A total of 14 artisan bakeries from the Province of Malaga, along with 46 others from across Andalusia, participated in the regional semi-final of a prestigious competition. The event, held at La Térmica, aims to select the best bakeries in the country, highlighting those that uphold baking traditions against mass industrialization.
The Malaga representatives, including Obrador Ícara, Kachopan, and Panadería Ana La Fantástica, presented two essential products: loaves and baguettes. A professional jury, composed of renowned master bakers, anonymously evaluated the pieces based on criteria such as shape, scoring, crust, crumb, alveolation, aroma, and flavor to ensure maximum objectivity.
“"All pieces have been evaluated anonymously under criteria such as shape, scoring, crust, crumb, alveolation, aroma, and flavor, with the aim of guaranteeing maximum objectivity and rigor."
After the tasting, the jury's evaluations were placed in sealed envelopes to be delivered to a notary. This process will be repeated in upcoming semi-finals scheduled for Madrid on June 1, Pontevedra on June 6, Valencia on July 2, and Valladolid on July 6.
Bakeries with the highest scores will receive anonymous visits to their establishments to assess product presentation and customer service. Finalists will travel to the Bilbao Global Bakery Forum, taking place on September 13 and 14. There, the three top-rated professionals will bake their products live to compete for the DIR-Informática Gold, Silver, and Bronze Stars, the competition's highest awards.
The Malaga Provincial Council, through its promotional brand Sabor a Málaga, supports this initiative. It not only recognizes talent but also fosters innovation and enhances the visibility of artisan baking, considering it an essential part of Spain's gastronomic heritage.
