Which is for you the most unforgettable experience with coffee?
Oh that’s a tough one! I am carrying so many unique memories with me and will not be easy to exclude some of them, but I will try. 🙂
The most emotional one was hearing my place in the final of WBC in London, 2010! That was the best position that Greece has ever achieved through a competitor. I have raised the Greek flag really high and I can only be proud of it. It was so incredible to be among some of the most famously talented baristas in the World! One of the best finals in the history of WBC – some true coffee legends were there!
Then, in that same year I remember the trip to Peru – 15 days for the semifinalists of WBC well spent in farms and with locals. I was so happy that I was part of this team, as I met so many people, learnt about their challenges, inspired them and educated them about coffee. It was not just work. We spent time with kids, locals and families, who were really willing to teach us about the life in Peru. Playing football with the kids was an unforgettable experience!
Last but not least, 2014 and the moment that I heard: ‘’FOR THE 1ST PLACE, WORLD BREWERS CUP, 2014 IS STEFANOS DOMATIOTIS FROM GREECE’’.
I don’t think that I can find the words to describe my feelings. I was so excited, proud, honoured and happy. I had made it! But it was not just myself. Many people on my side who had spent their energy, effort and time to support me, I felt like I had won the trophy for them. After all, ‘’no matter how good a driver you are, you have to have the right car and the right team behind you in order to succeed’’
Why GEM? How did you come up with the idea and what makes it better?
The idea
I am pretty sure that by now most people are aware of my deep love for coffee and they can certainly guess my soft spot for brewing. I am also certain that you can smell coffee on me, anytime and from miles away.
This passion of mine made me observe people brewing coffee without even realizing that I was doing it. I still do it!
Wherever I was travelling, be that for business or leisure, I couldn’t resist observing all sorts of people, coffee competitors, coffee professionals, barista or consumers, making and drinking a brew. Pour-over has become increasingly popular, not only among coffee gurus, but also among consumers. People have fallen in love with brewing and in all dimensions.
