Eight baristas from cafes in and around Wangaratta as well as Myrtleford and Tarrawingee took part in the contest in a bid to be dubbed creator of the best brew.

Organiser and Business Wangaratta secretary Malcolm Bradbury said each entrant had to make 12 coffees — four cappuccinos, four espressos and four “mystery drinks” — within 15 minutes, with an extra 15 minutes allocated for preparation and clean-up.

The baristas selected the mystery drinks, which included cafe favourites such as macchiatos and lattes, from cards laid face-down on a table.

Mr Bradbury said the spontaneity was intended to mimic serving in a busy coffee shop.

The caffeine creations were assessed by a panel of four sensory judges, who ranked the competitors on taste, smell and service style, as well as a timer and a technical judge, who examined the baristas’ method.

“The sensory judge is how it is to the customer — they’re about taste and the presentation,” he said.

Mr Bradbury said he hoped the competition would expand next year.

“We’re supporting the local tourism and hospitality industry and helping to raise the bar so this area is known for its coffee,” he said.