News from the Cupping Table

  • Elevate Your Home Brewing Game

    Elevate Your Home Brewing Game

    Introduction:

    The best coffee is grown at high altitudes. Most coffee is consumed in the lower regions where coffee drinkers vary widely in their commitment to making their daily brew. Some of us are super-serious about using the right coffee makers, grinders, and the finest beans available. On the other end of the spectrum, there are those who just want a quick morning caffeine fix. And coffee preparation methods provide an answer for each of those groups and everyone in between. Our customers have told us that they appreciate the quality of our specialty coffees and tend to lean towards taking care to get the most from every cup. Wherever you are, here's a place to start considering how to elevate your coffee enjoyment.

    To begin: The Grind Matters:

    Once you've purchased a bag or two of quality specialty coffee beans, your journey for the perfect cup moves to the grind. According to coffee experts, like our friend Leo Fante of Fantes Coffee in Louisville, KY, achieving uniformity in grind size is crucial for optimal extraction. Cheap blade grinders, which chop the beans rather than grind them, produce unevenly sized grounds, leading to under-extracted sour notes or over-extracted bitter notes in your coffee. Investing in a quality burr grinder is key, we like the affordable Baratza Encore burr grinder.

    Grind Fresh, Brew Fresh:

    Here's another must do experts unanimously agree on: grind your coffee just before brewing. The aromatics that make coffee smell and taste so good begin to fade within 30 to 45 minutes after grinding. You can't over emphasize the importance of freshness. Some argue that pre-ground beans have a week to a week and a half before losing flavor, however we advocate for grinding right before brewing for the ultimate coffee experience.

    Expert Insights on Grinding:

    While we're emphasizing the significance of grinding your beans at home, you might be asking how to discern the differences in grind sizes. For those unsure, purchasing beans from a coffee shop and having them grind them can be a good starting point. Grinder manufacturers like Baratza mentioned earlier provide a starting point for you in the instructions with their grinders. And the Encore has 40 adjustable grind settings to find just the right grind for whatever brewing preparation you use, from very fine for Espresso to coarse for French Press.

    Coffee-to-Water Ratio:

    Understanding the coffee-to-water ratio is crucial for achieving a balanced and flavorful cup. A good starting point is use 1to 2 tablespoons to 6 oz. of water. Use a real measuring tablespoon leveled off to be consistent in your measurement.  Experimentation is key to finding the right balance based on taste preference. If you want to go all in, a quality coffee scale can help you precisely dial in the numbers. And filtered or bottled spring water is best - never use distilled water.

    Fool-Proof Coffee Makers:

    For now, I'll focus on drip coffee makers because it remains the most popular brewing method. For those intimidated by the plethora of coffee-making options, many great choices under $150 are out there. Breville, Bonavita and Ninja offer models that heat the water to the correct temperature for extraction (195-205 degrees Fahrenheit) and slowly shower the grounds to ensure the water is applied evenly for the best extraction.  All of these coffee makers have automatic machines certified by the Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA) the standard of the specialty coffee industry.

    Conclusion:

    In the quest for the perfect cup of coffee at home, focus on the grind emerges as a top priority among coffee experts. Investing in a quality burr grinder, grinding fresh, and understanding the coffee-to-water ratio are key elements. However, the journey is personal, and preferences vary. Whether you embrace high-tech brewing or stick to a trusty auto-drip machine, the ultimate goal is to enjoy the coffee that suits your taste buds. So, embark on your coffee-making adventure, experiment, and savor the rich flavors of a perfectly brewed cup.

    If you have any questions, drop us a line and we'll be happy to respond.

    Continue reading
  • Why Your Home-Brewed Coffee Might Taste Bad

    Why Your Home-Brewed Coffee Might Taste Bad

    Introduction

    Ah, the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee—there's nothing quite like it to kickstart your day. However, if your home-brewed coffee doesn't quite live up to the taste of your favorite coffee shop, you might be wondering what's going wrong. Fear not! In this blog article, we'll explore some common factors that could be contributing to the less-than-satisfying flavor of your coffee.

    Title: Common Culprits:

    Poor Quality Beans

    The foundation of great coffee always begins with the quality of the beans. If you're using old, stale, or low-grade beans, you're setting yourself up for disappointment. Coffee beans are at their best within a few weeks of roasting, and as they age, they lose their flavor and aroma. All good coffee shops will serve specialty grade coffee so to ensure a better-tasting brew at home, always opt for fresh, 100% Arabica specialty coffee beans and store them properly in an airtight container away from light and moisture. Avoid storing in the refrigerator or freezer where they will absorb odors that will affect their flavor.

