Small coffee roaster's cup runs over

A small Kerikeri coffee-roasting firm has taken three of the eight major awards at the New Zealand Coffee Awards, including best coffee.

Max Coffee won the supreme award, as well as gold medals for best espresso and best filter plunger coffee at the festival in Taupo at the weekend. Owner Keir Toto said yesterday he was "just blown away that we did so well".

A judging panel, headed by international coffee judge Instaurator, tasted more than 100 coffees from 40 roasting companies.

The judge called the coffees "absolutely outstanding".

"To see a little company such as Max win this award really demonstrates the passion of the coffee industry."

The national finals of the barista awards were also held. The winner was Luciano Marcolino, of Christchurch. Mr Marcolino will compete next year in Berne in the World Barista Championships.

- NZPA