The World Barista Championship (WBC) has increasingly featured rare and exclusive coffee varieties, which some argue overshadows more traditional coffees. The competition's scoring system rewards high-quality coffees, prompting competitors to select rare varieties they believe will score well. While this has led to exciting and boundary-pushing presentations, it also creates an accessibility issue for competitors without the resources to afford expensive coffees. This trend could discourage participation from a broader range of baristas and limit the representation of diverse voices. However, incorporating more traditional coffee varieties could level the playing field and reflect consumer preferences more accurately. The industry could benefit from a balanced approach that honors both rare specialties and conventional coffees, fostering a more inclusive and diverse competition landscape.
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