Project Description
Canada
Ben Put
Monogram Coffee
Please tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a co-owner of Monogram Coffee, located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Monogram consists of two cafes and a roastery. This has been an exciting year for me as my wife, Tara, and I had a baby in December 2016. Malcolm and Tara.
What are you excited to do while you are in Seoul?:
Korean BBQ! I also want to visit Namusairo. I visited it two years ago and had one of the best espressos of my life. I am also going to bring an empty suitcase just for Hazelnut Snickers bars.
Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results:
Canadian Barista Championship 2010-12 – 2nd Place
Canadian Barista Championship 2013-17 – 1st Place
2014 WBC – 11th Place
2015 WBC – 3rd Place
2016 WBC – 3rd Place
Canadian Brewers Cup Championship 2017 – 2nd Place
Canadian Latte Art Championship 2015 – 2nd Place
Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognize, or who helped you to prepare for the WBC?
So many people! My wife for not only letting me compete, but attending almost every competition I have ever been in (only missed one!). My business partners, Justin and Jeremy. Ninety Plus and the entire Makers team have supported me all year long with coffee and with friendship. The entire team at Monogram Coffee. The whole crew at Urnex for supporting me the past three years. Josh Hockin and Mike Strumpf!
How do you see the coffee industry changing in the future?:
Making quality coffee is still difficult, but it is getting easier. This will hopefully allow cafes to differentiate themselves in ways beyond simply coffee quality. I’m excited to see diverse cafe aesthetics, models, and offerings all with excellent coffee.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Hopefully still making coffee in the cafe and the roasterie.
What are your interests outside of coffee?
I play electric and upright bass. I like cooking and trying new foods. Playing with Malcolm is a new favorite. I like reading, but always wish I read more. There are few things better than being at home.
