GABRIELA CORDON
Guatemala,
About me:I started working in the Guatemalan coffee sector (Guatemalan National Coffee Growers, Anacafe) in 1999. I was in charge of the international promotion of Guatemalan coffees. In 2003, I started managing the auction program, including Q-Auctions, Cup of Excellence and The Exceptional Cup (Anacafé´s own independent auction). Three years later, I also managed special projects of the Association focused in Quality Researches, Cupping events and others.
In cupping and tasting, I was selected as national judge for CoE 2007 and 2008, National Barista Judge for 2007, 2008, 2009 and International Certified WBC judge for 2009. Since the beginning of this year, I am doing free lance and independent national and international consultancies.
Espresso machine
.JPG)
NOT YET
Gabriela Cordon | Mon, 01/09/2012 - 18:43I have not tasted a full 100% robusta coffee on espresso yet. I have cupped some great robustas and from India (fully washed, semi washed and naturals). They do offer a very distinctive profile despite the bitterness. I will never forget one that had pepper hints. It will all depend on the quality of the robusta, but I find interesting that you are willing to try it and let us know what you think.
NICE!
Gabriela Cordon | Sun, 01/08/2012 - 22:37Thanks for sharing your thoughts on espresso. I personally think that espresso consumption will increase more and more if higher quality of coffee is used. Ofcourse, baristas are key in brewing it properly and I think they have done a great job in spreading the news with espresso and a well preparation. The experience of tasting an espresso... with a dense an microbubbling brownish crema, sweet-acidity (tangerine type)-bitter perfectly balanced (the way they interact in your mouth), full body and lingering aftertaste... is just amazing.
INSTANT VRS.WHOLEBEAN
Gabriela Cordon | Wed, 01/04/2012 - 23:00The thing is there is nothing comparable to fresh grinded and brewed coffee. But I guess it is true also that their segment is precisely that one that has never tasted fresh grinded and brewed coffee. That segment of the market is probably happy to have an instant cup because it is fast, easy and does not need to clean anything but the cup.
COFFEE BENEFITS
Gabriela Cordon | Wed, 02/23/2011 - 18:42I love to read people's opinion about Guatemala. Yes, our country is as complex as its people and its coffee. I agree that other products won´t make that much of a difference. Growers that are conscious about the importance of human resource to achieve quality, invest in health and education for their workers. Workers commit to the farm's objectives and goals because they feel identified with the owners. They also feel doing a good job pays back. There is still much to be done in this area, since it is not an issue that only growers should look after. It is matter of government, private sector, cultural background and willingness to change habits.
GEORGE HOWELL
Gabriela Cordon | Fri, 12/17/2010 - 16:00Scott, really nice to read about George Howell. He is "a legend" and really passionate and committed coffee professional. Tireless when investigating or inventing a new program to accurately find the appropriate flavor profile of a specific coffee. If a customer buys some of his coffees, I am sure they will always be pleased.