Hugo Cano - United States

May 18

Instagram: @hugsndemicups

Please tell us a little about yourself:

I am the owner and founder of Amberson Coffee, a multi-roaster shop in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA, and Texture Coffee & Clothing, a roaster and clothing retailer in Orange County, California, USA. This is my 3rd year competing in Coffee in Good Spirits. This competition has allowed me to rediscover my Mexican heritage through the world of spirits, ingredients, and techniques used in cocktails. I have only been drinking & making cocktails for 3 years. I am excited to share my story with the world!

What are you excited to do while you visit Brussels?

I am excited to return to Brussels and revisit the Musical Instruments Museum, the Beaux Arts, MOK Coffee, and visit as many coffee shops as I can!

What are your interests outside of coffee?

I love spending time with my wife Jessa, traveling, drinking coffee and cocktails (sometimes at the same time), eating, reading, and enjoying any type of creative endeavor.

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognize, or who helped you to prepare for the WCC?

I am so thankful for my wife Jessa and all her support, advice, and patience in helping me prepare for this and other competitions. Big thanks to Roastronix for their invaluable sponsorship. I am also thankful for the sponsorship from Pacific Foods & Slow Pour. Much love to the CIGS community in the US for all of the feedback and support!

What roaster do you currently roast on and how long have you been roasting coffee for?

I am currently roasting on a Stronghold S9X. I have been roasting for 3 years and have been the coffee industry for more than 10 years, but I still very much consider myself a student of coffee and have so much more to learn and grow.

What is your favorite coffee brewing method and why?

I am a big fan of percolation. Currently, my favorite brewer is the UFO because of its ability to produce clean and balanced cups through its wide angle and conical shape.

Besides your own competition drink, do you have a favorite cocktail?

My favorite drink is the Harry Nilsson as prepared by Public Domain in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA. This is a popular drink inspired by his 1971 song 'Coconut'. At Public Domain, they prepare with pineapple, lime, coconut cream, baking spices, & rum!

Stephen .