The Ultimate Barista Challenge USA Results
Latte Art Challenger Barista Greg Suekoff, of Caffe Pronto in Annapolis, MD was the only challenger to successfully garner an Ultimate Barista medal during the three days of Challenges. Ultimate Barista Ryan Dennhardt, successfully defeated the challenger in Espresso Cocktail Challenge, with his espresso cocktail comprised of espresso, vodka, fresh apple essence and cream served in an adorned martini glass. “The drink was well balanced, creative, cool and refreshing. An unusual combination of flavors for an espresso cocktail” says Sherri Johns, head judge. Ultimate Barista Heather Perry also successfully defended her title in Espresso Frappe and Best of Brew Challenges challenged by steadfast coffee specialist Douglas Wray of Coffee Labs Roasters. Baristi, plural of barista, someone who expertly prepares espresso and coffee drinks, from New York, Maryland and Pennsylvania converged on the Jacob Javits Convention Center to take their turns in qualifying rounds of Latte Art, Espresso Cocktail, Espresso Frappe and Best of Brew to attain a position as “challenger.” Once secure as a challenger, the barista, selected one of two Ultimate Baristi, either Ryan Dennhardt, Barista’s Daily Grind, Nebraska or Heather Perry, Coffee Klatch, California, in a one on one face off, ala Iron Chef, of stiff competition in dueling portafilters, steamy milk pitchers and twirling tampers each vying for the title “Ultimate Barista”.
Latte art is beautiful art designs prepared with steamed milk and espresso. Any tasty combination of alcohol and espresso is known as an Espresso Cocktail and don’t let the name fool you, an Espresso Frappe, frappe is French for blended, is a cold blended espresso drink. How many times are you served a bad cup of coffee after a meal? We are out to change that with the Best of Brew Challenge!
POSTED: Sunday, March 18, 2007