Sander Groenink
The Netherlands
Espressobar Maling
Please tell us a little about yourself:
My name is Sander Groenink, owner of the first espresso bar in Zwolle. Of course I have a real passion for coffee, but an even bigger passion for using coffee to connect people.
How did you get started in coffee?:
It all started 12 years ago after taking a basic barista workshop. After this workshop, I simply knew I wanted to work as a barista. Ten years ago I bought my own espresso bar in Zwolle.
Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results:
World Brewers Cup Championship 2019, 14th place (Round One)
Dutch Brewerscup Championship 2019, 1st place
Dutch Cup Tasters Championship 2019, 1st place
What are you excited to do in Berlin?:
I’m really curious about what the coffee scene in Berlin is like nowadays, and I hope to meet new people.
What is your favourite coffee to cup?:
I really like Ethiopian coffees from Yirgachaffe. It one of the first specialty coffees I fell in love with.
What are your interests outside of coffee?:
I’ve worked as a product/packaging designer in the past. Besides coffee, I still enjoy creating new stuff and concepts. My creative mind doesn’t have an off-switch.
Where do you see yourself in five years?:
Still working in my espresso bar, since it is too much fun not to… but I also hope to be a trainer for new baristas who want to compete in championships.
Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognize, or who helped you to prepare for the WCTC?:
Frans van den Berg, my coffee soulmate.
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