Bean there, done that
5:00AM
Thursday April 03, 2008
It's a short black for Chris White. Photo / Supplied.
As founder and director of Altura Coffee in Albany, Chris White won't accept good coffee. He wants a great cup every time, which stands him in good stead as one of a few Barista Championship accredited judges.
He is head judge at the Auckland final of the New Zealand Barista Championships this weekend, at which 26 baristas will be competing for a place in the New Zealand final.
What's the secret to great coffee?
If you can, buy fresh coffee from your local roastery as freshness and quality are guaranteed; there are lots of fantastic boutique roasters offering the world's best beans.
How can people do better coffee at home?
If you love your coffee and you want it to be as good as you get at your local cafe, invest in a quality espresso machine. Then search around for a good coffee appreciation course at your local roaster. A two-hour session should have you getting the best out of your coffee equipment at home and not pushing it to the back of the cupboard in the too-hard department.
