For the first time, a barista championship held at an Asia level. In conjunction with the FHA2008, ABC took place in Singapore on the 23rd & 24th April.

Here are the contestants:

Ms. Vanessa M. Caceres, National Champion of The Philippines
Mr. Scott Callaghan, 2007 Australia Barista Champion, 2006 World Latte Art Champion
Mr. Carl Sara, 2004, 2005, 2007 New Zealand Champion and 2nd runner–up for 2007 WBC
Mr. John Ting, 1st runner – up for 2007 Singapore National Barista Championship
Ms. Sirithai Rangjanthue, 2007 National Champion of Thailand
Mr. Tassi Agustinus Yosef, National Champion of Indonesia
Ms. Cherly Lee, National Champion of Malaysia
Mr. Liu Jia wei, National Champion of Taiwan
Mr. Sa hong Kim, National Champion of Korea
and others (didn’t manage to source for their names) from China and India.

Special notes: Unlike the World Barista Championship, the ABC has a slightly different slant to it. Contestant are “forced” to use specific ingredients for their drinks preparation.

Espresso Machine – La Marzocco
Grinder – Mahlkonig
Coffee – Coffex
Flavourings – Da Vinci Gourmet Syrup & Sauce
Blender – Hamilton Beach
Milk – Greenfield

Trophy

And the ASIA BARISTA CHAMPION Mr. Carl Sara from New Zealand.
1st Runner-up: Mr. Scottie Callaghan of Australia
2nd Runner-up: Mr. Liu Jia Wei of Taiwan
4th Place: Mr Sa Hong Kim of Korea
5th Place: Ms. Cherly Lee of Malaysia

Extra Categories:
Best Espresso – Mr. Liu Jia Wei
Best Latte Art – Mr. Carl Sara
Best Signature Drink – Mr. Carl Sara