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When using the term in English jargon, "barista" refers to one who has acquired some level of expertise in the preparation of espresso-based coffee drinks. Within certain circles, its meaning is expanding to include what might be called a "coffee sommelier"; a professional who is highly skilled in coffee preparation, with a comprehensive understanding of coffee, coffee blends, espresso, quality, coffee varieties, roast degree, espresso equipment, maintenance, latte art, etc. James Hoffmann of Britain is the current World Barista Champion.
Though popularly believed to be an Italian term, the word barista (plural: baristi or bariste ) was adapted in the United States as a derivative of the Italian word meaning "bartender" and is now part of the lexicon of some American coffee shops. The term is derived from the Italian use of the word bar, which is similar to the American or British café. In Italy, the barista typically works behind a counter, serving both hot (such as espresso and other coffee-based ones) and cold alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
See also
External links
- Barista Guild of America
- World Barista Championship
- United States Barista Championship
- Too Much Coffee: non commercial info and forums about coffee, espresso and the art of being a barista
- Italian Espresso National Institute
- International Institute of Coffee Tasters
- Coffee Taster, the free newsletter of the International Institute of Coffee Tasters, featuring articles on the quality of espresso, chemical and sensory analysis, market trends
