Costa Coffee recently held their Barista of The Year 2009, involving baristas from over 1,000 Costa stores around the world. They were judged on technical skill, presentation, personality and passion for coffee. Six UK finalists, and four finalists from China, India, Europe and the Middle East and North Africa made it through to the Champion of Champions Final. Video after the break.

The 2009 winners are :

1st Gabor Kamondi
Dorking

2nd Jonathan Scott
Carlisle

3rd Elia Burbello
Cork

Baristas in the competition have just 12 minutes to make four espressos, four milk coffees and four latte art coffees. They are judged by coffee industry experts, on the criteria of beverage presentation, barista technique, personal presentation, service to judges and most importantly flavour.

The winners were :

• 1st place – Jesse Hyde (Grand Champion)
• 2nd place – Alexandra Stathis
• 3rd place – Luke Elkhuizen

So, will you try your luck next year?