Esdras Vega
Costa Rica
Instituto del Café de Costa Rica
Please tell us a little about yourself:
I am from Puntarenas, Costa Rica. I am 53 years old, and a proud husband and father of four children, who has been married for 35 years. I have 20 years of experience in cupping, and have participated for almost 10 years as a judge in Cup of Excellence of Costa Rica. Certified Q-Grader, Star Cupper, Barista, Cupping Instructor, and currently in charge of Quality Control for the Coffee Institute of Costa Rica.
How did you get started in coffee?:
I got involved in coffee when I lost my job in radio and had to start looking for work. I started working in Volcafe in Costa Rica, preparing the coffee bags for exportation, and from there I started getting more involved in coffee, eventually as an assistant cupper.
Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results:
2016 National Cup Taster Championship – 2nd Place
What are you excited to do while you are in Brazil?:
I am excited to visit coffee farms, learn about their processes, visit mills, and coffee companies.
What is your favorite coffee to cup?:
I have three favorite coffees: geshas, honeys, and anaerobics.
What are your interests outside of coffee?:
My passion is the radio.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?:
I see myself working with an international company as a coffee buyer, this has always been my dream.
Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognize, or who helped you to prepare for the competition?:
I would like to thank Grace Mena, who was the first one that inspired me to compete, and also ICAFE for all the support that they have given me.
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