The U.S. Coffee Championships qualifier event, Coffee in Good Spirits, showcased baristas blending their coffee-making skills with mixology, creating innovative alcoholic coffee beverages. The competition, held at Counter Culture Coffee’s training center, saw Reynalyn Callejo take the top spot, with Hugo Cano and Kaley Gann following close behind. Judges evaluated the drinks on presentation, taste, technical skills, performance, and commercial viability, with an emphasis on innovation. The event highlighted the coffee community's camaraderie and creativity, as each contestant's drink reflected their personal background and coffee expertise. Winners of the competition are seen as representatives of American coffee culture on the global stage.
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