Category: Coffee & Tea Articles

Despite what many may think, espresso is a form of coffee. So the real question becomes, “what makes espresso different from all other brewed coffees?” Price immediately comes to mind when considering this question. Because of its higher cost, espresso has gained a reputation for being a fancier way to get your coffee fix. The expensive machine and skilled baristas may be the driving factors behind the high price. However, besides the price, what is the difference between espresso and all other brewed coffee drinks?

Before highlighting the differences, let’s take a quick step back to learn the history of the two drinks.

What is the History of Coffee?

The history of coffee goes back thousands of years. Over time, roasting and brewing methods have evolved based on the differing tastes in various countries. The early 1800s brought the French Press, while Joseph-Henry-Marie Laurens introduced the percolator later that same century. Because the percolator often produced a bitter-tasting coffee from overcooked grounds, the coffee filter was a welcome invention in the early 1900s.

What is the History of Espresso?

The word “espresso” actually refers to the process used to create the well-known drink. Most believe it originated in Italy, where Angelo Moriondo invented the espresso machine’s first form in the late 1800s. In 1901, Luigi Bezzera made improvements to Moriondo’s creation and patented his device. It became what we now know as the espresso machine.

Again, Let’s Reitirate that Espresso is a Type of Coffee.

If you order a coffee (or a caffè) in Italy, the barista will serve you what we know here in the United States as an espresso. A Caffè Americano in Italy is the equivalent to filtered coffee in the U.S.

Espresso is an intense form of coffee, served in shots. Many coffee drinks use espresso as a base. These drinks, likely served at your favorite local cafe, include lattes, cappuccinos, mochas, macchiatos, and americanos. Over the years, cafes created many other creative espresso-based coffee drinks to satisfy the varying tastes of coffee fans. 

There are no distinctions between beans used to brew espresso and other coffee with regard to growing and processing. They all come from the same coffee plants and go through the same processing methods.

For this article, “coffee” refers to all other types besides espresso.

What is the Difference Between Espresso and Other Coffee Beans as it Relates to Roasting?

Some believe they can make espresso using any type of roast. Most others find darker roasts provide the bolder flavor characteristic of the drink. The “espresso coffee beans” label only indicates they are one of the darker roasts.  Roasters label them as “espresso beans” to indicate they are a favorable choice for brewing espresso. However, these beans can be used to make coffee using other brewing methods. 

The dark roast of “espresso beans” holds up well under the high-pressure espresso process, producing a bold, intense flavor profile. Using lighter roasts in an espresso machine would result in a less flavorful coffee uncharacteristic of espresso.

In summary, there is nothing incredibly unique about the roasting process for what roasters label as “espresso coffee beans”. They are roasted longer than some other coffee beans, but the roasting process does not differ in any other way. It is possible to brew a fabulous shot of espresso using other dark roast coffee beans that aren’t labeled as “espresso beans”.

Are Espresso Coffee Beans Ground Differently Than Other Types of Coffee Beans?

Coffee aficionados reserve the finest ground beans for Turkish coffee. Those who drink Turkish coffee brew it using a powder-like grind. Although it doesn’t have the finest grind, espresso has a finer grind than most other coffees. 

Overall, the ideal grind size is dependent on the brewing method. Espresso’s high-pressure rapid brewing process requires a much finer grind than most other coffees. The goal is to be able to brew espresso between 24 and 30 seconds. Too fine of an espresso grind could cause the filter in the espresso machine to clog. A clogged filter leads to over-extraction, producing bitter tasting espresso. On the other hand, an overly coarse grind could cause the brewing time to be too short. This coarse grind leads to under-extraction, resulting in a weak and sour tasting shot. 

It is possible to brew espresso using a coarser grind, but this is only if another espresso brewing method is used. Details for espresso brewing methods without a machine are outlined later in the article. 

In general, burr grinders are superior to blade grinders because it produces grinds more uniform in size. However, you can more often get away with using a blade grinder for coffee than you can with espresso.

How Does the Brewing Process Differ Between Espresso and Coffee?

The most apparent difference is an espresso machine is usually used to brew espresso. On the other hand, there are numerous ways to brew coffee. The types of coffee brewing methods include drip, pour-over, and immersion. 

When a machine is used to make espresso, boiling steam is forced through fine, tightly packed coffee grounds under high pressure. 

