Last week, we hosted an extraordinary coffee workshop, part of our ongoing "Meet with Coffee" series. This session brought together a small group of coffee enthusiasts eager to dive deep into the world of specialty coffee. It was a memorable experience, filled with learning, tasting, and interactive experiments.
The participants, an amazing group of curious minds, were particularly intrigued by the nuanced world of specialty coffee. We explored beans from three distinct regions: Brazil, Costa Rica, and Peru, each offering a unique flavor profile. Among these, we highlighted a Gesha from Peru, a microlot from Costa Rica, and an unconventional, funky Brazil. The Costa Rican microlot was the crowd favorite, impressing everyone with its bright, clean flavor.
To enhance their understanding of coffee quality, I demonstrated how to use a TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) tester. The participants were surprised by the results when we tested the bottled water they had brought with them, highlighting the importance of water quality in brewing.
A fun sensory experiment with jelly beans followed, where participants were asked to close their eyes and nose while tasting. This simple exercise illustrated how our senses work together to perceive flavor, much like in coffee tasting.
We also discussed the pivotal role Erna Knutsen played in the specialty coffee industry, a name every coffee lover should know. Her contributions have shaped the industry, emphasizing quality and sustainability.
For the brewing demonstrations, we used the Clever Dripper, which is always a hit for its simplicity and effectiveness. However, we also experimented with the AeroPress, giving everyone a taste of the versatility in coffee brewing methods.
I brought along examples of differently fermented coffee cherries to show the participants. This hands-on experience allowed them to better understand the complex processes that go into creating their favorite drink.
Our three-hour workshop was both educational and engaging, with a group size of just six to seven participants, ensuring personalized attention. It was an opportunity not just to taste great coffee, but to truly appreciate the craft behind it.
If you’re a coffee lover who’s ever wondered about the secrets of your morning brew, our next “Meet with Coffee” workshop is for you. We promise you’ll leave with new knowledge, new tastes, and maybe even a new favorite coffee. Plus, each participant will receive a starter set, including coffee scales and a pouch of our finest coffee, to continue your exploration at home.
Join us, and unlock the secrets of specialty coffee in a fun and interactive environment. We look forward to brewing with you!