The Prestige of the Competition
This week, I had the incredible honor of serving as a sensory judge at the National UAE Roasting Championship, held at the prestigious World of Coffee Dubai. As someone deeply passionate about the specialty coffee industry, this experience was both humbling and exciting.
Judging the National UAE Roasting Championship
The National UAE Roasting Championship brought together the finest roasters from across the region, all competing for the top spot. World of Coffee Dubai showcases just how significant this event is on a global scale. Each roaster presented their best roasting profile—carefully selected, roasted, and cupped for a panel of judges. Consequently, I had the privilege of being a critical part of that evaluation process.
Excellence at the National UAE Roasting Championship
Specifically, my role as a sensory judge was to focus on the aroma, flavor, balance, and overall experience of the coffee. It is not just about tasting coffee; rather, it is about identifying the nuances, the complexity of each roast, and understanding the technical skill behind it.
“Each cup told a unique story of craftsmanship, dedication, and passion.”
For instance, we looked for how well the roast developed the bean’s potential without introducing defects. If you are interested in learning more about how I evaluate these profiles, check out my About Me page.
What stood out to me most was the creativity and precision displayed by the contestants at the National UAE Roasting Championship. From distinct single-origin coffees to complex blends, every roast had its own personality. Moreover, it is truly inspiring to see how far coffee culture has come in the region. Roasters are pushing the boundaries of what is possible in every cup.
Final Thoughts on the Competition
I am grateful to have been part of such an incredible event, surrounded by so many talented individuals. The level of expertise and the spirit of collaboration in the coffee community here is something truly special.
To all the participants and winners of the National UAE Roasting Championship—congratulations! Furthermore, to anyone looking to explore the world of specialty coffee, I highly recommend visiting future events. There is always something new to learn, taste, and experience.
