Théo Auernheimer | German Comandante Champion

What is your job and where do you live and work?

I am a coffee roaster and barista for Pacandé in Munich.

What does coffee mean to you and what do you love about it?

I like to think of coffee as my calling. For some reason, i can’t get enough, and i strive to learn something new about it every day. And i absolutely love the community! Wherever you are, it is so easy to connect with likeminded people, exchange ideas and fuel each other's passion.

What is your experience with Comandante grinders and what do you like about them?

I bought one during covid when i started out in coffee. It has been with me ever since, and i love how easy it is to get good cups with it. Also, most people in the industry will be able to communicate “clicks” for different recipes, which has proven to be super helpful many times.

Why did you apply for the Comandante Championship?

I thought it would be fun, and because it was held in my hometown, it was super accessible. Also, it gave me a reason to obsess over brewing recipes and different approaches that i tend to forget in my daily routines. I love a challenge and an opportunity to learn!

How was the competition for you?

So fun! It’s always great to be around coffee people, the atmosphere was amazing and the whole thing was perfectly organized. My highlight was definitely sharing the final stage with Urs, who coached me through the German Roasting Championship earlier that week. It seemed like such a worthy end to an amazing week together, shoutout to Urs!

What is your advice for future competitors?

I want to open a roastery/café and make it an open, accessible space where anyone interested in coffee feels welcome. I want to focus on communicating value along the supply chain in a way that allows people to understand the challenges of the industry, all while finding ways to create impact in the areas we can, as a community, little by little.

What are your future goals?

Have fun, be confident in the stuff that you know well and that works for you, and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise!