Champion's Choice: Martin Guayasamin, Ecuadorian Brewers Cup Champion
When it comes to precision brewing, water plays a defining role in the final cup. For Martin Guayasamin, the 2024 Brewers Cup Champion of Ecuador, crafting the perfect water was key to his success. An expert in water formulation for brewing competitions, Martin turned to APAX LAB mineral concentrates to refine his brew water—helping him extract the full complexity of his coffee and secure the national title.
Here’s what he had to say about his experience using APAX LAB on his path to victory:
Why did you choose APAX LAB to make your water for the competition?
As someone who usually formulates water from scratch for competitions, I found APAX LAB to be an easy-to-use and effective tool that delivers excellent results in the cup. It simplifies the process while maintaining precision, making it an invaluable resource.
In what ways did the mineral concentrates help you win the competition?
APAX LAB minerals enhanced the sensory profile of my coffee, adding layers of complexity and refining the overall balance in the cup. The ability to fine-tune my water gave me greater control over the flavour expression of my brew.
What is your favourite APAX LAB profile?
I personally love coffees with bright, well-defined acidity, and TONIK helps me achieve this beautifully.
Finally, what was your winning water recipe with APAX LAB? And what coffee did you use it with?
My competition recipe was:
- 1g Tonik
- 2g Jamm
- 1g Lylac
I used a blend of Hacienda Santa Gertrudis coffees, featuring a washed Sidra and a natural Geisha with 72 hours of fermentation. This combination, paired with my APAX LAB water recipe, brought out exceptional clarity, acidity, and complexity in the cup.
Martin’s journey to victory highlights the power of precision water formulation in coffee competitions. By using APAX LAB, he was able to refine his brew and bring out the best in his coffee—proving once again that better water means better coffee. Congratulations to Martin on his well-deserved win! We can’t wait to see what’s next for him on the world stage!