Guillaume Bertin, head barista and manager at Comes & Goes, found solace in the simplicity and complexity of the art of coffee.
Growing up in France, Bertin graduated as an engineer but chose to follow his passion and pursue a career in the coffee industry. He devoted his time to perfecting his trade after discovering speciality coffee in Australia.
“I worked in specialty coffee shops in Europe for four years before travelling to Central America last year, visiting coffee farms, cooperatives and exporters,” said Bertin.
“I moved to New Zealand to learn how to manage a café, and here I am!”
When asked what attracted him to a career in coffee, Bertin expressed his love for both the taste of coffee and the skill of latte art.
“More meaningfully, I love the apparent simplicity of coffee that hides great complexity,” said Bertin.
“It requires good knowledge and experience to be done well, especially in busy environments.”
Bertin was promoted to front-of-house manager, where he found satisfaction in creating a healthy and fun work environment for the Comes & Goes team.
As a head barista and front-of-house manager, he has assisted in implementing the brew bar, which allows baristas to brew hand-poured filter coffee using the V60 dripper.
Discovering the balance between the various flavours of coffee can be tricky and frustrating, but Bertin found solace in finding that balance and not letting any flavour be overpowered.
“I enjoy a very bright and sweet coffee, but I also enjoy being surprised,” explained Bertin.
“From a craftsmanship point of view, I acknowledge that coffee is a multidisciplinary industry, and it takes many skilled humans to deliver a great cup, from farmers, cooperatives, exporters and importers to roasters and baristas. So respect your coffee!”
In his spare time, Bertin unwinds by playing sports, spending time with friends and listening to good music.
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