gauperaa

Congrats to Gwilym Davies from the UK who won the 10th World barista championship yesterday! Three in a row for the UK. Wow!

I didn’t get to see the finals (via live video feed), but I did see some of the finalists, including our very own Oda Misje Haug, and that was lots of fun, especially chatting to the 100+ (!) logged on to ustream.tv. Oda seemed to do a great job, but sadly she didn’t reach the finals this year. Her cappuccinos seemed a little thin, but according to comments from the chat (people who had spoken to her boss), the drinks had all been as planned. I don’t know which blend she used (someone mentioned Las Mingas? and something about being roasted at Kaffa?), but I did hear that it was light roasted, “scandinavian style”. I really liked her swift recovery when one of her shots was a bit off. Good job staying focused!

On the homefront I’m struggling with my espresso. I am not happy about the way it flows and tastes, and especially after visiting a friend who I recently helped buy a machine (La Valentina E-61) and grinder (Rancilio Rocky), as well as teach (even though he knew a lot already). His espresso was delicious and it flowed smoothly, not bearing any sign of channeling and quickening of the flow rate. Going to get a naked portafilter and measure my brewing temp in the following days to see if I can find what is wrong. Maybe check the pump pressure too.

Have a great week!

Oh, btw, currently reading “The professional barista’s handbook” by Scott Rao. Very interesting so far. Will write a review later.

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