The Road to the World Barista Championships: Diego Mejía

Diego Mejía, Ecuador's Barista Champion and keen foodie, answers our questions for the World Barista Championship competitors. You can follow his journey on Instagram: @diegomejialuna

The WBC competition will take place at the Amsterdam World of Coffee on 21st to 23rd June this year. 

When did you fall in love with coffee? 

I fell in love with coffee four years ago when I took some lessons at my friend's barista school and the café, Isveglio. Didn't know exactly what I was getting into. 

What was your first coffee job? 

Isveglio hired me as barista immediately after the course ended. 

If you didn’t work in coffee, what would you do? 

I'd be running my own food business. In fact, I ended up in that barista school whilst looking for a place for my restaurant. Plans obviously changed. 

What exceptional coffee will you be using in the WBCs in Amsterdam? Tell us about the coffee and what it tastes like.

My coffee is produced by Hacienda La Papaya located in Saraguro, Ecuador. I've been working with this farm and producer Juan Peña for over two years, developing a research program focused in coffee quality. It is a very complex and rich coffee, sweet and floral. We're very excited for the judges to try it. 

Who would you most like to make coffee for and why? 

Hard question! the list could be endless. 

Who would play you in the story of your life? 

James McAvoy.

If you opened a café today, what would be on your first day playlist? 

Kadebostany, Led Zeppelin, Broken Bells, Queen, Fatboy Slim, Michael Jackson, The White Stripes, The Smashing Pumpkins, Muse, and A Perfect Circle whilst dialling in.

What’s your favourite way to make coffee? 

Espresso with my personal equipment and Clever Dripper for filter coffee. 

What are you most excited about in coffee? 

Currently, very much into roasting and cupping! It’s driving me crazy.