A Brewers Cup routine looks relaxed from the audience. Behind it sits months of drilling.
Each competitor has a set time to brew for judges. They explain the coffee, the method and the thinking. Then the judges taste.
Start with the coffee
Finalists usually pick one lot that has an unusual story. It may be a rare variety or an experimental process. The coffee must taste clean and clear.
Build the recipe
Competitors test dozens of recipes. They change grind size, water temperature and pour pattern. A typical test uses 15 grams (0.5 ounce) of coffee and 250 millilitres (8.5 ounces) of water.
They taste each result and write notes. After a week they narrow to two or three.
Rehearse the talk
The talk must be brief and clear. Judges hear many. The best ones tell one idea and then let the cup prove it.
On the day
Water chemistry changes with every venue. Competitors test the water first. Then they adjust the recipe by a few clicks of the grinder.
A great routine looks easy because it was practised until it was boring.
