The Royal Queensland Food and Wine Show has launched the Royal Queensland Coffee Awards, providing Australian coffee roasters another chance to benchmark their products.
International coffee judge, Q Grader, and Q Roasters Owner Lachlan Hosking, who has 35 years of experience in the industry, has been appointed Chief Judge of the competition.
Lachlan will lead a team of roasters and industry experts as they judge both the beans and brews across three classes – espresso, flat white, and piccolo.
“Espresso is the pinnacle of coffee – since no milk is added, there’s nowhere for the roaster to hide. If you can create a great espresso, you’ve created great coffee,” Lachlan says.
“Since the Australian coffee culture is predominately milk based, we’ll also judge a flat white and piccolo, made by experienced baristas to precise measurements and temperatures.”
A champion trophy will be awarded for each class, with the overall winner crowned Grand Champion Coffee of Show.
“With the growing number of coffee roasters in Australia, it can be very daunting to select the right brand for your café/restaurant or simply domestic use,” Lachlan says.
“The benefit of this competition and competitions like this, is that if your product is judged well, it has the opportunity to become known to the consumer and then possibly a product of preferred choice.
“This is great for domestic users who want choice and to experiment with their coffee.”
Award-winners will also have the chance to showcase their product at Ekka, the Royal Queensland Show.
Entries close 3 April with judging taking place from 12 May and the winners to be announced at an awards presentation on 22 May.
For more information, visit www.rqfws.com.au
