Meet Oriana Barrientos Gonçalves, a Venezuelan coffee enthusiast who has carved out a niche for herself in the bustling coffee scene of Madrid. Oriana’s journey from Venezuela to Spain is marked by her passion and dedication to the art of coffee-making. As a barista at Coffee Tools SAT & Roaster and an instructor at European Bartender School, Oriana brings a unique blend of skills and experiences that have earned her recognition in the industry. Her victories in the Specialty Blend and Espresso Pro tournaments during Madrid CoffeeFests underscore her expertise and commitment to elevating the coffee experience.
Oriana's connection with coffee dates back to her childhood in Venezuela, where she fondly recalls enjoying coffee with milk on her grandmother’s terrace. This early exposure sparked a lifelong love affair with the beverage. Upon moving to Spain, Oriana pursued formal training as a barista, which introduced her to the world of specialty coffee—a revelation that transformed her career trajectory.
At Coffee Tools, Oriana plays a pivotal role in staff training, quality control, and consulting services. Additionally, she is honing her skills in coffee roasting, an area she finds particularly exciting. Meanwhile, at European Bartender School, she imparts her knowledge through a five-day introductory barista course. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes a multi-sensory approach, encouraging students to engage deeply with coffee beyond mere taste.
Motivation for Oriana comes from staying curious about every facet of the coffee ecosystem—from brewing techniques to the origins of the beans. Her competitive spirit has led her to triumphs in prestigious tournaments, showcasing her versatility and mastery over both specialty blends and espressos. Looking ahead, Oriana aims to integrate her coffee expertise into mixology, eventually targeting championships like the SCA Coffee in Good Spirits Championship.
Beyond competitions, Oriana champions accessibility within the specialty coffee industry. She advocates for breaking down barriers that exclude newcomers and strives to make coffee appreciation more inclusive. Her ultimate message centers on recognizing the hard work embedded in each cup, extending gratitude to farmers, roasters, and baristas alike.
In addition to coffee, Oriana harbors a passion for cooking and mixology, finding parallels between these crafts and her coffee pursuits. Currently, her focus lies in deepening her understanding of coffee roasting, a pursuit she believes will enrich her professional growth.
Oriana Barrientos Gonçalves exemplifies the spirit of innovation and inclusivity in the coffee industry. Through her achievements and aspirations, she continues to inspire others while paving the way for a brighter future in the world of coffee. Her contributions extend far beyond her immediate roles, fostering a community that values learning, sharing, and celebrating the universal joy of coffee.