×

A Beginner's Guide to Buying Coffee Beans


21 February 2024
A Beginner's Guide to Buying Coffee Beans


Are you ready to embark on a flavourful journey into the world of coffee beans? Whether you're just starting to explore the depths of coffee or you're a seasoned enthusiast looking to expand your palate, choosing the right beans can make all the difference. In this beginner's guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to purchase coffee beans that suit your taste preferences and brewing style.


Easy Brewers

Exploring the World of Blends

Let's start with the basics: Blends. A coffee blend is like a mixtape of different coffee beans. Each bean brings its own unique flavour profile, and when combined, they create a harmonious and delicious coffee experience. At our roastery, we carefully blend beans together to ensure consistency, balanced flavours, and versatility in brewing methods.

3fe Momentum Blend, IRFU Blend, and Pacamania Blend

Why are blends perfect for easy brewing?

Consistency: You can expect the same great taste every time you brew. No surprises, just your favourite cup of coffee.

Balanced Flavours: Blends create a well-balanced taste that's smooth and enjoyable with every sip.

Versatility: Whether you prefer a drip machine, French press, pour-over, or espresso, blends work well with any coffee maker.

Wider Appeal: Blends are designed to please a variety of tastes, making them suitable for both coffee pros and beginners alike.

Our three all-rounders, Momentum Blend, Malarkey Blend, and IRFU Blend, are perfect for those looking for an easy and enjoyable brewing experience.

single origin coffees

Exploring Single Origins

Ready to explore single origin coffees? Start with easy-drinking options that aren't too bold or complex. Here are a few regions to consider:

Brazilian Coffee: Known for its nutty, chocolatey, and mild flavour with low acidity, Brazilian coffee is smooth and easy on the palate.

Colombian Coffee: Well-balanced with a mild acidity, Colombian coffees often feature notes of caramel, nutty tones, and a touch of sweetness.

Central American Coffees: Featuring medium acidity and flavours like cocoa, caramel, and hints of fruit, Central American coffees offer a pleasant and straightforward taste.


Unique flavours and Origins

Once you've mastered easy drinkers, it's time to venture into adventurous coffees. Here's what to look for:

Unique Origin: Seek out coffees from regions with distinctive growing conditions, such as high-altitude micro-lots or volcanic soils, for unique flavour profiles.

Unusual Processing Methods: Explore coffees processed using innovative methods like natural (sun-dried), honey-processed, or anaerobic fermentation for stand-out flavours.

Exotic Tasting Notes: Look beyond the usual descriptors for tasting notes that are fruity, floral, spicy, or even savoury. Think tropical fruits, berries, jasmine, or hints of herbs and spices.

Rare Varietals: Experiment with rare or heirloom coffee varietals for unique and intriguing flavour characteristics not commonly found elsewhere.

3fe-Coffee-Roaster.png#asset:36475

Final Steps

Check Freshness and Quality: Opt for freshly roasted beans to ensure maximum flavour and aroma. Look for roast dates on the packaging and choose beans roasted within the past few weeks.

Purchase from reputable roasters known for their quality and ethical sourcing practices.

Select Your Quantity: Determine how much coffee you consume regularly and buy accordingly. Consider purchasing smaller quantities initially to ensure freshness and prevent waste.

Grind Your Beans Fresh: Invest in a good quality grinder if you're buying whole beans. Grind your coffee just before brewing for the freshest taste.

Brew and Enjoy: Experiment with different brewing methods to find what suits your taste best. Whether it's a drip machine, French press, pour-over, or espresso, each method can bring out different flavours in your coffee. Take your time to savour the aroma and flavours of your freshly brewed cup.


By following this guide, you'll be well-equipped to purchase coffee beans that suit your taste preferences and brewing style. Whether you prefer the familiar comfort of a blend or the excitement of an adventurous single origin, there's a world of flavour waiting to be explored in every cup of coffee. So go forth and explore our coffee list now you are equipped with the knowledge of how to buy coffee beans!


You can find our range of coffee in any of our cafe locations, or shop online knowing we have you covered with fast shipping directly to you door.


FAQs

1. Why should I consider buying coffee blends?

Coffee blends make for an easier and versatile option for brewing coffee. We craft combinations of different coffee beans with the goal of creating a consistency in taste, & balanced flavours. By omni roasting our coffees they are suitable for all brewing methods. Whether you're using a French press, V60, Chemex, or espresso machine, our blends will give you a consistent enjoyable cup every time.

2. What are some advantages of exploring single origin coffees?

Single origin coffees allow you to experience the unique flavours and characteristics specific from a particular region. Starting with easy-drinking options from regions like Brazil, Colombia, or Central America provide a gentle introduction to coffee, helping you understand your palate and appreciation for different flavour profiles. Coffee from different regions will have different taste profiles, so brew as many as you can!

3. How can I venture into unique flavours and origins in coffee?

To explore unique flavours and origins in coffee, look for beans sourced from regions with distinctive growing conditions. Experiment with innovative processing methods like natural, honey-processed, or anaerobic naturals to discover stand-out flavours. Seek out tasting notes beyond the usual descriptors and try Aji or Gesha varieties for intriguing flavour characteristics. Don't be scared to try a coffee from a region you haven't tried before.

4. What factors should I consider when purchasing coffee beans for freshness and quality?

When buying coffee beans, prioritize freshness by selecting beans roasted within the past few weeks. Check for roast dates on the packaging and purchase from reputable roasters known for their quality and ethical sourcing practices. Consider buying smaller quantities initially to maintain freshness and prevent waste.

5. Why is grinding coffee beans fresh important, and how can I achieve it?

Grinding coffee beans fresh before brewing is essential for preserving their flavour and aroma. Investing in a good quality grinder allows you to grind your coffee just before brewing, ensuring the freshest taste possible. Freshly ground coffee enhances the overall coffee experience by maximizing flavour extraction and aroma.

6. What are some tips for brewing and enjoying coffee at home?

Experiment with different brewing methods such as drip machines, French presses, pour-overs, or espresso makers to find what suits your taste best. Take your time to savor the aroma and flavours of your freshly brewed cup. Whether you prefer blends or single origins, there's a world of flavour waiting to be explored in every cup of coffee.