However, as briefly mentioned before, espresso lovers can avoid the machines’ high cost by utilizing a few other brewing methods. Instead of a machine, you can brew espresso using a Moka pot, which works like a steam percolator. The fabulous AeroPress uses hand pressure and a paper filter to produce a concentrated cup similar to an expresso. These alternative methods extract a little less than high pressure steam, but many find them to be affordable, acceptable alternatives.

However, these other techniques do not produce high-quality crema like the high-end machines. Crema gives espresso “fuller flavor and a longer aftertaste”.

You can brew a richly satisfying cup of coffee using multiple methods. This is also the case for espresso. However, many find machines produce an unmatched espresso flavor.

Is Espresso More Caffeinated Than Coffee?

Ounce for ounce, espresso is more caffeinated than coffee because it is highly concentrated. One ounce (one shot) of espresso has an average of 63 mg of caffeine, while one ounce of caffeinated coffee averages 12 to 16 mg of caffeine. However, coffee drinkers do not consume espresso and coffee in comparable amounts. A typical 8-ounce cup of coffee will have around 96 to 128 mg of caffeine – more than a shot of espresso.

Review our blog post on Caffeine Content in Coffee to learn more about what impacts caffeine levels.

Ultimately, the more significant differences between espresso and coffee lie in the grinding and brewing and less on the roasting of the beans. You can make coffee can be made with “espresso roast” coffee beans, and you can brew espresso with dark roast beans not specifically labeled as “espresso”. 

Burman Coffee offers a variety of green coffee beans perfect for dark roasts. Full flavor and body are characteristics of our BCT Espresso Blend. It’s ideal for espresso, cafe americano, or milk-based espresso drinks. For decaffeinated espresso drinkers, Decaffeinated Brazil Sul de Minas- MWP is an excellent option for smooth, rich espresso shots.

Compare the coffee roasters we offer to find the one that meets your needs at a price within your budget.

We also carry the Baratza Sette 270 Coffee Grinder with multiple macro and micro adjust steps to help you find the perfect espresso grind. The Baratza Sette 30 AP is a more economical choice with the AP grinder burr that will give you grinds that work well with any level espresso machine. 

We can help you with the decisions. Contact us, and we will be more than happy to share our coffee expertise with you.

In the most recent annual forecast for 2020/21, the International Coffee Organization estimates over 10.5 million tons of coffee beans will be produced worldwide. A small proportion of these coffee beans will be grown and harvested adhering to fair trade standards. This coffee is known as fair trade coffee. 

When you go to purchase coffee from your local roaster or grocery store, you may notice some packages include fair trade labeling. It’s worth taking the time to understand what those labels mean and ultimately the story behind the coffee.

So, What is Fair Trade Coffee?

Let’s start off by reviewing what the term “fair trade” means. “Fair trade” is an exchange arrangement. This agreement allows producers in developing countries to sell their goods to buyers or companies in developed countries. The purchase is made at set minimum prices.

As part of this agreement, coffee farmers (producers) follow standards set forth by various fair trade organizations. By following these practices, the coffee farmers are able to get fair trade certification. This can be obtained through an organization such as Fairtrade International.

Fair trade standards center around areas such as workers’ rights, land management, and labor practices. For example, fair trade coffee farmers are not allowed to employ child or forced labor. In relation to the environment, participating farmers cannot utilize genetically modified organisms (GMOs). This is in addition to many other environment-friendly practices.

What Are Requirements for Businesses?

As part of this agreement, buyer companies pay a minimum price for the coffee beans. This minimum price allows for some stability for farmers growing a commodity with world prices that can be highly volatile. In addition to this minimum price, coffee farmers are paid a premium. They use this premium to invest in their business, environmental sustainability, and their communities. Certifying organizations such as Fairtrade International set minimum prices and premiums.

Businesses who want to use the Fairtrade label on their coffee products must apply for a license from the organization to do so. Besides coffee, fair trade products include sugar, cocoa, bananas, and cotton, among many other food and non-food products. However, fair trade is most well-established with coffee. It is a highly traded commodity in producing countries. In addition, the need for fair trade among coffee farmers is great. They tend to be smaller producers who would have less clout in establishing prices.

What is the Size of the Fair Trade Coffee Market?

Fairtrade International has shared data (2019) on its member coffee producers. As previously mentioned, Fairtrade International is one of several organizations establishing fair trade standards and administering certifications.

• Fairtrade International’s 582 coffee producer organizations represent 760K farmers. These coffee producer organizations make up about one-third of its total number of producer organizations.
• Latin America and the Caribbean produced the majority (86%) of Fairtrade certified coffee.
• Half of all Fairtrade certified farmers produce coffee.

