The Road to the World Barista Championships: CP Wong

CP Wong, the Hong Kong Barista Champion, and World Barista Championship competitor, answers our questions ahead of the competition at World of Coffee in Amsterdam. Follow his, and all the competitors' journeys at the World Barista Championship website.

The WBC competition will take place at the Amsterdam World of Coffee on 21st to 23rd June this year. 

When did you fall in love with coffee?

Since 2009.
 

What was your first coffee job?

Barista.
 

If you didn’t work in coffee, what would you do?

Chef or Bartender.

What exceptional coffee will you be using in the WBCs in Amsterdam? Tell us about the coffee and what it tastes like.

Yemeni coffee. In the past, Yemeni coffee tasted old, defective, and lacked vibrancy. It is Mysterious. But, since last year, my friend Mr Hussein has been rebuilding Yemeni specialty coffee. So, we discuss together how to make a special lot of Yemeni coffee. Finally, we made a pleasing Yemeni coffee, which tasted like tropical fruit.

Who would you most like to make coffee for and why?

My customers and anyone who wants to taste my coffee; it’s my pleasure. 
 

Who would play you in the story of your life?

Nobody.
 

If you opened a café today, what would be on your first day playlist?

Music suitable for sharing my interest in coffee.

What’s your favourite way to make coffee?

Any equipment has a character. I usually use pour over, Syphon, AeroPress, French press, or espresso machine.

What are you most excited about in coffee?

Roasting coffee.