Gordon Howell: UK Barista Champion & Coffee Innovator
Gordon Howell is a three-time UK barista competition winner. He has represented the UK at two World CIGS events, finishing third place in Nice. Gordon also won the UK Brewers Cup with pioneering brew methods that have since influenced baristas worldwide.
Co-founder of the legendary Tone-Swiss, Gordon has recently launched Norse Code Coffee Liqueur. In this interview, our Dean of Studies, Jem Challender, sits down with Gordon during World of Coffee Copenhagen for a long-form, wide-ranging conversation about his career, competition experience, judging, and entrepreneurial journey.
This interview is published in two parts. In Part 1, Gordon and Jem discuss:
- How Gordon became a barista
- Barista competitions and judging insights
- His unique approach to hand brewing
- The reasons behind innovating with flow- and temperature-profiling technology
Gordon's Coffee Career & Achievements
Gordon’s experience spans running coffee shops, competing at the highest level, judging international competitions, and teaching baristas for professional accreditation. His qualifications include a BSc in Hospitality Management and an MSc in Export Management. Gordon has also contributed to the World Coffee Events competition development and is a Dalla Corte Pro.
The Birth of Norse Code Coffee Liqueur
Building on decades of coffee expertise, Gordon co-created Norse Code Coffee Liqueur, a single-origin blend designed for balanced sweetness, bold character, and authentic coffee flavour. This product is now handcrafted in Yorkshire using the Cold Filter Brew process.
Part 2 Teaser
In the second installment of this interview, Gordon will dive deeper into: his entrepreneurship, product development, and advice for aspiring baristas and coffee innovators. Stay tuned for Part 2 to uncover the full story.
FAQ
- Who is Gordon Howell? UK Brewers Cup Champion, three-time UK barista competition winner, judge, and coffee innovator.
- What is Norse Code Coffee Liqueur? Gordon’s single-origin, ethically sourced coffee liqueur, handcrafted in Yorkshire using cold filter brew.
- Where can I watch the interview? The full Part 1 is embedded above; Part 2 will be released soon.
