Coffee roasters Vagabond staged a series of masterclasses in August, which focused on the art and production of coffee. Guests were invited to learn about the history, production, flavour profiles and creation of coffee in the experiential environment of the lifestyle concept venue Trade Union in London. With three shops across the city, Vagabond maintains a direct trade relationship with a farm in Colombia. The brand roasts its own coffee and offers whole bean and ground coffee available to purchase, together with home brewing equipment.
Starbucks opened a new store in Los Angeles that showcases the theatre of coffee. The store has been inspired by reserve coffee craft and from the moment guests enter, they are welcomed into a bright and spacious environment, featuring two long bars. Each bar is built for different speeds - commuters popping in for a quick stop, and others who would like to engage in a conversation about coffee. The coffees are created via a number of brewing methods, including Siphon, Clover, Pour Over, Nitro Cold Brew taps and Black Eagle manual espresso. Guests can also use the tasting space at the end of the bar.
Liqueur brand Tia Maria staged an immersive event which aimed to bring coffee cocktails to the masses. Forming part of London Cocktail Week, The Tia Maria + Coffee Project bar offered drinks crafted by expert baristas and renowned mixologists. The brand staged coffee masterclasses that saw Square Mile Coffee Roasters’ Anette Moldvaer and Tia Maria ambassador Rod Eslamieh advise on how to create the best coffee cocktail. In addition, guests could sample a menu of coffee cocktails, and attend the brand's music sessions throughout the week.
Coffee brand Lavazza took to Wimbledon to entertain those queuing for the tennis tournament with cups of coffee containing selfies and messages etched within the foam. Creative agency Amplify helped to deliver the activation, which made use of the 'Ripple Maker’ - technology that prints detailed photographs or written messages straight onto the foam of cappuccinos and lattes. Lavazza aimed to turn a cup of coffee into a memorable and engaging experience.
This month, Australian cold-press coffee liqueur brand Mr Black is setting out to test potential buyers of the product with an exam on coffee. Created for the release of the brand's ‘Panama Geisha’ coffee liqueur, the exam features eight multiple choice and essay style questions on the origin and grading of specialty coffee, as well as taste and the science behind the brewing process. Mr Black worked in partnership with coffee magazine Caffeine, and the exam was published in its December edition. After completing the exam, customers have 30 days to post the exam paper to the official invigilators, who will assess the entries and decide on the most appropriate candidate. The winner will be given the opportunity to purchase a a bottle of the specialist liqueur.
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