Koree, La Marzocco’s distributor in Poland, in collaboration with Coffeedesk.pl and Colours of Coffee, recently organized the Polagra Coffee Zone Workshops and Lectures led by the best baristas in Poland. Champions from all coffee categories, coffee shop managers, trainers and coaches gathered to promote quality coffee for three days.

The first day, 29th September, was dedicated to business. The lectures were aimed at developing management skills and increase speciality coffee awareness for both present and future coffee shop owners. The Second day, September 30th, was dedicated to the La Marzocco Barista Challenge. Sixteen Polish baristas were challenged to prepare their best espresso shots, cappuccinos and lattes on two La Marzocco Linea Classic machines.

The first round included brewing as many cappuccinos as possible, according to the following parameters: pattern contrast, pattern position, symmetry, correct size, visual foam quality, foam level, taste balance and temperature. The eight baristas who entered the second round were challenged with making their best cappuccino in a small glass, according to a pattern that was randomly chosen by the judges. During the third round, four baristas gave their best in presenting their coffee-based cocktail. Some of the judging criteria included creativity in using different ingredients, balance and combination of flavours, as well as barista performance. The final round between two finalists involved making a latte macchiato in the most creative way possible.

Michal Sowinski from Qualia Caffe took first prize, which includes a trip to the La Marzocco factory in Italy.

The Third day, 31st September, was a unique opportunity for baristas and coffee lovers to discover Polish Barista Champion secrets! They shared their knowledge about Coffee in Good Spirits, Latte Art, Espresso Extraction, coffee sensor and tea expertise.

The passion that was shared over three days affected all those who were fortunate enough to attend the event!