Paul Ross is always up to something. The two-time former UK Barista Champion has a tendency to not sit still. Whether he is practicing for and winning competitions or travelling the world in search of exceptional coffees, Paul is continuously striving to learn and improve. After leaving Watch House coffee in 2023, he set up Special Guests coffee, a boutique roastery that showcases the world’s most exceptional coffees.
Initially only available via its webshop and via retail café partners, Special Guests opened its own flagship café in London’s Maryleborn neighbourhood late last year. It is the physical manifestation of what Paul has been working towards and a place to taste the many incredible coffees that Special Guests sources throughout the year.
The first time Special Guests was featured as a GEMS partner was in 2023. After so many years of work with Paul while he was with Origin Coffee and Kiss the Hippo, this was a great opportunity for us to take this years long partnership to the next level. Paul has always been a great supporter of The Coffeevine and I was glad I could return the favour.
Now, for its second feature, Special Guests returns with a stunning natural processed Gesha from Auromar. This very coffee was used by Paul to win the 2019 UK Barista Championships.
It hails from the Brenes-Eleta family project in Chiquirí province. Auromar is widely known as one of Panama’s leading producers of elegant and delicious Gesha coffees alongside more unusual varieties like the Tekesik, Pacamara and Lupao.
Its Geshas have come in 1st place in the Best of Panama competition several times and are widely sought after by many roasters from around the world. The coffee is a very delicate and floral natural-processed Gesha that tastes like walking through a field with spring blossoms. Paul personally sourced this fresh lot when he was last in Panama.
For me, it’s a really great opportunity to showcase such coffees via the GEMS selection that features a brand new lot every other month. These coffees are the best of the best and are best enjoyed during special moments and with, special guests.
To order this extraordinary coffee, visit the GEMS product page.
