Top 3 Things Judges Look for in an Espresso

Stepping onto a competition stage means understanding exactly what makes a cup of espresso stand out. When judges taste and score espresso, they’re not just thinking “Does it taste good?” They’re looking for specific qualities that reveal the barista’s skill and the coffee’s true potential.

Here are the top three things judges look for in the cup:

 1. Flavor Balance: a well-balanced espresso feels complete — a beautiful balance of sweetness, acidity, and bitterness.

 2. Body and Texture: judges pay close attention to the mouthfeel of the espresso.  The body of an espresso gives it character and substance.

 3. Presentation: it’s not enough to pull one amazing shot — every espresso served should match in taste, volume, temperature, and appearance.

Cleanliness, confidence, and a smooth workflow also matter. A judge can often see the level of the barista's skill before even tasting the coffee.

Master these areas, and you’re already thinking like a champion barista.