Spain’s Star: Rufus Gideon Nathanael, World AeroPress Invitational 2024 Champion

AeroPress competitions have always been more than just brewing coffee. They demand precision, adaptability, and sometimes even a bit of improvisation. 

Few understand this better than Rufus Gideon Nathanael Blad, winner of the World AeroPress Invitational 2024. Having dominated the Spanish AeroPress scene for years, Rufus brings a unique perspective—not just on technique, but on the mindset behind competing. 

HUDES | Worldwide Digital Magazine for Manual Coffee Brewers

In this conversation, we dive into the discipline, strategy, and even the physicality that comes with mastering the AeroPress.

CHAMPION - Rufus Gideon Nathanael | photo by @aero.press  

HUDES: You’ve won multiple AeroPress competitions—what is it about this particular brewing method that keeps drawing you in?

Rufus Gideon Nathanael: I believe it’s because of how versatile the AeroPress is. At first glance, it may seem simple, but it’s actually one of the most complex devices you can use. There are so many variables—infusion, extraction, pressure—that really showcase a barista’s skill. It’s about precision and the ability to replicate everything perfectly, and I enjoy that challenge.

HUDES: There’s an undeniable physicality to competing—precision, control, endurance under pressure. Do you see any parallels between preparing for an AeroPress competition and training for a sport like bodybuilding?

Rufus Gideon Nathanael: Absolutely. The most important part of preparing for any competition is showing up, even when you don’t feel like it. Discipline is key—pushing through, knowing that all those hours and days of preparation will pay off.

When I was preparing for the Spain AeroPress Championship 2021, I practiced every Saturday for almost four months. Consistency makes the difference.

HUDES: Spain has a strong specialty coffee culture. Do you think the AeroPress has carved out a unique space in how people approach coffee there?

Rufus Gideon Nathanael: Definitely. The AeroPress Championship in Spain is one of the largest national coffee events in the world, drawing over 300 contestants each year. Carlos Zavala, the organizer, has done an incredible job uniting the specialty coffee community. It’s not just for coffee professionals—it’s a platform where home brewers and enthusiasts can participate as well.

HUDES: Bodybuilders follow strict training routines to build consistency. Do you have a structured way of training for competitions, or do you rely more on intuition?

Rufus Gideon Nathanael: Without revealing all my secrets—yes, I do follow some routines. One key rule I have is that I never try the competition coffee until 24 hours before the event. This ensures the coffee’s condition is as close as possible to competition day. If I can, I’ll even create my recipe the very same morning.

That being said, coffee is unpredictable—affected by humidity, room temperature, and more. So when I’m on stage, I also trust my instinct and adjust the recipe as needed.

HUDES: When developing a winning recipe, how much of it comes down to practice versus instinct?

Rufus Gideon Nathanael: Practice and instinct go hand in hand. The more you practice, the sharper your instinct becomes—you just know how to handle the coffee.

As Ingemar Stenmark, the Swedish athlete, once said:
"I don’t know anything about luck, just that the more I train, the more luck I get."

HUDES: Have you experimented with how different physical factors affect extraction? Is there a ‘perfect form’ for pressing an AeroPress?

Rufus Gideon Nathanael: Pressing too hard can cause channeling in the coffee bed. I prefer a slow, controlled press—around 45 seconds to a minute—which often results in a sweeter cup.

HUDES: Mental resilience is crucial in both coffee competitions and sports. How do you stay focused and composed under pressure?

Rufus Gideon Nathanael: This was one of my biggest struggles when I started competing. I used to focus too much on impressing others. But everything changed when I shifted my mindset—I stopped competing to impress and started competing simply to enjoy brewing coffee.

That’s when I started winning championships.

I also remind myself that in ten years, no one will remember who won, who lost, or what mistakes were made. So why stress? Just relax and have fun.

HUDES: Have you ever had a competition where things didn’t go as planned? How did you adjust in the moment?

Rufus Gideon Nathanael: Actually, in the AeroPress Invitational last year, I miscalculated my grinding time and ended up 0.5 grams short of coffee when I had to start brewing. I had no choice but to adapt—I adjusted my water ratio to compensate. It worked out in the end!

HUDES: AeroPress competitions are known for their fun, creative atmosphere, but winning still requires a serious mindset. How do you balance that?

Rufus Gideon Nathanael: I try to engage with others during downtime, but when it’s time to compete, I shift into focus mode. I might not be the most fun person to be around just before going on stage—it’s something I’m still working on.

HUDES: If you could change one thing about AeroPress competitions, what would it be?

Rufus Gideon Nathanael: I’d love to see more structured judging criteria—maybe a cupping protocol for the judges. The current format is fun and accessible, but a standardized evaluation system would take it to the next level.

HUDES: Beyond competition, where do you see AeroPress fitting into the future of specialty coffee?

Rufus Gideon Nathanael: I think it will remain a staple in most coffee shops and continue to be the go-to brewer for travel. It’s just so practical and versatile. (hudes)