David Solano
Guatemala
12 Onzas
Please tell us a little about yourself:
I’m the 4th generation of a coffee farming family from Guatemala. I am a mechanical engineer, and I really enjoy experimentation, coffee, and learning from my surroundings.
What are you excited to do in Boston?:
Learn about coffee culture and the people that will be competing as well.
Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results:
2018 Guatemala National Barista Competition – 1st Place
2019 Guatemala National Barista Competition – 1st Place
How do you see the coffee industry changing in the future?:
I foresee better and newer fermentation processes, and new techniques in farming and milling.
Where do you see yourself in five years?:
As WBC Champion, controlling and experimental coffee farm, and constantly learning about coffee.
What are your interests outside of coffee?:
Music and sports.
Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognize, or who helped you to prepare for the WBC?:
My girlfriend Atenea, for her constant support, and for pushing me to be a better person and barista. Guatemalan Coffee, Anacafe, and Escuela de Café, for all the support during training and every tip I’ve learned from them. Technochef and Trebolac, for all the support during training. Andres, for the grinder, and of course all the people that have been supporting me since last year—Renato, Felix, Manuel, Valentino, Juan Luis, Diego, Jacky, and all the baristas that helped me get here.
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