Espresso Competitions: the True Art of Coffee

While latte art often steals the spotlight, the heart of coffee craftsmanship lies in the espresso itself. At competitions like the World Barista Championship (WBC), the focus is entirely on the coffee: its origin, preparation, flavor, and the barista's technical mastery.

These events celebrate everything we stand for at Dalla Corte — precision, passion, and the relentless pursuit of the perfect cup.

Baristas have a limited amount of time (usually around 15 minutes) to present an espresso to a panel of judges. But it’s not just about pulling a shot — it's a full performance that includes:

- Espresso Tasting – Judges assess flavor, aroma, balance, and body.

- Signature drink – Creative, coffee-forward beverages (no alcohol allowed!) that showcase the barista's understanding of flavors.

- Technical skills – Consistency, cleanliness, and efficiency at the espresso machine are closely watched.

- Coffee knowledge – Competitors often tell the story of the coffee: where it's from, how it was processed, and why they chose it.

An outstanding espresso isn't a coincidence — it’s the result of precise machinery (like our Dalla Corte machines), careful calibration, and a deep respect for the coffee itself.