Just got word from Deon Mastenbroek, someone who appreciates the finest thing in life, the perfect shot of espresso, that the Gautent Barista Championships were held over the weekend. I wasn't there, but I wholeheartedly endorse any effort to improve the state of Jozi's coffee culture. It shouldn't surprise you that Tribeca's Ishan Natalie was the overall winner, as the Woolworths house blend is really good and if you go to the Hyde Park or Melrose Arch branches you're likely to get a great cup of it.

"The recent Gauteng Barista Championships held at the University of Johannesburg was once again a reminder of the barista talent in the province. 22 baristas competed for the coveted title, but in the end there could only be one winner. Ishan Natalie from Tribeca (Woolworths) successfully defended his title with Wayne Burrows from Ciro hot on his heels.

During a barista competition each competitor has 15 minutes to serve 4 espressos, 4 cappuccinos and 4 espresso based signature drinks. In SA the competition is officiated by SCASA (Speciality Coffee Association of Southern Africa) in strict accordance with the WBC (World Barista Championship) rules and regulations. The top 6 competitors of each region will compete at the national championship next year in March where the South African champion for 2011will be chosen. He/she will then go on to represent South Africa at the world championships in Bogota, Colombia at the World Barista Championships."

Results for the Gauteng regional championships:

1. Ishan Natalie (Tribeca/Woolworths)
2. Wayne Burrows (Ciro)
3. Phumlani Sibeko (Stil Coffee)
4. Casper Mncube (Ciro)
5. Freeman Mhlanga (Bean There)
6. Jessica da Silva (Avanti Caffe)

Read more at http://www.joburgcoffeeclub.co.za