'WHAT'S THE POINT OF TASTING NOTES? IT'S JUST COFFEE!'

We get it; tasting notes can seem like a bit of fluff, or roasteries trying to sound different, but really, they are integral to the sensory process.

Tasting notes act as a navigation tool for choosing coffees that suit your palate or brewing method, without having to purchase blind.

We might say a coffee tastes of banana, but you end up with papaya, and that’s ok! The notes help guide you on flavour intensity, sweetness, acidity and more, and the more curious you get, the more your palate develops.

HOW BREW METHODS AFFECT TASTING NOTES

ESPRESSO

Concentrates flavour, adds sweetness and body. Chocolate and caramel notes become rich and intense, whilst fruits are jammy or syrupy.

Discover our Espresso brew guide

CAFETIERE

Produces a fuller body and more muted acidity. Gives fruity coffee more rounded, earthier undertones.

Discover our Cafetiere brew guide

FILTER / V60 / POUR OVER

Opens up clarity and brightness. Lighter, more nuanced notes (florals, citrus, stone fruit) become more distinct.

Discover our Pour Over brew guides

AEROPRESS

Versatile, mimics espresso-style intensity or a cleaner filter depending on variables. Great for experimenting.

Discover our Aeropress brew guide

TEST OUT YOUR PALATE

CHOCOLATE AND CARAMEL

Warm, sweet, and approachable, the gateway to speciality coffee.

Try Goldstone, Brazil Pocos, or Blue Note.

FRUITY / STONE FRUITS

Layered and warming, it rewards slower brewing and attentive sipping.

Try Ethiopia Lima, Summer Punch, or Kenya Asali.

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