A tantalizing cup of coffee is a result of a fascinating journey that begins in remote coffee farms and ends in your mug. In this blog post, we are going to shed light on the intricate processes of the coffee supply chain, from the cultivation of the crops all the way to the brewing of the final product.
Cultivating great quality coffee demands both great attention and favorable climate. The beans are largely grown in tropical regions within 30 degrees of the equator and at high altitudes, where the climate is ideal: warm with a decent level of humidity and rain.
Harvesting is a delicate task that is mainly done by hand. The cherries are carefully picked once they're ripe enough to produce the rich flavors associated with coffee.
Post-harvesting, the beans are extracted from the cherries, a process known as pulping. After the beans are detached, they are left to ferment in water tanks, a process that may take up to 3 days. Following the fermentation process, beans are washed and sun-dried.
Roasting transforms the green coffee beans into the aromatic, flavor-rich beans we love. The beans are heated in a roasting machine a process where they expand and change in color, taste, smell, and density. Roasting degrees vary, from light to dark roast, influencing the taste, acidity, and body of the coffee.
The freshly roasted beans are then ground according to brewing methods. A finer grind is used for espresso-based drinks whereas a medium to coarse grind is suitable for pour-over or French press brewing. The grinding process must be done shortly before brewing to enjoy the optimal taste.
The final stage is brewing the coffee, adding hot water to the ground beans and using your choice of a coffee machine or manual pour-over equipment. The methods of brewing vary from person to person, adapting to individual taste preferences.
The journey of coffee from bean to cup is an intricate fusion of art and science. Each process impacts the flavor, aroma and body of the coffee. From the careful picking of ripe cherries to the aromatic process of roasting, it’s truly a labor of love. It not only gives us a deeper appreciation for the cup of coffee we hold every morning, but it also showcases the tremendous effort that goes into delivering that perfect cup.
