Do you start your day with a big cup of joe?

Coffee is the second most consumed beverage in the world (tea is the first). However, maybe you have never been able to get into it? Perhaps you find yourself confused over the world’s obsession with the beverage?

Nonetheless, maybe you want to give it a try? Maybe you’re not sure of where to get started? If so, you’ve arrived at the right article.

Below, we’re going to discuss what it is to be a coffee connoisseur. We’re also going to provide you with a wealth of information on coffee so that you can understand what’s available to you. Let’s get started!

What is a Coffee Connoisseur?

A coffee connoisseur is a person with a deep interest in coffee. Such a person can often be called a coffee expert, as he or she possesses a knowledge of coffee that the everyday person flat out doesn’t possess.

Connoisseurs of coffee study the origins of coffee, the history of coffee, the types of coffee, and the brewing of coffee in an attempt to garner a full understanding of the beverage. Such individuals are not fully satisfied with a cup of coffee from McDonald’s or Speedway. They treasure quality in their coffee and appreciate what it takes to make a great cup.

The History of Coffee

If you’re going to be a connoisseur of coffee, you’re going to need to know a little something about its history.

Coffee got its start in the 15th century, originating in Ethiopia. From Ethiopia, it traveled up toward the Arabian Peninsula. It was in the Arabian Peninsula where coffee really started to take off, resulting in the daily consumption of coffee as well as in the opening of coffee houses.

Eventually, the beverage would make its way to Europe. It was in Europe that the beverage first became known as a breakfast drink.

In the 17th century, coffee was brought west, arriving in both South America and North America. It slowly became the drink of choice for many Americans.

While coffee was grown only in Ethiopia and Arabia until the late 1600s, it is now grown just about everywhere where it is environmentally able to grow. These days, Brazil is the #1 producer of coffee.

Coffee Roast Types

Before they’re roasted, coffee beans are green and lacking in taste. It takes roasting to bring out the color, smell, and taste of coffee beans.

In general, coffee is roasted to meet one of the following classifications. You should note, however, that there are also hybrid roasts available (ie. light-medium, medium-dark, etc.).

Light

Possessing a light brown color, light roast coffee is characterized by a lack of oil. This coffee has an inviting taste, one which could aptly be described as mellow.

Light roasted coffees are generally very flavorful, sporting flavors that instantly jump out at you.

Medium

Medium roast coffee is a brown and oily coffee that is extremely well-rounded in terms of flavor. Possessing an almost sweet taste, these drinkable coffees are fairly low on acid.

Those who drink medium roast coffee like a mild taste that is not too offensive in any sense. They shy away from the bitterness of dark coffee, and the acidity of light coffee.

Dark

Dark roast coffee is described by many as having a bitter taste. This is due to the fact that it is roasted for such a long time.

With dark roast coffee, the roasting process continues until the beans are almost burnt. For some individuals, this over-roasted effect can be too strong.

Dark roasted coffees are served both by themselves and with other beverages. When mixed with chocolate or caramel, they are capable of producing some much sought-after tastes.

Ground Coffee Beans or Whole Coffee Beans?

Coffee beans are packaged and distributed in one of two ways: ground and whole. While both types of beans have their perks, it is highly recommended that you opt for whole beans.

Ground coffee beans are simply formerly whole beans which were ground up for easy use and consumption. They are a great option if you’re trying to drink your coffee in a hurry and are often sold by mass distributors such as this company. However, they often go stale and don’t possess the natural tastes associated with whole beans.

Whole beans hold on to their natural flavors and aromas much longer than do ground beans. Because of this, they can usually be stored for long periods of time without losing any of their value.

Popular Coffee Beverages

There are a number of different types of coffee beverages available, all of which contain their very own tastes and aromas. Below, we’re going to discuss some of the most popular types of coffee beverages.

Espresso

An extremely strong type of coffee, espresso is made with strong, black beans. These beans are ground, and then met with hot steam which is forced through them.

In most cases, espressos are consumed as “shots”. These are small glasses which can be consumed rather quickly.

Latte

A very popular beverage, lattes consist of steamed milk and espresso. These beverages are on the mild side, weaker than both cappuccinos and macchiatos. Often times, additional flavors will be added to lattes, including pumpkin, apple, caramel, and much more.

Cappuccino

A cappuccino consists of frothed milk and espresso. The milk in a cappuccino is frothed with the use of high-pressure steam. Cappuccinos are weaker than macchiatos but stronger than lattes.

Macchiato

Macchiatos consist of a shot of espresso as well as a very small bit of frothed milk. These beverages are just a small bit weaker than pure espressos and are much stronger than both cappuccinos and lattes.

In Search of More Interesting Information?

By applying the knowledge you’ve just garnered, you can become a successful coffee connoisseur. Now all that’s left to do is to get out there and start trying different types of coffee.

Are you in search of more interesting information? If so, you’re in the right place. Lateet has tons of useful information on everything from travel, to lifestyle, to careers, to law, and more.

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