Food writer Michael Turback is developing a book that captures an important movement in coffee culture, one that showcases barista "signature drinks," created for and inspired by jams and competitions. The author, supported and guided in this project by veteran competition judge Spencer Turer and barista trainer/creator of Viva Barista Matt Milletto, are inviting the indie coffee community to participate.

Your participation would require the composition of an original, espresso-based signature drink. Recipes may include drinks that have been made in previous competition or entirely new creations. (Each participating barista and his or her establishment will be credited and profiled in recipe headnotes, and each barista will retain ownership of his or her recipe).

For recipe submission, there are fewer guidelines than in formal competition. Drinks may be hot or cold, and alcohol may be included as a component. While the distinct taste of espresso should be present in each drink, overall craftsmanship, artistry, and culinary exploration is of primary importance.

The broader the range of recipes, the better this book will be. If you would like to consider participating, please drop the author an email at:

He will follow-up to supply more details. (To learn more about the author and his previous works, go to: http://www.reservationsonly.com)