Brit Costa barista wins second runner-up prize at international final in London

A Bridgwater Barista was awarded the 3^rd prize in a competition to find the best Costa barista in the world on Wednesday (23rd October) at the international finals in London.

Tatum Clews, 22, competed with 7 of Costa’s most accomplished baristas around the world to be named runner up at the Champion of Champions final held at Vinopolis, London. She scoops a Barista of the Year trophy, a £750 cash prize and an i-Pad Mini as her runner up prize.

The 8 finalists were tested on their ability to produce a technically perfect cup of hand-made coffee and their knowledge and understanding of the industry. They were also judged on their overall performance, flair and passion for coffee, and on their creativity by inventing their own signature drink.

Tatum impressed the judges with her creation, a flavoured espresso based on the concept of a tequila shot, named ‘The Tayste’. The barista, who has worked at the Bridgwater branch since June, said: “I’m absolutely over the moon! To come 3^rd in the Champion of Champions event is just a dream come true, I’m extremely proud - especially as coming 3^rd means I’m officially the best female barista in the world! I couldn’t be more thankful to the team at Costa and everyone who has supported me throughout the competition”.

Head judge and Costa Master of Coffee Gennaro Pelliccia said of Tatum:

“Tatum did a fantastic job against some outstanding competition. She’s just what we look for in our baristas: someone who possesses true Pride, Passion and Personality about their coffee.”

Joining Gennaro on the panel were celebrity chef Phil Vickery and food television personality Stefan Gates. Vickery said of the competition:

“Judging Costa’s Barista of the Year 2013 competition has really opened my eyes to the exceptional skill and dedication displayed by Costa’s Baristas. I have been particularly impressed with the Barista’s creativity creating and developing their speciality drinks for us today and I now know what goes into a decent cup of coffee and will appreciate it so much more! Tatum simply ticked all the boxes for us: She was personable yet professional, and her skills shone throughout.”

Gates added:

“This year’s competition marks my second time as a Barista of the Year judge and the finalists have certainly lived up to my expectations and more this year. It has been brilliant to see how skilled these Baristas are and see personalities take centre stage at such an esteemed event for the Costa brand. I’d like to wish Tatum and all of the finalists the best of luck in their future careers.”

Tatum joins a list of prestigious Barista of the Year finalists including 2012 winner Victoria Stewart who, along with 2012 finalist Rob Pound inspired and helped develop Costa’s Chocolate & Orange Mocha Latte that successfully launched into stores this Autumn.

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