UPPER SADDLE RIVER, N.J., US – De’Longhi’s Seattle-based barista partner, Laila Ghambari, has taken home the coveted title of 2014 United States Barista Champion.
The competition, hosted by the Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA), scored competitors on everything from flavor to foam for a multitude of coffee-based drinks. Participants were tasked to make espresso, cappuccino and one signature drink.
While Ghambari’s scores were certainly impressive, it was her signature drink, which included espresso grown on the grounds of El Manzano in El Salvador, combined with coffee cherry jam and coffee flower blossom honey infused with smoke from coffee tree wood that captivated the judges and earned her the title
“We could not be more excited for Laila and what she’s accomplished – this is a well deserved title,” said Mike Prager, President and CEO, De’Longhi Group NA.
“She’s been such an integral part of the De’Longhi team, serving as an ambassador for our brand and espresso market educator for our partners and consumers. We wish her the best of luck and know she will achieve success as she moves on to the World Barista Championships next month.” Ghambari currently sits on the Executive Council of the Barista Guild of America and serves as the Director of Coffee for her father’s historic Seattle coffee company, Cherry Street Coffee House, which has seven locations in the Seattle, WA area. Next for Ghambari is the World Barista Championships in Rimini, Italy, where she will represent the United States.
De’Longhi Group
The De’Longhi Group is based in Treviso, Italy and is on the forefront of the small domestic appliance category with a range of premium products under 3 internationally renowned brands; De’Longhi, Kenwood and Braun.
The De’Longhi Group is committed to continuing their mission to create exceptional products that improve the lives of the consumer through innovative technologies and unparalleled design.
The De’Longhi brand is based in Treviso Italy and is a global leader in espresso & comfort products.
Source: press release – De’Longhi Group
