‍Welcome to the world of coffee tasting, where each sip tells a story of flavours, aromas, and origins. Join us as we delve into the art of coffee tasting with tips from our expert baristas.

Coffee tasting, often referred to as 'cupping', is an exquisite art that is as enriching as it is delightful. It's not just about sipping a brew; it's about experiencing a journey through the senses. In this post, we'll share insights from our expert baristas to help you appreciate the complexities and nuances of coffee like a true connoisseur.

1. Understanding the Flavour Profile

Before diving into tasting, it's crucial to understand what you're looking for. Coffee has a complex flavour profile, including aspects such as acidity, sweetness, body, and aftertaste. Acidity gives coffee its brightness and vibrancy, often described as crisp or tangy. Sweetness balances acidity and is perceived as a smooth, often chocolaty or fruity, taste. The body is the weight or thickness of the coffee on your palate, and the aftertaste (or finish) is the lingering flavour post-sip.

2. The Right Tools

The right tools are essential for a proper coffee tasting session. Use a clean cupping spoon, a timer, and ideally, a cupping bowl. Freshly ground coffee is a must, and the water temperature should be just off the boil, around 200°F.

3. The Coffee Tasting Process

Now, let's walk through the tasting process:

  • Step 1: The Sniff Test
    Start by sniffing the freshly ground coffee. This first aroma is rich and telling. What do you smell? Nuts? Berries? Earthy tones?
  • Step 2: The Bloom
    Pour hot water over the grounds and let them 'bloom' for about 30 seconds. This releases the coffee's aroma. Take another sniff. Notice how the aroma changes.
  • Step 3: The Slurp
    Now, take a spoonful of coffee and slurp it vigorously. Slurping mixes the coffee with air, spreading it across your palate and enhancing the flavors.
  • Step 4: Tasting Notes
    Focus on the flavours as the coffee settles in your mouth. Is it fruity, nutty, chocolaty? Is it acidic or smooth?
  • Step 5: The Finish
    Pay attention to the aftertaste. How long does the flavour linger? Does the taste evolve?

4. Identifying Flavours

Coffee flavours can range from the obvious to the subtle. Some common flavours include:

  • Fruity: Think of berries, citrus, or tropical fruits.
  • Floral: Reminiscent of jasmine, rose, or hibiscus.
  • Nutty/Chocolaty: Almond, walnut, milk chocolate, or dark chocolate.
  • Spicy: Notes of cinnamon, clove, or nutmeg.
  • Earthy: Like fresh soil, wood, or mushrooms.

5. Understanding Acidity and Body

Acidity can be bright, like a lemon, or mellow, like a ripe apple. The body can range from tea-like and light to creamy and rich. Each element contributes to the overall experience.

6. Comparing Origins

Coffee from different regions has distinct characteristics. For instance, African coffees are often fruity and floral, while Latin American coffees might be nutty and chocolaty. Tasting coffees from around the world side by side can be a fascinating experience.

7. Tasting at Different Temperatures

As coffee cools, its flavours change. What starts as a bold, acidic cup might mellow into something sweet and smooth. Experience this evolution by sipping the same coffee over several temperatures.

8. Cleanse Your Palate

Between tastings, cleanse your palate with water or a neutral cracker. This helps in distinguishing different coffees more accurately.

9. Practice and Record

Like any art, practice makes perfect in coffee tasting. Keep a journal of your tastings. Record the coffee origin, roast level, flavour notes, and your overall impression. Over time, you'll see your palate evolve and refine.

10. Share the Experience

Finally, coffee tasting is best when shared. Host a tasting event or join a cupping session at a local café. Sharing observations and discussing flavours with others can greatly enhance the experience.

Conclusion

The art of coffee tasting opens up a world of sensory experiences. It's a journey through flavours, aromas, and textures that tell the story of the coffee's origin, its journey, and the skill of those who roasted it. As you explore this delightful art, remember