Coffee characteristics: what makes it unique?

Have you ever wondered why one coffee tastes so different from another? The answer lies in the characteristics of the coffee . From the origin of the bean to the cup, a number of factors influence its quality and taste. Together, this makes every sip of coffee something new to discover.

In this article, you'll explore the key characteristics that make a coffee truly special. You'll travel from growing to roasting. You'll learn the subtle differences between different types of coffee beans. and how to select the one that best suits your tastes.

Discover the secrets that make coffee such a popular drink around the world.

Learn about the factors that influence the characteristics of coffee

What makes one coffee exceptional and another just good? The answer lies in a series of intrinsic characteristics of the coffee bean . These are influenced by various factors, from its geographical origin to the processing method.

The origin of the bean: the key to the characteristics of coffee

Coffee is an agricultural product that reflects the unique characteristics of the place where it is grown. This has a significant impact on its taste. Therefore, the coffee terroir, that is, the combination of climatic, geological and soil factors where the coffee plant lives , influences the development of the coffee's characteristics .

There are thousands of coffee varieties, the most well-known being Arabica and Robusta. Each variety has distinctive characteristics in terms of flavour, aroma and caffeine content. For example:

Altitude. Beans grown at higher altitudes tend to develop more complex and delicate flavours, with floral and fruity notes.
Climate. Temperature, humidity and rainfall all influence the ripening of the grain and the development of its aromatic compounds.
Soil. The composition of the soil provides essential nutrients to the coffee and determines its flavour.

For example, the Mexican terroir , with its volcanic soils and varied climates, influences the characteristics of coffees. For example, coffees grown in the high mountains of Chiapas tend to have more complex and delicate notes.

Cultivation and its importance in coffee

Coffee farming is a task that requires great care and knowledge. Growing productive, healthy and strong plants requires a lot of attention to several variables that directly influence the quality of the bean. Here are the details (Perfect Daily Grind, 2019a):

Growing under shade helps to obtain better quality grains. This is because the trees protect the crop from the sun during the dry season and lower temperatures.
It is also important to know the traceability or origin of the coffee seed used in the plantation to support the proper development of the coffee plant.
In addition, it is important to take care of soil management. This process includes everything from nutrition and weed management to disease and fungus prevention.
Finally, coffee trees must be pruned and re-pruned periodically to have strong and healthy plants.

Processing: the transformation of the bean into coffee

Once harvested, the coffee beans must be processed to remove the pulp and mucilage that covers them.

There are two main processing methods:

A natural process, where the beans are dried in the sun with the pulp attached, which gives the coffee more fermented and fruity flavors.
A washed process, when the beans are pulped and fermented before being dried. This results in a coffee with cleaner, brighter flavors.

The importance of freshness

Coffee, like other foods, is a perishable product. As time passes, roasted beans release gases that were generated during the roasting process and begin to oxidize. This oxidation causes the loss of some characteristics of the coffee such as aromas and flavors, as well as the development of rancid flavors.

Therefore, freshness is essential to enjoy quality coffee.

How to store coffee to preserve its freshness

To get the most out of your coffee, it is essential to store it properly. For example (Perfect Daily Grind, 2019b):

Use an airtight, opaque container to protect the beans from oxygen, light, and moisture. Coffee grinders with an airtight compartment are an excellent choice.
Avoid storing coffee in hot, humid places, such as the kitchen or near the stove. A dark, cool cupboard is ideal.
Grinding coffee just before use ensures that you retain all the aromas and flavours. Ground coffee oxidises much faster than whole beans.
The refrigerator is not the best place to store coffee. Humidity and odors from other foods can alter the taste of the coffee.
Pay attention to the roast date of your coffee and consume the beans within the first two weeks to enjoy their maximum flavor.

How to appreciate the characteristics of coffee

To identify and appreciate the characteristics of coffee , we recommend:

Look for coffees from specific regions with unique characteristics. Why? These tend to offer more defined and complex flavor profiles.
Pay attention to the roasting date, as this will preserve its aromas and flavors for longer.
Grind the beans just before preparing the drink, as this is when the essential oils and aromas are released. This ensures a fresher and tastier cup.
Experiment with different brewing methods, as each enhances different characteristics of the coffee . Try espresso, filter, French press or pour over to find out which one suits your tastes best.
Participate in a coffee tasting session to learn more about the aromas, flavors, and body of each of your cups. By developing your palate, you will be able to distinguish the subtle differences between different coffees and select the ones you like best.
Find a trusted roaster who can offer you a wider variety of coffees and provide detailed information about each origin.

Ultimately, the characteristics of coffee are a world to discover. Each cup is a unique experience, shaped by factors such as origin, roast and preparation. Now that you know these secrets, you can enjoy your favorite cup like never before! Why not try new origins and roasts? Your palate will thank you!