How to choose coffee in a store?

Coffee has long been an integral part of everyday life for many people. Some people prefer an invigorating espresso in the morning, while others enjoy a soft cappuccino in the evening. However, choosing the right coffee is not an easy task. In this article, we will analyze the main characteristics of coffee, what they affect, and give recommendations for choosing the perfect drink.

Basic characteristics of coffee

1. Type of coffee

There are two types of coffee beans that dominate the world market: Arabica and Robusta.

• Arabica is known for its mild flavor with fruity and nutty notes. It is less strong and contains less caffeine.
• Robusta has a rich, bitter taste and high caffeine content, making it ideal for an invigorating espresso.

Rare species such as Liberica are less common but also have unique flavor characteristics.

2. Roasting the beans

The degree of roasting of the beans greatly affects the taste of coffee:

• Light roasting preserves the beans' natural acidic notes, resulting in a smooth, fruity coffee.
• Medium roast achieves a balance of flavor and aroma. It is a versatile choice for most drinks.
• Dark roast gives the coffee a rich, smoky flavor with a hint of bitterness.

The darker the roast, the less natural flavor nuances are retained in the coffee, but the higher the intensity.

3. Grinding

• Coarse grind is suitable for French press and cold brewing.
• Medium grind is ideal for filter coffee and classic coffee makers.
• Fine grinding is used for espresso and Turkish coffee, as it reveals maximum flavor in a short time.

4. Growing region

The origin of the beans also influences their taste:

• Latin America is known for its nutty and chocolatey notes.
• Africa is famous for its bright berry and citrus tones.
• Asia and Oceania offer rich, spicy and earthy flavors.

How to choose coffee

1. For vigor

If you need an energy boost, choose coffees with a high caffeine content, such as robusta or blends with it. Dark roasts will also enhance the effect.

2. To enjoy the taste

For a sophisticated tasting, choose 100% Arabica. Varieties from Ethiopia, Colombia or Jamaica have unique aromas and complex flavor compositions.

3. For the preparation of certain drinks

• Espresso requires a dark roast and medium grind for rich flavor.
• Cappuccino and latte are best prepared with a medium roast with soft nutty notes.
• Alternative brewing methods (Aeropress, pour-over) are suitable for a light roast that reveals fruity tones.

4. For cooking at home

If you have a coffee grinder, choose whole bean coffee to grind it just before brewing. For convenience, you can choose ground coffee or capsules if you use a coffee machine.

Practical tips for choosing coffee

1. Reading labels

Coffee packaging always indicates such parameters as the type of beans (Arabica, Robusta), degree of roasting and grinding. Pay attention to the "Specialty" marks - this is a sign of high quality.

2. Tasting before buying

Don't be afraid to try new varieties. Attend coffee tastings or buy small packages of different varieties to find your perfect taste.

3. Buy from trusted manufacturers

Choose beans from reputable brands or specialist roasters that offer a fresh product with transparent information about the origin of the beans.

Choosing coffee is an art that begins with understanding its characteristics. Consider your taste preferences and needs, experiment with roasting and grinding, try beans from different regions. Remember that the right coffee will not only give you energy, but also make your day tastier and brighter!