Hey there, coffee aficionado! If you’re like me, the world of coffee is an endless adventure, and every sip is an opportunity to discover something new and exciting. Today, we’re diving deep into specialty coffees, and I will update you from our recent trip to meet the coffee producers in Columbia. So, grab your favorite mug, and let’s embark on this flavorful journey!
The Specialty Coffee Wave
Before we delve into the rich variety of specialty coffee beans, let’s talk about the coffee wave that’s been brewing. Previous waves were about when coffee was merely a routine caffeine fix. The specialty coffee wave has been about savoring unique flavors, exploring diverse origins, and embracing the art of coffee.
The Spectrum of Specialty Coffee Beans
When it comes to specialty coffee, there’s an incredible spectrum of flavors waiting to be discovered. It’s not just about picking up a bag of beans; it’s about understanding the nuances that make each coffee unique.
Single-Origin Coffee Beans
Picture yourself sipping a cup of Ethiopian Yirgacheffe coffee while savoring its bright floral notes, or perhaps a Colombian coffee with its balanced profile and nutty undertones. These are examples of single-origin coffees, beans sourced from a specific region. Each region’s climate, altitude, and soil contribute to the coffee’s flavor. It’s like taking a trip around the world through your coffee cup.
I still remember the first full bag of coffee we purchased, it was an Ethiopian Yirgacheffe. Its subtle, berry flavors left a lasting impression, and I’ve been hooked on exploring different origins ever since.
The Art of Blending
Blending is another facet of the specialty coffee world. For more variation, roasters can combine beans from various origins to create a harmonious blend with a well-balanced flavor profile. Blends can be an exciting journey in themselves, offering complexity and depth that’s greater than the sum of their parts.
Specialty Coffee Varietals
Coffee varietals are like the grape varieties in the wine world, each with its unique characteristics and flavor profiles.
Arabica vs. Robusta
Arabica beans are celebrated for their mild acidity, floral aromas, and wide range of flavors. They are often considered the gold standard of specialty coffee. On the other hand, Robusta beans are known for their bold, robust flavors and higher caffeine content. They bring a unique depth to espresso blends.
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Exploring Other Varietals
Beyond Arabica and Robusta, there are numerous coffee varietals worth exploring, such as Liberica, Excelsa, and Typica. There are also a number of sub varietals, for example Geisha is a popular sub-type of Arabica coffee, and Bourbon are a distinct flavor experience, from the fruity brightness of Gesha to the rich chocolate notes of Bourbon.
With the weather pattern differences, coffee farmers have been experimenting with different varietals lately, as some of them are more disease and pest resistant and more forgiving of temperature and humidity differences resulting from recent changes in climate..
The Influence of Processing Methods
The journey of a coffee bean doesn’t end with harvesting; it extends to processing. The method used to process coffee cherries profoundly impacts the flavor and aroma of the beans.
Washed, Natural, and Honey-Processed
Washed beans are meticulously cleaned, resulting in a cleaner, brighter taste. Natural beans, on the other hand, are dried with the fruit intact, imparting a fruity sweetness to the coffee. Honey-processed beans strike a balance between the two, offering a spectrum of flavors.
If you compare washed and natural-processed beans side by side you may find that the washed coffee had a cleaner, crisper taste, while the natural-processed ones will possess more fruity sweetness. Some of the flavours may not be to you taste, and that is OK! Coffee experimentation is about finding what YOU like in your coffee flavours.
The Quest for Rare and Exclusive Beans
The world of specialty coffee is also about chasing the rare and exclusive. Micro-lot coffees, limited releases, and unique processing methods can lead to coffee experiences that feel like hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.
Forest coffee, the farm we visited in Columbia, was experimenting with all sorts of different fermentation methods, combining coffee with other natural flavours like citrus fruits, berries, etc. They produced many different flavours than you would typically find in coffee beans fermented alone. I think there is a lot of opportunity to pair coffee with many different flavours to enhance and produce a variety of delicious coffees.
Brewing with Specialty Coffee Beans
Once you’ve got your hands on some specialty coffee beans, the next step is brewing. The right brewing method can bring out different flavours in your chosen beans.
Embracing the Pour-Over
Pour-over brewing is like a ritual that allows you to control every aspect of the brewing process. It highlights the subtleties of the coffee’s flavor profile, making it a favorite among coffee connoisseurs.
The Boldness of French Press
French press brewing, with its full immersion and rich mouthfeel, is perfect for showcasing the robustness of certain beans. It’s a method that rewards patience and precision.
AeroPress Adventure
The AeroPress is a versatile and forgiving brewing method. It offers a clean cup with vibrant flavors, making it a favorite among those who love experimentation.
An aeropress can be a great addition to your camping box, it is light and only needs some boiled water and fresh grinds to produce an exceptional cup of coffee, even in the middle of a remote hike!
You brew you!
At the end of the day, we think coffee is about enjoying life, so use whatever method you are most comfortable with and whatever coffee you most enjoy. It does not matter if you enjoy a flavoured coffee made in your drip machine, or a microlot espresso, savour your cup and enjoy a little part of your day!
Conclusion
As we wrap up our exploration of specialty coffee beans, I hope you’re as excited as I am about the endless possibilities that await in your coffee cup. Remember, every coffee bean has a unique story to tell, and it’s up to you to savor and appreciate it.
