Barista Champion Crowned; Winner Hails From Washington

The Specialty Coffee Association of America's 2005 United States Barista Championship, Hosted by Krups, Reveals Best in the Nation

SEATTLE, March 14 /PRNewswire/ -- She grinded and tamped her way to the top. She's the 2005 United States Barista Champion, Phuong Tran of Lava Java in Ridgefield, Wash. Tran competed against 40 other master baristas in the Specialty Coffee Association of America's 2005 United States Barista Championship (USBC), hosted by Krups. The intense four-day competition began March 10 in Seattle with 41 competitors and concluded March 13 with six finalists, all vying for the championship title. The U.S. Barista Championship encourages and recognizes professional achievement in the art and skill of espresso beverage preparation and service. SCAA is the world's largest coffee trade association with over 3,000 member companies from over 40 countries. Krups is a leading manufacturer of premium home espresso and coffee machines.

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