Coffee is not just a one-size-fits-all beverage. It's a complex concoction of flavours and aromas that cater to different coffee enthusiasts with unique tastes and preferences, almost like an extension of their personality — which is why it’s important to really select your blend with care.
When buying coffee, you'll want to consider factors like tasting notes, aroma, and price, but also make sure that your choice is compatible with your preferred brewing method. To help you navigate the world of coffee and avoid any grounds for disappointment, we've brewed up the ultimate coffee-buying guide.
Know your beans
To make the perfect cup of coffee, you need to start with the basics. Let's talk about the beans. There are two main types of coffee beans: Arabica and Robusta. Arabica beans are generally considered to be of higher quality and have a more complex flavour profile. They're grown in higher altitudes, have a sweeter taste, and contain less caffeine. Robusta beans, on the other hand, are easier to grow and have a stronger, more bitter taste with higher caffeine content. Depending on your preference, you can choose between these two types of beans to get the flavour and intensity you're after.
The fresher the better
There's nothing worse than a stale cup of joe, isn’t it? That's why it's crucial to check the roast date when you're picking out your beans. After all, coffee beans start to lose their charm not long after they're roasted. Always take a peek at that roast date and once you've got your hands on those fresh beans, don't wait too long to brew them up. Aim to use them up within two to three weeks for that optimal taste experience. Because nothing compares to the flavour explosion of freshly roasted coffee!
Pick the right beans for your brewing device
The type of coffee you choose can greatly impact the taste of your brew, depending on the brewing method you use. For example, arabica beans are often favoured for pour-over and drip brewing methods due to their nuanced flavour profiles and low acidity. On the other hand, robusta beans are a great choice for espresso due to their high caffeine content and strong flavour.
If you're a fan of French press coffee, consider trying out a medium-dark roast, which will give you a bold and flavourful cup with a smooth finish. For a pour-over or drip method, a light roast with fruity or floral notes is a great choice. And if you're using an espresso machine, a dark roast with notes of chocolate or caramel will give you that perfect shot every time.
Check roast level
Did you know that the roast level of your coffee beans can totally transform your taste experience? If you're feeling adventurous, go for the light roast for a subtle, delicate flavour, or take a walk on the wild side with a dark roast for a smoky, bold taste. For those who want the best of both worlds, medium roasts offer the perfect balance of flavour and aroma. So next time you're in search of that perfect cup of joe, pay close attention to the roast level.
Don't judge a coffee by its cover, read the label
Go beyond the fancy packaging and think of the label as your coffee's dating profile – it might not tell you everything, but it'll give you a good idea of what you're getting into. So, before you swipe right on that bag of beans, take a moment to read the label and get to know the coffee's backstory: where it's from, how it's roasted, and what kind of flavour notes it brings to the table.
Be open to new experiences
Are you done with the regular coffee you have been sipping for a decade? It’s time to switch things up and try something new. Who knows, that bold and strong notes of South Indian Filter coffee might just become your new go-to morning cup. If you typically stick to a certain roast level or type of bean, mix it up and try something different. You might discover a new favourite that you never would have tried otherwise.
Be vocal for local
If you've got a local coffee roaster in your neighbourhood, consider yourself lucky! Not only do they brew up some seriously delicious java, but they also infuse it with a unique flair that you won't find in those bland, mass-produced blends. Don't forget the feel-good factor that comes with supporting small businesses - every cup of coffee you buy helps to keep your local community buzzing with life.
Just have some fun with it
Let's face it, along with being equivalent to an energy drink that powers our day, coffee also plays a role of a beverage that's meant to be enjoyed and savoured. So, let's add some excitement to our daily dose of caffeine, shall we? Try out new blends, and brewing methods, or even switch up your go-to order. Who knows, you might just surprise yourself with a newfound appreciation for a certain roast or a flavour.
In conclusion, let's make coffee a daily adventure. Embrace the unexpected, explore new horizons, and keep our taste buds on their toes. After all, life is too short to drink boring coffee!