Another organization, Fair Trade USA has over 800K fair trade coffee farmers in its system. These farmers produced 176 million pounds of fair trade certified coffee in 2018.

Side note: Fair Trade USA broke off from Fairtrade International in 2012 to develop its own standards. Fairtrade International, an umbrella organization, is the largest fair trade certification company. 

What is the Difference Between Fairtrade and Fair Trade Certified Coffee?

All fair trade coffee is not necessarily the same, specifically as it relates to the producer. For example, one of the main differences between Fairtrade and Fair Trade Certified coffee is the latter may have been produced by large scale plantations. On the other hand, Fairtrade Certified coffee was produced by smaller farmers. However, both organizations work to ensure fair wages for workers/farmers, protect the environment, and invest back into the farming communities. 

It’s best to visit Fairtrade International, Fair Trade USA, and other fair trade organizations’ websites to learn more about their standards and the work they do.

What is Direct Trade Coffee and How is it Different From Fair Trade Coffee?

Many larger roasters bypass the certifications from fair trade organizations. Instead, they decide to establish a direct relationship with coffee farmers. Coffee sourced in this manner is known as direct trade coffee. 

While fair trade organizations establish the minimum price paid to fair trade coffee farmers, direct trade relationships focus on quality. In other words, premium prices are directly linked to better quality coffee beans. This can result in higher prices for coffee farmers instead of being tied to a price established by a fair trade organization.

Other possible benefits of direct trade relationships include direct payment from buyers to coffee farmers, more transparency, and traceability. 

Inversely, possible drawbacks are lack of oversight and a continuously evolving definition of “direct trade”.

For example, in many cases, direct trade coffee requires building relationships with independent brokers and importers. Doing so makes it easier to find and transport coffee from overseas. However, many believe coffee sourced in this way should not be considered as direct trade because there is an intermediary involved. 

Whether through fair trade or direct trade, the idea is to ensure coffee farmers are receiving fair compensation for what they produce. In addition, it is important that these fair prices allow them to sustain and continuously improve their operations, environment, and communities.

Burman Coffee’s Relationship with Coffee Farmers

At Burman Coffee, we source many of the green coffee beans we offer directly from farmers in different parts of the world. Although we may not be a fair trade certified buyer, we believe in working with farmers to produce the highest quality green coffee beans. Most importantly, we ensure the coffee farmers we work with are paid fair compensation for their premium specialty coffee.

The following are just some examples of the specialty direct trade coffees we offer in our online store:

All Hawaiian Coffees
All Haitian Coffees*
Bolivian Apolo*
Brazil Primavera
Colombian Café Social
Costa Rican Lajas* (Finca Los Angeles, Finca San Luis)
Dominican Ramirez Estate*
Guatemalan Finca La Esperanza* (Los Cedros, Las Plantas)
Guatemalan Finca Vista Hermosa and Finca De Dios
Indonesian Bali Blue Moon
Mexican Terruño Nayartia (Natural Gr. 1 Reserve, Org. Washed Gr. 1 Reserve)
Nicaraguan Selva Negra
Papua New Guinea Carpenter Estates

(*Sourced via personal coffee industry connections.)

• Learn more about some of our favorite producers: the super-sustainable Selva Negra Estate, the wild and unique Carpenter Estates Group, and the uplifting Terruño Nayarita Co-operative.

We are committed to continually strengthening our valued relationships with coffee farmers. If you have any questions regarding our direct trade relationships or our green coffee bean selection, please contact us.

It’s helpful for decaffeinated coffee drinkers (and those considering becoming one) to understand how decaf coffee is made. When we raise this question, it is regarding the decaffeination process and not how to brew a cup of decaf coffee. There are different processing methods used to extract the caffeine from harvested green coffee beans. 

First of All, Why Do People Choose to Drink Decaffeinated Coffee?

Decaffeinated coffee makes up approximately 12% of worldwide coffee consumption. People may drink decaffeinated coffee for a variety of reasons. Despite going through the decaffeination process, these coffee beans are known to retain most of the antioxidant benefits found in regular coffee. 

However, decaffeinated coffee is the drink of choice for some because they may experience adverse effects from caffeine. Effects can include an overwhelmed nervous system, restlessness, anxiety, heart arrhythmia, or digestive problems. Others choose decaffeinated coffee because caffeine disrupts their sleep or their prescription drugs require a caffeine-free diet.

