Coffee tasting is a skillful blend of sensory analysis and expertise, allowing tasters to evaluate and appreciate the unique qualities of each bean. Rather than simply assigning scores, it’s an adventurous journey into a coffee’s aroma, acidity, sweetness, body, and aftertaste—revealing the true character of every cup.
Key Sensory Aspects of Tasting
1. Aroma
‧ Tasting begins with smelling the coffee. Freshly ground coffee releases rich aromas, while the addition of hot water reveals its complexity. For instance, an Ethiopian coffee might burst with floral and citrus notes, whereas a Central American coffee might present warm hints of caramel and nuts.
2. Acidity and Sweetness
‧ Acidity in coffee refers to its brightness and vibrancy, not just its sourness. For example, Kenyan beans often have a bright, fruity acidity reminiscent of blackcurrant or grapefruit. This acidity is pleasant and balanced, rather than harsh. Sweetness, on the other hand, adds harmony to the cup. When well-presented, sweetness complements acidity, creating a more rounded and flavorful profile.
3. Body and Aftertaste
‧ Body describes the texture of the coffee—light and velvety or rich and heavy, like a chocolate milkshake. Aftertaste refers to the lingering flavors that remain after drinking. A great coffee often leaves a long, pleasant aftertaste, enticing you to take another sip.
How Coffee is Scored
Professional coffee tasting involves assigning scores based on several criteria, including aroma, acidity, sweetness, body, aftertaste, and overall balance. These scores help coffee farmers, roasters, and buyers understand the value of a particular bean and guide consumers in choosing the best coffee for their preferences.
For instance, the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) scoring system recognizes coffees scoring above 85 points as “specialty coffee,” indicating a complex and well-balanced flavor profile. Coffees scoring above 90 points are labeled “outstanding,” reflecting unique origin characteristics and exceptional flavor clarity.
The Joy of Participating in Coffee Tasting
Even without becoming a professional cupper, casual coffee tasting can be a delightful experience. Trying beans from different origins, recording notes on their aromas and flavors, and sharing opinions with friends can deepen your appreciation of coffee. Each tasting session becomes a conversation with the beans—a flavorful adventure for your palate.
A Final Sip of Humor
As a character once quipped in An Affair to Remember, “This coffee is stronger than my fate.” While we might not have full control over our destinies, each thoughtful sip of a well-tasted coffee brings us closer to understanding the intricate world of flavor.
