On Thursday 29 June we held our first ever Barista Skills Competition at WBS Café. The daylong event showcased the fabulous barista talent here at the University of Warwick.

Ran in conjunction with Union Hand-Roasted Coffee, the University's coffee supplier, our baristas competed against each other in front of a panel of judges. Competitors had to produce a number of cups, including espressos and their very own signature creation.

Showcasing the coffee skill across campus

With competitors taking part from across campus, they had to create their coffee under the watchful gaze of three judges. They were then presented to two expert judges, who sipped and scrutinised each cup for brewing method, presentation and the taste.

The top three competitors in the inaugural Barista Skills Competition were:

1. Jodi Snelson, Café Bar
2. Mirko De Lorenzis, Café Oculus
3. Jack Davis, Café WBS

Congratulations to our winners and well done to everyone that took part.

Citrus, chocolate or is that caramel I taste?

Throughout the day there was also the opportunity for students and staff to test their taste buds in a flavour challenge, to see if they could match the coffee to its flavour profile.

With flavours including chocolate and caramel, citrus and floral, and fruit, the challenge was a great way for people to get a taste of different styles of coffee.

Tony Howard, Director of Strategy and Development for Warwick Retail said:

"It was great to see our baristas from across campus all in one place, competing to make great coffee. We also had a fantastic turnout of staff and students coming to watch and also take on the flavour challenge. We aim to be back bigger and better next year."

Find out more:

Our ethical commitment to coffee | WBS Café | Union Hand-Roasted Coffee