It’s important to note that decaffeinated coffee still contains small amounts of caffeine. The FDA does not regulate the amount of caffeine that is present in decaffeinated coffee. However, as a general guideline, the FDA likes to see anything labeled as decaffeinated coffee to have at least 97% of the caffeine removed. Decaf coffee can contain anywhere from an estimated 2mg to 13 mg of caffeine. 

So, How is Decaffeinated Coffee Made Using Different Processes?

Decaffeinated green coffee beans are processed in different ways. Listed below are some of the better-known ones.

1. Direct Solvent Decaffeination Method

This process is likely the most well-known decaffeination method. This method was used to create the first batch of decaffeinated coffee beans in the early 1900s.

This process begins with steaming green coffee beans which opens their pores. They are then soaked in a solvent. These days this solvent is either methylene chloride or ethyl acetate. Earlier in history, the solvent used was benzene. However, it was eventually found to be carcinogenic. 

The solvent absorbs the caffeine from the coffee beans. Unfortunately, some of the flavor compounds are also absorbed in the process.

The steaming, drying, and roasting of the decaffeinated beans removes any remaining solvents. 

2. Indirect Solvent Decaffeination Method

Similar to the Direct Solvent Method, and just as the name indicates, a solvent is used to decaffeinate green coffee beans. However, in this method, the solvent does not come in direct contact with the beans. 

Instead of steaming them, the green coffee beans are soaked in hot water where the caffeine and flavor compounds dissolve. After the beans are removed, the solvent is added to this water. The solvent absorbs the caffeine and a small amount of the flavor compounds from the water. 

The water is then separated from the solvent. The green coffee beans are then added back to this water where it can reabsorb the lost flavor compounds. 

After the beans are removed from the water, they are dried and roasted. 

3. Water Processing

High-end or organic coffees typically go through this decaffeination process. The absence of chemicals is what makes this process attractive. 

Similar to the Indirect Solvent Method, Water Processing begins with green coffee beans soaking in hot water. While soaking, the caffeine and flavor compounds are dissolved. 

Also, similarly, the caffeine is extracted from the new solution. However, in Water Processing, the extraction occurs using activated carbon filters and not a solvent. 

These filters remove the caffeine molecules from the solution, leaving the flavor compounds in the water. 

This water is then added to a new batch of green coffee beans. (The original batch is thrown out.) Because this new solution includes flavor compounds, it will not dissolve or remove the flavor from the new batch of beans. Subsequent batches of green coffee beans can reuse this solution. However, it is best used on similar coffee beans so flavors aren’t intermixed.

4. Carbon Dioxide Method

With this decaffeination method, green coffee beans are soaked in highly compressed carbon dioxide. This carbon dioxide is in liquid form and is created from gaseous carbon dioxide under high compression and cool temperatures.

Similar to the Water Processing, the green coffee beans are first soaked in water. The beans are then transferred to an extraction vessel where liquid carbon dioxide is pumped in at a higher pressure level. In this step, the carbon dioxide acts as a solvent and removes the caffeine from the coffee beans. However, it leaves the flavor compounds behind. 

This caffeinated carbon dioxide solution is transferred to an absorption chamber. Once in this container, the pressure is released and the carbon dioxide changes to a gaseous state. As it changes, the caffeine is left behind. The gas form of the carbon dioxide is returned to a pressurized container where it is used again in liquid form on future batches of green coffee beans. 

The Carbon Dioxide Method can be relatively expensive and usually used with very large batches of commercial-grade coffee. However, this method is known to be more selective in the extraction of caffeine molecules over flavor compounds. 

Using any of these decaffeination methods, the resulting coffee not only has less caffeine but it also has less acidity. In addition, some people believe the coffee’s health benefits are stripped away along with some of the flavor. However, when considering the negative effects of caffeine you will avoid, you may not mind the altered flavor. 

When choosing decaffeinated green coffee beans, consider purchasing blends instead of single variety beans. Different varieties will react to decaffeination processes differently. Purchasing a blend will help balance out changes in flavors caused by decaffeination. 

How is Roasting Decaf Coffee Beans Different From Roasting Regular Ones?

Roasting decaffeinated coffee beans can be more difficult for a few different reasons:

1. You can’t rely on the color of the decaf coffee beans as much as you can with regular coffee beans

Different decaffeination processes can result in a variety of green coffee bean colors. After going through decaffeination, the green coffee beans turn into various shades of brown. Therefore, you can’t rely on the color of the beans to determine the stages of roasting or roast levels.

