LOUIS DONCK
BARISTA CHAMPION OF BELGIUM
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.
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.
