Coffee Beans 101: Choosing the Right Beans

Coffee Beans 101: Choosing the Right Beans

If you’re a beginner at buying specialty coffee but want to brew café-quality coffee at home, we understand the frustration. You may buy coffee beans recommended by a professional, and they still might not be to your taste. When it comes to coffee, preferences vary. Selecting the right beans requires some knowledge of the different options available. In this blog, we’re breaking down exactly what you need to consider when buying coffee beans.

Arabica vs. Robusta

The two main types of coffee beans sold on the market are Arabica and Robusta. Choosing between the two is the first step in selecting the right coffee beans for yourself. While Arabica is generally considered to be of a higher grade, beginners tend to choose between the tastes. Arabica is known for its acidic and fruity taste, while Robusta is known for tasting more full-bodied and bitter.

Roast Date

When buying coffee beans, it is integral to make sure that your coffee has been roasted recently. Always check the roast date on the label to know how long it has been since the beans were roasted. It’s also important to make sure that the beans are completely sealed before buying them and then storing them in an airtight container to retain their flavour.

Level of Caffeine

Contrary to what most beginners believe, dark roasted beans contain less caffeine than light and medium roasted beans. Those looking for more of a caffeine kick usually opt for light roasted beans because they offer the highest level of caffeine. However, if you want to maximize productivity and alertness without overdoing it, medium roasted beans are the ideal pick.

Roast Level

Light and dark roasts are extremely different. For a beginner, the roast level is one of the most important aspects to consider when shopping for coffee beans. Darker roasts are more suited to those who prefer bold and bitter brews, whereas lighter roasts result in a smoother and less bitter taste.

Single Origin vs. Blended

Single-origin coffee beans are those that are from a single location or region and may even go as far as being from the same farm. Blended coffee combines beans from different locations to combine aroma, smoothness, and taste. Blended coffee is, thus, more flavourful and is often preferred over single-origin coffee. It’s also important that you understand the difference between whole bean vs ground coffee. That way you will choose the right coffee beans for your personal taste.

Keep Experimenting

At the end of the day, you have to keep experimenting with new flavours and new blends. After all, you can’t pick the best coffee beans if you haven’t tried enough. Getting a coffee subscription like that from Glasshouse Mountains Coffee is one way to try a variety of beans from all across the world!