2. When roasting decaffeinated green coffee beans, cracking occurs at a different temperature than regular ones. 

A slow rise in temperatures is important for decaffeinated green coffee beans. However, you will need to rely less on temperature levels to determine roast levels.  Instead, it will be important to pay attention to the sounds during the roast process. The second crack for decaffeinated beans will be softer. 

3. The timing will be different when roasting decaffeinated green coffee beans

During the decaffeination process, these green coffee beans have already gone through the additional stress of expansion (rehydration) and contraction (drying). Therefore, these beans will likely release moisture earlier in the roasting process. This will make the first crack look different for decaffeinated coffee beans than it would for regular ones.

In addition, the time period between the first and second crack will be longer than that of regular coffee beans. This longer time period is related to the recommended slow rise of temperature during the roasting process. 

Burman Coffee offers a great selection of decaffeinated green coffee beans. If you need help selecting decaffeinated coffee based on your personal preferences, please contact us. We would love to help you find the beans to make your perfect cup of decaffeinated coffee.

Nowadays roasted coffee beans come in a dizzying array of flavors. In this case, we aren’t referring to the flavor profiles developed during the growing, processing, and roasting of coffee beans. Flavored coffee beans are created when flavoring oils are added to roasted coffee beans. 

Interestingly, the history of flavored coffee goes back hundreds of years. Long ago Middle Easterners drank their coffee with hints of nuts and spices. Since the peak of the gourmet coffee craze in the 1990s, chemists have been able to develop oils in a diverse assortment of flavors. These flavoring oils are what is most commonly used to flavor roasted coffee beans.

What are the typical ingredients in these flavoring oils?

Just as you would expect, the base of these oils is some type of oil that helps the flavors stick to the coffee beans. Many larger commercial roasters use synthetic oils. However, smaller roasters offering flavored coffee beans may use something more common, such as peanut oil, as the base.

The actual flavor consists of a mixture of chemicals and natural flavors. Examples of natural flavors include vanilla, cinnamon, and cocoa beans. The ability to create such diverse flavors is due in part to the numerous chemical combinations available to create complex flavors. Coffee flavoring oils can include as many as 80 different compounds. As a comparison, most other food flavorings have an average of about ten.

Unless you have a Chemistry degree, you may not recognize most of the ingredients in flavoring oils which can be a bit worrisome. A common ingredient in flavoring oils is the solvent propylene glycol. It is a synthetic food additive that is better than water at dissolving some substances. The Food and Drug Administration considers propylene glycol as “generally recognized as safe.” Therefore, it is a common ingredient in many food products.

However, many are alarmed when they learn propylene glycol is also used in hygiene and cosmetic products. Even more worrisome is that differing quantities are also used in industrial products such as paint and antifreeze.

How Do Commercial Roasters Make Their Flavored Coffee Beans?

After roasting and degassing, these flavoring oils are added to the coffee beans. The oil is sprayed onto the roasted coffee beans while they tumble in a large mixer for an average of 15 to 30 minutes. After the beans are evenly coated, they are allowed to sit for about 30 minutes. This allows the roasted beans to absorbed the flavoring oils.

After learning some basic facts about flavored coffee beans, you may be hesitant to purchase them.

Reasons You Should Think Twice Before Purchasing Flavored Coffee Beans

1. For many commercial roasters, using flavoring oils is a profitable way to use old, stale beans.

The chemicals in these oils not only mask the dull taste of older roasted coffee beans. It also increases their shelf-life. Essentially you could be purchasing low-quality coffee beans covered in synthetic flavoring.

2. Thick oil coating on flavored coffee beans can affect your coffee grinds and grinder.

Because the roasted coffee beans used are likely older, they are less porous. They will not soak up the oils as well as freshly roasted coffee beans. As a result, roasters may use an excessive amount of flavoring oil to coat the coffee beans to ensure the flavors adhere to the beans. 

The layer of oil on flavored coffee beans can affect the grinding process. The oil coating can cause the resulting grinds to be pasty and less powdery. These pasty grinds can build up over time on your grinder blades. This can affect the taste of other coffee beans you may grind in the future.

3. Flavored coffee beans can affect the brewing process as well.

The pasty consistency of the grinds can cause clogging – not allowing water to move freely through the grinds. More than likely, this results in a less than optimal tasting cup of coffee.

4. When using higher quality coffee beans, flavoring oils can overpower its distinct natural flavors.

Many coffee aficionados find adding these oils wastes the efforts invested in the growing, processing, and roasting of high-quality coffee beans. 

