What is the history and origin of coffee?
According to legend, an Ethiopian shepherd named Kaldi became aware of the effects of caffeine. He observed that his goats became playful and energetic after eating coffee cherries. Coffee beans come from a genus of flowering plants called Coffea. Their seeds are used to make coffee. All coffee in the world grows in the Equatorial/Subtropical regions, also known as the Bean Belt. The main coffee growing regions are Central and South America, Indonesia, and Africa.
What is the difference between Arabica and Robusta coffee?
Espresso Republic only uses Arabica coffee. Arabica coffee is a higher-grade coffee and it is consumed by 70% of the world. Robusta coffee is a lower grade coffee but has 50% more caffeine than Arabica. It is consumed by 30% of the world.
What is the difference between “washed” and “natural processed” coffee?
Washed coffee is a wet method that results in bright clean flavors. The stages in processing include depulping the coffee cherries, putting the coffee in fermentation tanks to loosen the remaining fruit, and drying the coffee. Natural processed is a dry method that results in a sweeter taste. The stages in processing include drying the cherries with the flesh of the fruit and then removing the seed by Millstone or hand-hulling the coffee.
What is a varietal?
A coffee varietal is also known as the “species” of the coffee plant. There’s a multitude of coffee varietals such as Bourbon, Caturra, Catuai, Gesha, Pacamara, Typica, etc. These coffee varietals have their own characteristics: some vary slightly in shape and size, some of them require more attention and care, and some grow better in certain altitudes. Some varietals are mutations of another depending on the growing environment. We find it interesting that there are more and more varietals that arise over time, and it makes specialty coffee much more interesting.
What are single-origin coffees and why do they matter?
Single-origin coffee is sourced from a specific area or region in various countries. These origin names are derived from a particular farm(s) or small group(s) of neighboring farms. Single-origin coffees are unique because the characteristics of the regions’ soil, altitude, climate, etc. all influence the flavor of the beans giving each brew nuanced flavors and a distinctive taste that captures the uniqueness of their origins. We highly encourage you to try the unique flavors of the single origin coffees we offer.
What is the "coffee bloom" during brewing, and why is it important?
The coffee bloom refers to the initial phase of the brewing process when hot water is poured over freshly ground coffee grounds, and the coffee bed begins to release gases. This release of carbon dioxide is commonly visible as a bubbling or foaming on the surface of the coffee grounds. The bloom occurs because freshly roasted coffee beans retain carbon dioxide, which is a byproduct of the roasting process.
What is the best way to measure/dose coffee?
We strongly recommend using a scale to dose your coffee each brew. Weighing your coffee and water can help you maximize all the wonderful flavors of your favorite Espresso Republic coffee(s).
What is the best way to store Espresso Republic coffee?
For optimal freshness, we suggest storing Espresso Republic coffee at room temperature in an airtight container or in the original Espresso Republic re-sealable coffee bags your favorite coffee(s) came in, which are designed with one-way degassing valves and zipper seals to maintain freshness. Do not store your coffee in the refrigerator or freezer. Storing coffee in the refrigerator or freezer is probably one of the biggest coffee myths commonly circulated. Storing coffee in the refrigerator or freezer can cause condensation creating moisture. Moisture is coffee’s enemy and will negatively affect the coffee’s flavor.
How should I grind my coffee?
To brew a delicious cup of coffee, you need to choose the right grind size. If you grind too fine, your brew can over extract and have a bitter taste. However, if you grind too coarse, the coffee may not extract enough and will taste thin and possibly sour. Experiment with your grinder and brew method to see what you like. There is also a grind chart you can access in each coffee information page (before you buy) OR simply click on the link below.