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Brewed to perfection: top trends from the Julius Meinl local Barista Cups
This year, Julius Meinl is thrilled to host the international Barista Cup, spotlighting the amazing skills of our baristas from around the globe. With competitors from 12 countries and over 200 applicants, the competition has been both fierce and inspiring.
As we gear up for the Barista Cup finale in Vienna, we've spotted some exciting trends from our talented baristas. Here are the highlights, giving you a taste of the latest trends in coffee creativity.
1. Innovative alcohol choices
An interesting trend is the creative use of alcohol in signature drinks.
While 43% of the baristas taking part in the local competitions opted for alcohol, most stuck to classics like coffee liqueur, Irish cream liqueur, vodka, and rum. However, some more adventurous baristas experimented with wine, passion fruit liqueur, and even Guinness!
Insights from our Head of Julius Meinl Academy
Angelika Galas, Head of the Julius Meinl Academy observed the rising popularity of pairing stout with coffee, noting its delightful mouthfeel and unique flavor profile.
Showcased in the image:
Passion Brew by Oana Tudor
Country: Romania
Julius Meinl Customer: City Diner
2. The rise of sweet flavours
Sweet flavors are also on the rise, with 30% of baristas adding chocolate, caramel, or cinnamon to their signature drinks. Some even got playful with Oreo cookies!
Insights from our Head of Julius Meinl Academy
Our Head Barista, Angelika Galas, commented on the trend, noting the strategic use of sweet flavors in combination with The Originals Bio Fairtrade - Belvedere Blend coffee. She highlighted that the blend's medium to dark roast pairs exceptionally well with chocolaty flavors, reflecting a savvy choice by the baristas.
Showcased in the image:
Country Zimt Mocchacino by Gabor Salanki
Country: Austria
Julius Meinl Customer: Bäckerei & Konditorei Naglreiter
3. The incorporation of fruit flavors
Fruit flavors are making a splash, with 22% of baristas using pineapple, orange, and cherry for a refreshing twist. Passion fruit is a standout for its exotic flair.
Insights from our Head of Julius Meinl Academy
Angelika noted the popularity of tropical fruits like pineapple and cherry, and the growing trend of using orange to balance the medium to dark roast of the Belvedere Blend.
Showcased in the image:
Rosetini Meinl, please by Juraj Janosik
Country: Austria
Julius Meinl Customer: Wolfgang Puck Kitchen & Bar
4. Popular signature drinks and creative enhancements
Among the most popular signature drinks showcased in The Julius Meinl Barista Cup’s local competitions are Iced Lattes, Espresso Tonics, and Espresso Martinis.
Espresso Martinis are often featured with interesting twists, such as caramel, honey, cinnamon, and vanilla syrup. Espresso Tonics were also given unique enhancements with flavors like rosemary, clementine, and almond syrup. These creative variations highlight the baristas' ability to reinvent traditional beverages with fresh and exciting elements.
Insights from our Head of Julius Meinl Academy
Angelika pointed out the popularity of Espresso Martinis and tonics, reflecting the baristas' knowledge of the current market preference. Iced Lattes also offer a great canvas for creativity, especially for those newer to competitions.
Showcased in the image:
Shakerato di Lamponi by Dávid Melicher
Country: Slovakia
Julius Meinl Customer: Hotel Crowne Plaza, Bratislava
In summary, the trends from this year's Julius Meinl Barista Cup competitors highlight a bold and creative approach to coffee-making. From innovative alcohol choices to sweet and fruity flavors, and creative twists on classic drinks, our baristas are pushing the boundaries of coffee craftsmanship.
We can't wait to see these trends come to life in the Grand Finale in Vienna on September 19, 2024. Stay tuned on our social media channels for all the latest updates on the Julius Meinl Barista Cup 2024!
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