5. As previously mentioned, coffee flavoring oils commonly use propylene glycol.

The FDA approved small quantities of propylene glycol to be safe. However, in larger quantities, it can have adverse effects on those with compromised health. Unfortunately, when used as a solvent (as is the case with flavoring oils), it may not be listed as an ingredient on the food packaging. 

More commonly, propylene glycol is known to be a skin and eye irritant. When dealing with this ingredient in large quantities in the manufacturing of flavoring oils, it can pose a health risk for workers.

6. The flavoring oils can affect your coffee’s aftertaste.

Many have found that coffee brewed using flavored coffee beans leaves what has been described as a metallic and bitter aftertaste. This is thought to be a result of the chemicals used to flavor coffee beans. 

If you are looking for natural alternatives to add a hint of flavor to your freshly roasted coffee beans, you can do so using whole spices including vanilla beans, cinnamon sticks, and cocoa beans. Store freshly roasted coffee beans in a storage container with your chosen whole spice. The longer you let it sit the stronger the flavor will be. For example, split vanilla beans in half and mix with freshly roasted beans. Store in a sealed container and allow to sit for at least 24 hours after degassing.

However, to protect the pure taste of high-quality coffee beans, we recommend you start by trying different varieties to find your preferred flavor profile. The Coffee Taster’s Flavor Wheel, developed by World Coffee Research (WCR) and the Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA), is a great tool to help articulate your coffee flavor preferences.

Contact us, and our coffee professionals can help you select coffee beans that fit your preferences. They can direct you to green coffee bean varieties you can roast at home.

View our Ultimate Guide to Home Roasting Coffee Beans to learn more about the roasting process. You can learn how to control some of the resulting flavors in your roasted coffee beans.

Have you discovered and tasted the rewards of home roasting coffee beans yet? Remember, identifying and developing your preferred coffee flavor profile takes time and patience. An important step in this process is degassing your coffee beans. When you purchase roasted coffee beans from your local cafe or grocery store, the bag usually has a degassing valve. However, if you are buying freshly roasted coffee beans from your local roaster or you roast your own coffee at home, you most likely will need to degas the beans on your own.

Before we begin exploring the degassing process, it is helpful to review the coffee roasting process as it relates to gases.

So, Are There Gases In Coffee Beans?

In short, the answer is yes. During the roasting process, gases form within the coffee beans. These gases are primarily made up of carbon dioxide. In fact, carbon dioxide makes up approximately 90% of the gas released. The remaining 10% is comprised of nitrogen, other gases, and volatile compounds.

You may be wondering how carbon dioxide and other gases end up in the coffee beans in the first place. 

A study has shown the Maillard reaction plays an important role in the formation of carbon dioxide during the roasting process. The build-up of the carbon dioxide and other gases is what results in the first crack during the roasting process. As the roasting process continues, some of the gases are released, particularly during the last phase.

Despite this initial release of gases, the majority still remains in the coffee after roasting is complete. This is why home roasters and those who purchase locally roasted beans need to degas their freshly roasted coffee.

Learn more about the Science of Coffee Roasting.

What Does it Mean to Degas Your Coffee?

Degassing your coffee simply means that you are allowing the beans to release the remaining gases after roasting. 

As the beans are removed from the roaster, gases continue to escape. Initially, the gases dissipate more rapidly, but over time the rate significantly decreases. It is estimated that 40% of the carbon dioxide is released within the first 24 hours after roasting. Most of the gas escapes within the first few days after roasting is complete. However, it can continue up to around a couple of weeks.

However, the objective of degassing your coffee is not to have all the gases disappear. The carbon dioxide serves as a barrier of sorts, blocking out oxygen. When the carbon dioxide is released from the coffee beans, it is replaced with oxygen. This process is known as oxidation and eventually will result in stale coffee over time. 

The key is to degas your coffee for an optimal length of time. This will take some practice as it depends on a variety of factors, which we will review.

I’m Eager to Brew My Coffee. Is Degassing Really That Important?

Yes, if your goal is to brew flavorful coffee. 

If coffee is not  properly degassed before grinding, small bubbles will appear during the brewing process. This is because the carbon dioxide repels water. The result is uneven flavor extraction and ultimately coffee with a less than optimal flavor and profile. Some have described the taste as sour.

Taking the time to degas your coffee properly allows the hot water to extract the aromatics and oils from the grinds. It will be worth the wait in flavor. 

To release any remaining carbon dioxide, you can allow your coffee to bloom before brewing. Bloom your coffee grinds by dampening them with a small amount of hot water for a couple of minutes. The hot water will release additional carbon dioxide before you commence with the full brewing process.

