1. Preparation:
Buy fresh coffee:
Investigate various coffee sources, including local roasters and specialty shops. Knowing the origin and roasting process can help you make more informed choices.
Grinding:
Experiment with different grinder settings to get the best result for each brewing method. Also consider variables such as grind thickness and coffee-to-water ratio.
Preparation:
Try different brewing methods and adjust parameters such as temperature, extraction time and coffee-to-water ratio to achieve the desired taste profile. Also consider the influence of factors such as altitude and humidity on the brewing process.
2. Tasting:
Visual appearance:
Pay close attention to the appearance of the coffee, including crema, clarity and consistency. Also look for uniformity of color and the presence of features such as "tiger" or "streaking," which may indicate even or uneven roasting.
Smell:
Use a special glass to concentrate the flavors and analyze them in depth. Identify base flavors and secondary flavors, as well as floral, fruity, grassy or spicy notes.
Taste:
Experiment with various tasting techniques, including sucking air to aerate the coffee in your mouth and release the flavors. Identify the underlying and subtle flavors, but also pay attention to overall balance, coffee body and acidity.
Aftertaste:
Evaluating the duration and evolution of the aftertaste can provide clues to the complexity and quality of the coffee. Also note any changes or evolutions in taste as the coffee sits in your mouth.
Retrospection:
Analyze the tasting experience in detail, considering every aspect of the coffee and the brewing process. Make connections between perceived aromas and tastes and coffee characteristics, including origin, variety and roasting process.
3. Additional observations:
Taste profile:
Try to identify and describe the coffee's flavor profile as accurately as possible, including base aromas, dominant and subtle flavors, acidity, sweetness, bitterness, and body.
Kissing (slurping):
Practice the "slurping" technique to effectively extract the flavors and assess the texture of the coffee in your mouth. This technique involves sucking in coffee and air at the same time to cover the entire oral cavity.
Research and experimentation:
Be open to constantly exploring new varieties, regions and preparation methods. Document your experiences and share them with other coffee enthusiasts to improve your knowledge and skills.
Detailed notes and records:
Systematically record observations and impressions from each tasting session to track your progress and identify patterns or personal preferences in coffee tastes.
By applying these advanced coffee tasting techniques and principles, you will significantly develop the ability to deeply appreciate and understand the complexity and diversity of the coffee world. Be patient and open to exploration and you will always discover new fascinating aspects of this rich and delightful drink.