2004 Robert Harris National Barista Champion

ANNOUNCING THE
2004 ROBERT HARRIS NATIONAL BARISTA CHAMPION

24 August 2004

After 1620 coffees, a search spanning three cities and 135 contestants, the world of coffee is buzzing with excitement as this year’s top barista in the country has been named. Carl Sara of Muffin Break, Christchurch has won the prestigious title of ‘2004 Robert Harris National Barista of the Year’ and he will now go on to represent New Zealand and compete in the World Barista Championships 2005, in Seattle, USA.

Having come second at the regional heat in Christchurch, Carl went onto beat five other contenders at the grand final, held today (24th August 2004) at the Culinary Fare, Greenlane, Auckland. This will be Carl’s second time representing New Zealand at the World Barista Championships and he placed sixth at this year’s competition in Trieste, Italy.

Each contestant was required to make 12 coffees in 15 minutes, including four espressos, four cappuccinos and four signature coffees – which were their own unique creation. Judges marked not only on the look and taste of the coffee but also the baristas technical accuracy. Carl’s winning signature coffee was called Kiwiana and consisted of three layers: the bottom layer was kiwifruit nectar, followed by a shot of espresso topped with sweetened thickened cream and served in a martini glass.

The runners-up in the competition were placed in the following order: Paul Glover – Atomic Café, Kingsland, Auckland Luciano Marcolino - Vivace Espresso, Christchurch Tyrone Kairuz – Columbus Coffee, Botany Downs, Auckland Claire Whitburn - Cafe DMP, Napier Amy Julian - Ozone Coffee, New Plymouth

The Robert Harris National Barista competition is an independent annual competition which is open to all Baristas. It is the only competition in New Zealand that is accredited by the World Barista Championships and Robert Harris sponsors the winner to compete at the 2005 world championships. As the most respected Barista Awards in the industry, the National Barista Awards are sponsored by a number of highly regarded companies and associations including; Robert Harris, Anchor, Faema, DaVinci, Hospitality Standards Institute and The Restaurant Association of New Zealand.

Ends

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