It is worth noting there are differing opinions on the foam layer produced by remaining gases. This is specifically as it relates to espresso. On a freshly brewed espresso shot, the foam layer is called crema. The tan-colored (some describe as reddish-brown) crema exits the espresso machine first. It then settles at the top once the brewing process is complete.

For some, a perfect espresso shot includes the right amount of crema. They find that crema gives espresso a fuller flavor and a longer aftertaste relative to drip coffee. On the other hand, too much of it will ruin the espresso’s flavor.

Others find the crema to be overrated and unnecessary. Some experts believe crema can indicate freshness or degree of roast. However, they don’t think it is directly correlated to the espresso’s taste.

Now you have a better understanding of the process.

The Next Step is Learning the Things to Consider When Degassing Your Next Batch of Home Roasted Coffee Beans.

1. Studies Have Shown the Roast Level can serve as an Indicator to the Carbon Dioxide Level in Roasted Coffee Beans.

Darker Roasts were shown to have a higher level of residual carbon dioxide relative to lighter roasts. Residual carbon dioxide is the gas remaining after the roasting process is complete.

2. With Roast Levels Constant, Studies Have Shown that the Speed of Roasting Affects Degassing Rates of Roasted Coffee Beans.

Coffee beans roasted more quickly at a higher temperature tend to degas at a higher rate. This is relative to coffee beans, with the same roast level, that are roasted at a lower temperature over a longer period of time.

3. Grinding Accelerates the Degassing of Coffee.

Grinding the roasted coffee beans results in a higher rate of degassing. One study found a degassing rate as high as 73% within minutes after grinding. This rate compares the carbon dioxide level immediately prior to grinding to the level minutes after. 

The grind size plays a factor in the degassing rate. The study showed the finer the grind size, the higher the rate of degassing.

Prevent carbon dioxide from being released too quickly as it will compromise the fresh taste of your coffee. Protect the freshness by minimizing the time between grinding and brewing your coffee.

Make sure you select an optimal grinder for your home roasted coffee beans.

• Find a variety of high-quality coffee grinders available for purchase with free shipping and one pound of premium green coffee beans included.

4. Several Other Factors Can Have An Effect on Optimal Degassing Time for Coffee.

In addition to roast levels, the optimal degassing time will depend on several things. These include harvesting techniques, processing method, bean size, and your planned brewing method. 

For example, natural (dry) processed coffee beans have been found to take longer to degas than washed beans. With natural processing, the fruit is not removed until the drying process is complete. On the other hand, washed coffee beans have their fruits removed before they are dried.

As previously mentioned, darker roast coffees were found to have a higher level of residual carbon dioxide.

• Try Burman Coffee’s 3-pound Dark Bundle for a selection of three green coffee bean varieties perfect for dark roast.

However, despite having a lower level, lighter roasts need more time to degas compared to darker roasts. This is because lighter roast beans haven’t broken down as much as darker roasts. Therefore, they degas at a slower rate. The longer roasting time of darker roasts results in more tiny cracks from where the carbon dioxide is released. More of these cracks results in a higher rate of degassing.

Learn more about the differences between light and dark roast coffee beans.

Brewing method also plays a factor in how long you should degas your coffee. The following is a rough guideline on degassing times based on your planned brewing method: 

• Espresso machine: 1-2 weeks
• Pour over/filter: 2-7 days
• Aeropress: 2-7 days
• French Press: 2 days

5. Proper Roasted Coffee Bean Storage Will Help With Degassing.

Storing your home roasted coffee beans in proper containers  will ensure they are degassing  while preventing oxidation. 

An ideal coffee bean storage container has a degassing valve. This one-way valve will allow carbon dioxide to be released. The degassing valve also prevents oxygen from entering the container. The carbon dioxide escapes slowly through the degassing valve- it helps push out the oxygen helping the roasted beans from becoming stale. There are other attributes to look for in coffee storage containers including light and moisture protection.

Remember, a small level of carbon dioxide is ideal. It prevents the coffee beans from becoming stale or oxidizing.

There are storage containers that build up pressure to minimize the amount of carbon dioxide that escapes. Increased pressure in the container creates an environment that promotes proper aging.

Vacuum packing has been a popular way to protect roasted coffee beans from light, moisture, and oxygen. However, without a degassing valve, it requires the beans to be completely degassed before storage. Doing so sacrifices much of the aroma and flavor brought on by the aging process of the roasted beans.

• Check out these storage bags with degassing valves to store your home-roasted coffee beans. They are available in a few different sizes.

