WBC Countdown: Barista Champion of Belgium Louis Donck

LOUIS DONCK
BARISTA CHAMPION OF BELGIUM
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Barista Mag:  Before coffee, did you work in a different job or industry, or what did you study in school?

Louis:  As a third generation coffee roaster, I was born and raised in coffee.

BMag:  How did you get started in coffee?

Louis:  Even when I was a student, I worked in our coffee bar and our roastery. Finally I started professionally in coffee and took over the company.

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BMag:  What was your first amazing experience with coffee?

Louis:  Even when I was a small kid, I was fascinated by that big roasting machine. I roasted my first batch when I was 10 or something.

BMag:  Who has been your greatest influence in coffee? Why?

Louis:  My father taught me a lot. Sometimes maybe he was “old school”, but he knows about coffee.

BMag:  What would you like to see change about the coffee industry/community?

Louis:  In general better results in the cup. Not only in specialized coffee bars, but everywhere people prepare coffee.

BMag:  Name a barista you admire, and why:

Louis:  Every barista, who is committed to coffee, I admire

BMag:  Do you have a favorite customer? If so, tell us about him or her.

Louis:  All our customers are my favorite!

BMag:  Besides your own cafe, what cafe do you think everyone should visit?

Louis:  Creme de la Crema in Roeselare. Michael is one of the most dedicated passionated baristas I know.

BMag:  Which coffee producing country you would like to visit, and why?

Louis:  All of them, but Ethiopia would be very nice.

BMag:  What are your interests outside of coffee?

Louis:  My little son of 4-and-a-half years.

BMag:  Is there anyone you would like to thank or who helped you prepare for the WBC?

Louis:  The Belgian chapter [of the SCAE], for giving us the opportunity to compete.

About Sarah 929 Articles
Sarah Allen (she/her) is co-founder and editor of Barista Magazine, the international trade magazine for coffee professionals. A passionate advocate for baristas, quality, and the coffee community, Sarah has traveled widely to research stories, interact with readers, and present on a variety of topics affecting specialty coffee. She also loves animals, swimming, ice cream, and living in Portland, Oregon.