Current 2023 Aotearoa New Zealand Barista Champion Honoka Kawashima has won 4th place at the World Barista Championship in Busan, South Korea.
Honoka’s journey saw her beat 60 contestants from around the world to reach the final day of the World Barista Championship (held last weekend at the BEXCO Center as part of the World of Coffee Asia event). , a testament to her dedication and talent, the News reported. Zealand Specialty Coffee Association.
“Her approach to coffee, similar to the art of origami, blends simplicity and complexity to create an appealing presentation. Honoka embraces the philosophy that complexity is not necessary to make coffee beautiful. The routine has been praised for its youthful charm and fun execution.
At the center of Honoka’s performance was Malaguesha, a Gesha and Malagogype hybrid from Finca Villa Beturia in Huila, Colombia, carefully grown by Luis Anibal at an altitude of 1,500 meters above sea level.
Carlos Arcilla of coffee importer Kofinet described the selection as “the best of two worlds” and roasted: Frank Hsu at Frank’s Coffee, Wellington Using an infrared roaster and resting for 30 days to perfection, it showcases both the quality of the coffee and Frank’s meticulous roasting process.
Honoka explained her affinity for origami as follows: “Origami represents the unfolding of something simple into something special, much like the experience of enjoying coffee.”
Her favorite pattern, a simple heart, symbolizes her love of coffee and the connections it fosters.
Honoka served 12 drinks to four sensory judges in 15 minutes, set to music.
- Milk course: A harmonious blend of 90% full-fat milk and 10% almond milk, reminiscent of chocolate brownie, shortbread and raisin aftertaste.
- Signature drink: Orange, red apple and strawberry combined with tomato water and distilled almond milk, enriched with black tea/fructose syrup and served hyper-chilled with layers of rock melon, sour plum and ginger ale.
- Espresso Course: A carefully crafted espresso with notes of pink grapefruit, pineapple and hibiscus, known for its medium body and silky texture.
Honoka’s coach, Logan Collinge, said, “My journey here has been a roller coaster,” and Honoka expressed gratitude for the overwhelming encouragement she has received.
Reflecting on her experience in Busan, Honoka highlighted the bonds formed and lessons learned, emphasizing the community spirit inherent in coffee culture. “We’re all in this together,” she said, acknowledging the support that kept her going throughout the competition.
Honoka’s husband, Nico Tsubasa, is the 2023 Meadowfresh NZ Latte Art Champion and will represent New Zealand at the World Latte Art Championships in Copenhagen this June.