    Incorrect Coffee-to-Water Ratio

    Getting the right coffee-to-water ratio is crucial for a well-balanced cup of coffee. Using too little coffee grounds can result in a weak and watery brew, while using too much can lead to a bitter and overpowering taste. A standard starting point is using about 1 to 2 tablespoons of coffee per 6 ounces of water, but feel free to adjust based on your preference. Only you can decide the best ratio to use to satisfy your taste preference.

    Inconsistent Grind Size

    The grind size of your coffee beans has a significant impact on the extraction process. If the coffee grounds are too coarse, the water may pass through too quickly, resulting in a weak and underwhelming flavor. On the other hand, overly fine grounds can lead to over-extraction, causing a bitter and unpleasant taste. Blade grinders will produce an inconsistent grounds size and overgrinding with these high-speed blades can burn the coffee grounds. We recommend investing in a quality burr grinder to achieve a consistent grind size suitable for your chosen brewing method.

    Water Quality

    Surprisingly, the water you use to brew your coffee can make a big difference in taste. If your tap water has a strong odor, taste, or contains impurities, it will affect the final cup. Use filtered or bottled water  (spring water, not distilled) to minimize any unwanted flavors and ensure a cleaner, more enjoyable brew.

    Brewing Time and Temperature

    The length of time your coffee brews and the water temperature are crucial factors to consider. Over-extraction from a prolonged brewing time can lead to bitterness, while under-extraction can result in a sour or weak taste. Aim for a brewing time of around 3-4 minutes for most methods like drip, pour-over, or French press. Additionally, water that is too hot (over 205°F or 96°C) can scorch the coffee, so keep your water temperature in the “Goldilocks zone” between 195°F and 205°F (90°C to 96°C).

    Using the Wrong Brewing Method

    Different coffee beans and roasts excel with various brewing methods. Using the wrong brewing technique might not bring out the best in your coffee. For example, some beans shine in a pour-over, while others are better suited for a French press or espresso machine. Experiment with different methods to find the one that complements your beans' flavor profile.

    Equipment Cleanliness

    Neglecting to clean your coffee equipment regularly can negatively impact the flavor of your coffee. Old coffee oils and residues can accumulate in your coffee maker or grinder, leading to rancid and bitter notes in your brew. Make it a habit to clean your coffee maker, French press, and grinder according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Simple solutions of water and vinegar are great for descaling.

    Conclusion

    Achieving a perfect cup of home-brewed coffee takes a combination of art and science. By paying attention to the quality of your beans, mastering the right coffee-to-water ratio, using consistent grind sizes, selecting clean and filtered water, and controlling brewing time and temperature, you'll be well on your way to a superior coffee experience. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't be afraid to experiment and tailor your coffee brewing process to suit your taste preferences. Check out our Perfect Cup here. Happy brewing!

    Continue reading
  • Wake Up and Smell the Truth: How Bad Coffee Is Taken for Granted

    Wake Up and Smell the Truth: How Bad Coffee Is Taken for Granted

    Introduction

    For an overwhelming majority of the population, coffee is part of a daily routine. Worldwide consumption is estimated at around 2 billion cups per day. If you are like me, you look forward to that first cup in the morning to get you going. But because grabbing a cup of joe and running off to our day is so much of a ritual, we often settle for a poor quality brew. And at the same time it's easy to overlook the negative impact that consuming poor quality coffee can have on our lives. In this article, we will explore some reasons why I believe that our daily coffee can be taken for granted and hopefully shed light on the consequences of consuming low-quality brews.

    1. Sacrificing Quality for Convenience

    In our fast-paced world, convenience often triumphs over quality. Instant coffee and pre-packaged coffee pods have gained popularity due to their ease of use and time-saving benefits. However, the convenience comes at the expense of flavor and freshness. Mass-produced coffee often lacks the complex flavors and nuances found in specialty coffee. By settling for the convenience of preparing a quick cup, we are missing out on the true coffee experience.

    2. Unseen Health Risks

    All coffee beans offer certain health benefits when consumed in moderation.  Yet there can be unseen risks in poor-quality beans, which may contain higher levels of contaminants, such as pesticides, mold, and toxins. Additionally, low-quality roasting processes can lead to the formation of harmful compounds, including increased levels of  acrylamide, which has been linked to various health issues. To be clear, all coffee contains acrylamide, but fresh roasted coffee contains far less than instant coffee, for example. The bottom line is that by disregarding the quality of our coffee, we might be compromising our well-being without even realizing it.

    3. Impact on the Environment

    The coffee industry, particularly mass production, contributes to significant environmental damage. Cheaper coffees often come from large-scale, monoculture farms that rely heavily on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. These practices lead to soil degradation, deforestation, and water pollution, posing a threat to ecosystems and biodiversity. By opting for better-quality specialty coffee produced through sustainable and ethical practices, we can support a healthier planet.

