Linz barista crowned cappuccino champion

Mario Benetseder of Café Orchidee in Linz won the cappuccino title at the international Julius Meinl Barista Cup final in Vienna, beating competitors from around the world before an international expert jury.

Fifteen barista champions gathered at the MuseumsQuartier on Sept. 4 for the 2026 Grand Finale. They competed in espresso, cappuccino and signature drink categories after national contests held in 15 countries, including Austria, Italy, Germany, China, Georgia and Croatia. More than 350 baristas had applied for the competition, but only 15 national champions reached the final.

The judges assessed taste, balance and crema in the espresso contest. The cappuccino category focused on the interaction between espresso and milk, as well as latte art. The signature drink competition emphasized creativity and a coherent taste experience.

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I am incredibly happy about winning the cappuccino category. This moment is the result of a great deal of preparation, training and, above all, my passion for coffee.

Poland’s Stefan Kot won the espresso category, while Georgia’s Luka Darispanashvili took the signature drink title. Elizaveta Rîmscaia of Moldova won across all three disciplines and became the 2026 Overall Champion.

Benetseder said the victory reflected extensive preparation, training and his enthusiasm for coffee. Competing in Vienna before a home audience and against baristas from many countries made the result especially meaningful to him. The four category winners will travel to India, where they will learn firsthand about coffee cultivation, harvesting and processing.

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Competing here in Vienna before a home audience and measuring myself against so many outstanding baristas from different countries was something very special.