has had a long-standing association with the decade-old championship. He has been an esteemed jury member at the championship for over 10 long years.

Commenting on this association, Vikram Khurana, Founder and CEO of KAAPI Solutions, added, “Coffee is a language itself. We at KAAPI Solutions are so excited to give voice to this language at the latest National Barista Championship 2022. It will be exhilarating to see the best of the best unite to celebrate our common love for the beverage. We are also thankful to the Coffee Board of India and the Specialty Coffee Association of India for organising an event that honours and celebrates the best coffee talent within our country. I wish good luck and success to all the participating candidates. May you brew the perfect blend and awaken the inner maestro with yourself.”

Celebrating the association with KAAPI Solutions, DM Purnesh, the President of Specialty Coffee Association of India, said, “We have been successfully conducting NBC due to constant support we receive from Kaapi Solutions team run by Vikram Khurana. They have been providing financial support as well as providing coffee machines and helping in installing and giving technical support for the last many years. We wholeheartedly welcome Kaapi Solutions once again for the 20th edition of the National Barista Championship.

We wish all the best for all the participants of NBC 2022″.

KAAPI Solutions is one of India’s leading suppliers of imported coffee machines. The company has grown to become a market leader within the industry. Beyond having the best network of coffee machines across the globe, KAAPI Solutions is also the exclusive partner for Astoria, a brand for premium coffee machines in India. Tempesta by Storm Barista Attitude, part of Astoria, is also known to sponsor the World Barista Championship between 2022-2025.

Dedicated to the pure science of making the perfect blend of speciality coffee, these coffee machines have revolutionised the coffee culture in India. The term ‘Specialty coffee’ or ‘Speciality coffee’ is used to refer to coffee that is graded 80 points or above on a 100-point scale by a certified coffee taster (SCAA). Speciality coffees are coffees at their peak and are different to other coffee because speciality coffee has been grown at the perfect altitude, at the correct time of the year, in the best soil, and then picked at just the right time. All this translates into some of the most exciting and tasty coffee in the world.

A pioneer in coffee technologies, KAAPI Solutions serves as one of the world’s leading suppliers of imported coffee machines. The firm recognises and effectively bridges the gap between efficient and aesthetic coffee equipment within India and enhances the skills needed to relish an authentic cup of coffee.

Their services go beyond supplying the finest coffee machines across the globe. Apart from this, they also provide state-of-the-art espresso equipment and conduct award-winning barista training.

KAAPI Solutions has a 360-degree approach to Consultation, Service, Training and Education. They believe in providing comprehensive assistance to help one’s business thrive.

This story is provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/PNN)

source: http://www.theprint.in / The Print / Home> ANI Press Releases / ANI PR / July 26th, 2022