In testimony to the rise of Western style coffee in Asia, the first ever Asia level Barista Championship will be held in Singapore from April 22 to 24, 2008.
Participants from Australia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan and Thailand will compete for the title of ‘Asia Barista Champion’.
The baristas will be judged by a panel including four sensory judges, four technical judges and a head judge.
During the Championship, each competitor will be required to serve each of the four sensory judges, a single espresso, a single cappuccino and a single blended signature beverage of his/her choice, for a total of 12 drinks during the period of 15 minutes or less.
The Asia Barista Championship is jointly organised by Singapore Exhibition Services, organiser of FHA2008; Kerry Ingredients Asia and the Singapore Coffee Association.
Coffee is a growth market in Asia, with consumers showing an ever greater appreciation and demand for specialty coffee.