Alejandro Mendez

Who they are

Alejandro Mendez is a Salvadoran coffee professional and the 2011 World Barista Champion. Representing Viva Espresso in San Salvador, he made history as the first competitor from a coffee-producing country to win the world title.

Philosophy

• Vertical Integration: Advocating for the "seed to cup" connection, emphasizing that the barista is the final link in the producer's hard work.
• Producer Representation: Bringing the perspective of the farm and the mill directly to the competition stage.
• Quality at Origin: Focusing on elevating coffee consumption standards within producing nations, not just for export.
• Narrative Brewing: Using the story of the coffee's variety and processing to enhance the sensory experience for the drinker.

Notable quotes

"Win or lose, the most important thing is that El Salvador is here. We are showing the world what we can do at origin."

Signature gear & coffee

• Bourbon Variety: Specifically trees from Finca El Divisadero in the Apaneca-Ilamatepec mountain range.
• Nuova Simonelli Aurelia: The official espresso machine of his winning WBC cycle.

Known for

• 2011 World Barista Champion: The landmark victory in Bogotá, Colombia, that shifted the industry's focus toward origin-based expertise.
• Viva Espresso: His long-standing affiliation with the influential Salvadoran specialty coffee roaster and retailer.
• Signature Ingredient: His 2011 winning routine featured the use of coffee cherry components to highlight the botanical origins of the espresso.
• Industry Mentor: Since his win, he has served as a coach and consultant for numerous competitors from Central and South America.