IT’S JUST COFFEE! Inside the Judge’s Mind - How Coffee Competitions Really Work | HENDRI KURNIAWAN!
Ever wondered what really goes on behind the judge’s table at the World Barista Championship?
In this episode of It’s Just Coffee!, hosts Rohan Cooke and Ben Bicknell sit down with Hendri Kurniawan - Jakarta Coffee Week founder, trainer of judges, and World Coffee Championship judge - to unpack the fascinating (and sometimes controversial) world of competition judging.
From the evolution of barista competitions to the myths around expensive coffees, Hendri and Ben share what it takes to be a fair, consistent, and credible judge. They dive into:
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The core skills every judge needs - sensory training, calibration, and integrity above all else
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How score sheets, rules, and regulations shape competition outcomes
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Hot takes on cold brew, co-fermented coffees, and whether coffee competitions are really “acting contests”
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The huge impact competitions have had on innovation and specialty coffee culture worldwide
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A heartfelt shoutout to the volunteers who make every competition possible
Whether you’re a competitor, a barista, or just curious about the behind-the-scenes world of coffee competitions, this conversation offers insider knowledge, bold opinions, and plenty of inspiration.
Follow Hendri Kernawan: @phatuncle https://www.instagram.com/phatuncle/
Jakarta Coffee Week: @jktcoffeeweek
https://www.instagram.com/jktcoffeeweek/
If you’re new here (welcome), our show dives into some of the best coffee conversations on the internet, but we will always remind ourselves at the end of the day - It’s Just Coffee!
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