16th Annual State of Hawai'i Cupping Competition

The HCA 2025 Cupping Competition will be open for registration beginning on April 1, 2025, and we are thrilled to announce some key rule changes designed to elevate the competition and provide even greater opportunities for Hawai‘i coffee producers!

Registration Window: April 1 – April 30, 2025 - NO LATE SUBMISSIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED!
Cupping Dates: May 27 – May 30, 2025 (Closed-Door Event at Roastronix, Texas)
Winners Announced: July 18, 2025, at the HCA Annual Conference

Official Rules and Guidelines for the Competition

The link for registration will be available here on April 1, 2025

What’s New in 2025?

Submission Limit & Waitlist Protocol

• Each registered TMK may submit up to six samples. If an entity wishes to submit more, extra samples will be placed on a waitlist and accepted only if the 105-entry competition cap is not reached.

Differentiation Rules – No Duplicate Submissions!

• Every sample submitted must have a unique characteristic, such as:
  Variety (e.g., Typica vs. SL-28)
  Processing Method (e.g., Washed vs. Honey)
  Fermentation Protocol (e.g., different durations, co-ferments, or inoculants)
• Duplicate entries will be disqualified, and fees will not be refunded.

New Competition Divisions

• Creative Division: Focused on innovative post-harvest processing techniques, including various fermentation methods and inoculants.
• Micro-Lot Division: For larger-scale production with a minimum lot size of 500 lbs.

New Category Distinctions
All coffees will now be categorized as:

•  Unpulped: Coffees that retain the fruit skin throughout drying (e.g., Natural, Fruit-Dried).
  
•  Pulped: Coffees that have had the fruit skin removed before drying (e.g., Washed, Honey).
  

Submission Guidelines

• Moisture content must be between 9%-12% and defects must not exceed 15% by weight.
• Each sample must be accompanied by a fully completed registration form and proof of payment.
• Late submissions will NOT be accepted.

Entry Fee: $100 per sample (non-refundable)

The full set of official rules and submission guidelines is available here for your review.

This year’s competition promises to be more competitive and rewarding than ever. Make sure you register early and prepare your best lots to compete among the finest coffees in Hawai‘i!

For any questions, please contact:

Official Rules and Guidelines for the Competition