    4. Economic Fairness

    Another aspect often overlooked when it comes to where we source our coffee is the impact it has on the coffee farmers themselves. Cheap coffee tends to come from large-scale plantations that prioritize quantity over quality. These practices often exploit workers and pay them unfairly. By consciously choosing ethically sourced coffee and supporting fair-trade initiatives, we can contribute to a more equitable coffee industry and improve the livelihoods of farmers.

    5. Missed Flavor Adventures

    One of the joys of coffee lies in its diverse flavors and profiles. Poor quality coffee often lacks complexity, depth, and unique tasting notes that can be found in higher-quality beans. By settling for subpar brews, we deprive ourselves of the opportunity to explore the world of coffee fully. Each origin, roast level, and brewing method unlocks a new experience, providing a delightful journey for our taste buds.

    6. Underappreciating the Craft

    Behind every cup of good coffee lies the dedication and expertise of coffee farmers, roasters, and baristas. Specialty coffee is the result of a meticulous process, from growing and harvesting the beans to roasting them to perfection and finally brewing a delightful cup. By consuming bad coffee without considering the craftsmanship involved, we fail to acknowledge and support the hard work of those in the coffee industry who strive for excellence.

    Conclusion

    I believe there are consequences to consuming bad coffee without considering its sourcing and quality. By sacrificing flavor, health, and the environment, we miss out on the true potential of this beloved beverage. It's time to shift our focus towards appreciating the craftsmanship, supporting sustainable practices, and indulging in the richness of high-quality coffee. So, let's wake up and smell the truth—bad coffee should no longer be taken for granted.

    Continue reading
  • What makes specialty coffee different?

    What makes specialty coffee different?

    Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world, with billions of cups consumed daily. However, not all coffee is created equal. Specialty coffee has gained popularity in recent years, with coffee enthusiasts flocking to cafes and coffee shops that offer high-quality, artisanal brews. We are often asked what makes specialty coffee different from other types of coffee? Here are some brief, but important distinctions.

    First, let's define what specialty coffee is. Specialty coffee is coffee that has been rated by a certified coffee taster or Q grader with a score of 80 or above on a 100-point scale. This means that specialty coffee is of exceptional quality, with unique flavor profiles, and is produced using high-quality beans.

    Now, let's look at the key differences between specialty coffee and other types of coffee:

    Quality of beans

    Specialty coffee is made from high-quality beans that are grown in ideal conditions. These beans are carefully selected and harvested by farmers who understand the importance of picking only the best beans. The beans are then roasted by skilled roasters who know how to bring out the unique flavor profiles of each batch of beans. In contrast, non-specialty coffee often uses lower quality beans that are mass-produced and lack the unique flavor and aroma of specialty coffee.

    Cupping Coffee

    The Roasting process

    Roasting is a crucial step in the coffee-making process that greatly affects the final flavor of the coffee. Specialty coffee roasters use a careful and meticulous roasting process that brings out the unique flavors and aromas of the beans. The roasting process is carefully timed and monitored to ensure that the beans are not over-roasted or under-roasted to achieve the light, medium or dark profile best suited for the specific beans. Non-specialty coffee, on the other hand, often uses a more mass-produced roasting process that may result in inconsistent flavor profiles.

    Freshness

    Freshness is another key factor that sets specialty coffee apart from other types of coffee. Specialty coffee is often roasted in small batches to ensure that the coffee is always fresh. The beans are typically roasted and packaged within a few days of being harvested, which helps to preserve the flavor and aroma of the coffee. In contrast, non-specialty coffee is often roasted and packaged in large batches, which can lead to staleness and a loss of flavor.

    Unique flavor profiles

    Much like wine or craft beer, specialty coffee is known for its unique flavor profiles, which are the result of careful selection, roasting, and brewing. Each batch of specialty coffee has its own distinct flavor and aroma, with notes of chocolate, fruit, nuts, and spices. Non-specialty coffees often have a more generic flavor profile that lacks the depth and complexity of specialty coffee.

    Ethical and sustainable sourcing

    Finally, specialty coffee is often sourced from ethical and sustainable producers who prioritize the well-being of their workers and the environment. Specialty coffee farmers are paid a fair price for their beans and are encouraged to use environmentally friendly farming practices. Non-specialty coffee, on the other hand, may be sourced from less ethical and sustainable producers who prioritize profit over social and environmental responsibility.

    Specialty coffee is not just a marketing buzzword. It is made from high-quality beans that are carefully selected, roasted, and brewed to produce a unique flavor profile. You’ll be please to know that specialty coffee from Cupper’s Choice is always sourced from ethical and sustainable producers, making it a great choice for coffee lovers who care about quality and sustainability.

    Try some today and taste the difference.

    Continue reading