Judging criteria and practice
The judging systems used in major coffee competitions and how professionals can practice calibration to prepare for judging roles.
- Coffee Basics Nerds
- 2 min read
Article 6 of 12 in Careers, Certifications & Competitions/
Why Judging Matters
- Judges ensure fairness, consistency, and integrity in competitions.
- They set benchmarks that shape global coffee standards.
Judging Criteria by Competition
- Barista Championship (WBC):
- Sensory: Flavor balance, tactile quality, aftertaste, aroma.
- Technical: Cleanliness, dosing consistency, tamping, workflow.
- Presentation: Storytelling, professionalism, customer engagement.
- Brewers Cup (WBrC):
- Sensory: Clarity, balance, flavor description accuracy.
- Brew Control: Consistency, recipe transparency.
- Service: Hospitality, presentation, educational value.
- Roasting Championship (WCRC):
- Green Analysis: Accuracy of defect detection.
- Roast Execution: Consistency with roast plan.
- Sensory Outcome: Cupping evaluation of roasted lots.
- Latte Art Championship (WLAC):
- Visual: Symmetry, contrast, sharpness of lines.
- Creativity: Difficulty, originality of designs.
- Execution: Consistency across multiple pours.
Practice for Judges
- Sensory Calibration:
- Regular cuppings with other judges.
- Blind tastings to align descriptors and scoring.
- Technical Drills:
- Reviewing barista workflows.
- Practicing scoring consistency across mock runs.
- Visual Training:
- Latte art photography reviews for contrast and symmetry.
- Grading sample pours against reference images.
Calibration Sessions
- Mandatory for certified judges before competitions.
- Aligns judging panels on scoring benchmarks.
- Uses reference coffees and standardized protocols.
Career Value
- Judging builds credibility, network connections, and deepens sensory expertise.
- Often a stepping stone to higher-level industry roles (trainers, consultants, competition organizers).
Summary
Judging criteria vary by competition but balance sensory, technical, and presentation skills. Consistent practice and calibration are crucial for maintaining fairness and global alignment, ensuring competitions reward true excellence in coffee.