West Australian barista Ellen Taylor, from Shingle Inn Belmont Form, has been chosen as the national café chain’s best barista after she made her four best espressos, four best flat whites and her Signature Drinks for a panel of coffee judges at the finals held last week in Brisbane.
Ellen, who is from Belmont, won last year’s ‘Rising Star’ barista award in the same competition and the judges were thrilled to see her back with increased passion and enthusiasm.
Judges said it was Ellen’s signature drink that helped her take out the competition.
Her unique creation was called “Spice Up Your Ice” and was a sparkling creation of chili infused espresso, house made orange syrup, chilled soda water and a dollop of creamy vanilla ice cream, garnished with a slice of orange peel. Ellen says it is enjoyed first by sipping and then swirling in the icecream.
“On a good day, without the crushing pressure of expert judges intensely watching, tasting and judging my barista skills, the ideal coffees I produce are well textured from fresh milk, the espresso pour closely monitored, and the art fun. Honestly I find that when I’m having a great day, and I’m enjoying making coffee, that’s when the flavour and appearance are best,” Ellen said.
Her favourite coffee to drink is a latte and her favourite coffee to make for customers is a flat white.
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- Ellen Taylor, 2017 Shingle Inn Barista of the Year Winner