With today's launch of the World of Coffee in Dublin, thousands of coffee experts and aficionados are expected to descend upon the RDS for three days of coffee-filled events.
Those attending will be able to watch the World Barista Championship, where baristas will have to serve up four espressos, cappuccinos and signature drinks over a 15-minute period. Ireland's representative, Natalia Piotrowska, will compete against baristas from 50 other countries to be crowned best in the world.
The issue of sustainability is becoming a hot topic in the coffee world, and as a result the event will host a series of talks at its Sustainability Forum on the economical, environmental and social challenges that the industry faces. Dr. Tom Schilling will discuss the subject of whether there will be any coffee left in the world in a 100 years time, and the role that innovation will play.
For those working in the hospitality industry and are looking to improve their coffee offering, there will be a SCAE Clinic where chefs, hotel managers and business owners will be able to drop in and learn what coffee options are available to their business.
The event will also host the World Brewers Cup, showcasing the craft of hand-brewed filter coffee which has seen a resurgence over the past few years. Competitors will choose their preferred filter brewing method and have to serve up three individual beverages to judges.
SCAE will present Excellence Awards in categories such as Young Entrepreneur, Working Towards Sustainability, Innovation and Lifetime Achievement, as well as awards for New Product of the Show. Those wanting to try some of the world's best coffee should visit the Cupping Room, the Brew and Espresso bars, and The Village which will be home to over 35 micro-roasters and coffee producers.
A free World of Coffee app can be downloaded on iTunes and Google Play Store for those wanting up to date information on exhibitors, a floor plan of the event and a full list of schedules.
