2016 China Cup Tasters Championship: Dongguan’s Chen Runfa Wins

In the world of specialty coffee, the difference between a good cup and a great one often comes down to a trained palate. But discerning subtle variations across multiple coffees under time pressure? That’s the challenge faced by cup tasters at the highest level. For those aiming to compete internationally, every taste bud counts—and in 2016, one competitor from Dongguan proved his mettle beyond all others.

Chen Runfa won the 2016 World Coffee Cup Tasters Championship (WCTC) China selection round by correctly identifying all 7 cups in just 4 minutes and 59 seconds, securing the national title and a trip to the international finals in Shanghai.

The Road to Victory: China’s 2016 Cup Tasters Championship

Held in Guangzhou, the 2016 World Coffee Cup Tasters Championship China selection gathered 96 competitors from across the country. Among the local entrants representing Dongguan was Chen Runfa, a seasoned coffee professional from Qiaotou Community in Houjie. After advancing through initial rounds that narrowed the field from 96 to 8, then to 4, Chen faced the final head-to-head challenge. There, he impressed the judges by correctly identifying all seven coffees presented—and did so in under five minutes.

A Methodical Approach and Intense Preparation

Chen credited his success to years of hands-on experience and meticulous preparation. In the lead-up to the competition, he followed a strict regimen: early nights, light meals, and daily cupping drills. His practice sessions involved evaluating over 30 different coffee profiles to sharpen his sensory acuity. Beyond routine training, Chen traveled extensively—visiting specialty coffee shops in Beijing, Shanghai, Qingdao, and Taiwan—to expand his understanding of diverse brewing cultures and techniques.

Professional Credentials and Passion Projects

Chen Runfa holds multiple certifications from the Specialty Coffee Association of Europe (SCAE), including Coffee Taster, Barista, and Roaster credentials. His dedication to the craft goes beyond competitions. In 2013, he opened a specialty coffee shop named “” (Location Coffee) near Education Road in Dongguan. Positioned as the area’s first “in-house roasted” boutique coffee shop, Location Coffee focused on freshness by roasting and brewing beans in-store. Chen invested over 200,000 RMB in equipment upfront to ensure quality and consistency. The shop quickly gained popularity for both classic espresso drinks and creative custom brews.

Looking Ahead: Global Stage and Future Goals

In March 2017, Chen will represent China at the international World Coffee Cup Tasters Championship in Shanghai, where he will compete against 56 other national champions. He views these competitions not just as a test of skill, but as opportunities to learn from global experts and bring new insights back to the local coffee community. Chen also plans to grow his coffee venture by opening more shop locations and establishing a training studio to mentor aspiring baristas and cuppers.

What Is the World Coffee Cup Tasters Championship?

The World Coffee Cup Tasters Championship (WCTC) is a global competition where professional cuppers demonstrate their ability to distinguish between different coffees within a set timeframe. Competitors taste multiple brewed coffees and identify specific characteristics or match samples under timed conditions. The event aims to promote coffee culture, highlight emerging talent, and advance sensory evaluation standards in the coffee industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who won the 2016 China Cup Tasters Championship?

Chen Runfa, a coffee professional from Houjie, Dongguan, won the 2016 World Coffee Cup Tasters Championship China selection round by correctly identifying all 7 cups in 4 minutes and 59 seconds.

What was Chen Runfa’s winning time and score?

Chen Runfa completed the cupping challenge in 4 minutes and 59 seconds, correctly identifying all 7 coffees presented to him—earning a perfect score in the process.

Where will the international cupping competition take place in 2017?

The international World Coffee Cup Tasters Championship, where Chen Runfa will represent China, will be held in Shanghai in March 2017, with competitors from 56 countries.

What is Chen Runfa’s coffee shop called and what makes it unique?

Chen Runfa opened a shop called “” (Location Coffee) in Dongguan in 2013. It is the area’s first in-house roasted specialty coffee shop, focusing on freshly roasted beans and high-quality brews prepared on-site.

How did Chen Runfa prepare for the cupping championship?

Chen followed a strict routine of early sleep, light meals, and daily practice cuppings. He trained by identifying over 30 different coffee flavors and traveled to coffee cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Qingdao, and Taiwan to broaden his sensory expertise.

What specialty coffee certifications does Chen Runfa hold?

Chen Runfa is certified by the SCAE (Specialty Coffee Association of Europe) as a Coffee Taster, Barista, and Roaster, reflecting his broad professional skill set in specialty coffee.

Recommended FrontStreet Coffee for Cup Tasters

Train like a champion with FrontStreet Coffee’s Ethiopia Humbera, known for its complex floral and citrus profile that challenges even experienced palates. Pair it with Yirgacheffe for vibrant berry notes and a juicy mouthfeel, ideal for distinguishing subtle acidity. For a deeper cup, try PWN Golden Mandheling with its sweet, spicy, and full-bodied character. These beans offer the range needed to refine your cupping skills. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.