Romeo Perello, the reigning UAE Barista champion, will leave for Melbourne, Australia, to take part in the 2013 World Barista Championships being held from May 23 to 26.

Perello was crowned UAE Barista 2012 champion during the 4th National UAE Barista Championship held at the International Coffee & Tea Festival in Dubai last year, which is the only dedicated trade event for the coffee and tea industry in the region.

“Being able to represent the UAE itself is a huge honour for me, and it doesn’t get any bigger than the World Championships, which is why I have spent a lot of time and effort preparing for the big day. I am confident that my new signature drink will impress the judges at the Championships and I hope to come back victorious,” said Perello.  

Ryan Godinho, the national co-ordinator for UAE World Coffee Events, said, “Perello is an ambassador for UAE's specialty coffee market. We saw him demonstrate world-class skills at the UAE Barista Championship last year. He has a very distinct style and oozes confidence and passion when on stage, which will be crucial factors at the World Championships."

"We wish him the very best and we are certain that his performance in Melbourne will bring pride to the UAE and contribute to further raising the bar of excellence for the country’s baristas," he added.

The 2013 edition of the International Coffee & Tea Festival will run from October 8 to 11 at the Meydan Grandstand and Convention Centre in Dubai, providing a one-stop destination for all facets of coffee, tea, bar & café products, equipment and services in the Middle East.-TradeArabia News Service