Degassing coffee is one of several important steps in the home roasting process. To learn more about the home roasting process, visit Burman Coffee Traders’s Coffee Learning Center.

Creating an ideal coffee roast profile includes quite a bit of experimentation. This is particularly the case if you are just starting your home coffee roasting journey. Developing a coffee roast profile ensures the flavors and best attributes of a particular coffee bean are drawn out. Outlined below are coffee roasting defects you may encounter. This may occur as you familiarize yourself with a new roaster and perfect a roast profile.

Baked Coffee is a Coffee Roasting Defect That is Difficult to Recognize.

Baked coffee beans are difficult to visually distinguish from other roasted coffee beans. Therefore, you may not suspect the beans are baked until you drink the coffee. Coffee brewed with baked beans will have a noticeably different taste. It is described as lifeless with hints of oat and grain. Others describe baked coffee beans as having papery or bread-like tastes. These beans have lost their flavors, sugar, and acid during the roasting process.

To understand what causes coffee beans to become baked, roasters need to look to the Rate of Rise (RoR) measurement. ROR measures “the growth rate of the bean temperature over time”. In other words, the measure indicates how quickly the beans’ temperature is changing. 

The key is to avoid an RoR that is too low. Lower RoR’s indicate the coffee beans are taking a longer time to move through the roasting process. When the RoR is low enough it can lead to stalling – when the temperature is not increasing as it should to complete the roasting process. A low enough RoR results in coffee beans roasting longer than they should be (at a lower temperature) before reaching the first crack.

Basically, to avoid baked coffee beans, roast your beans more quickly at a higher temperature. 

Underdeveloped Coffee Beans is an Easier Coffee Roasting Defect to Identify.

When coffee has a green or grassy taste with low acidity, the roasted beans are likely underdeveloped. This coffee roasting defect is sometimes easily identifiable by a lighter outer color. 

In other cases, underdeveloped coffee beans can have a dark outer layer. During the roasting process, the outer layers of coffee beans reach a higher temperature before the inner layers. This uneven rise in temperature could lead to a developed (darker) look while the inner part remains underdeveloped (lighter).

By examining a coffee bean’s inner layers, you can determine if it is underdeveloped. However, be aware that an underdeveloped coffee bean will be difficult to crack open.

When trying to achieve a lighter roast, you can end up with underdeveloped coffee beans. This usually occurs when roasters are overly cautious about over-roasting their beans. Underdevelopment is also common when roasters are perfecting their light roast profiles.

Underdeveloped beans in darker roast coffees have a darker outer layer and a lighter inner layer. This may be the result of uneven roasting temperatures. Raising roasting temperatures at the right times will help minimize underdevelopment in darker roasts. This is a skill that can be perfected with continued practice with your roaster.

Overdevelopment is a Coffee Roasting Defect that Can Occur When Trying to Achieve a Darker Roast.

Overdeveloped coffee beans will be black and oily and produce a burnt and bitter-tasting coffee. Some describe the taste as smoky and liken it to ash or carbon. 

Roasting coffee beans too long will lead to overdevelopment. It does not take much to cross over from a dark roast to overdeveloped beans. 

However, there are some who believe that coffee is either developed or undeveloped. The thought is overdevelopment is an inaccurate term and the beans are just “darker”.

Others view overdevelopment as an “over-roasting” error and therefore consider it a coffee roasting defect.

Scorching is an Easily Identifiable Coffee Roasting Defect.

Burn marks on the flat surfaces of the coffee beans indicate scorching has occurred. Coffee made with scorched beans will have an overpowering smoky/ashy flavor. 

Scorching can occur when the beans are placed in a roaster at a higher than ideal charge temperature. The charge temperature is defined as a roasting machine’s initial temperature before the beans are added. 

Other causes of scorching include a roaster with a slower rotating drum or loading too many coffee beans to a roasting batch. Overfilling a roaster’s drum will prevent the movement of beans and decrease the airflow. 

Essentially, to prevent scorched coffee, make sure the beans are turning over easily earlier in the roast cycle. Monitoring the fan speed will help ensure sufficient bean movement in the roaster.

Tipping is Similar to Scorching.

The visual difference between tipping and scorching is the location of the burn marks. While scorching burn marks are located on the flat surfaces of the bean, tipping marks, as the name indicates, are at the tips or edges. The taste is usually similar to that of scorched coffee.

Tipping is a function of the coffee bean’s shape. At high temperatures, the moisture evaporates from the tips more quickly due to the lower density relative to other parts of the bean. 

Some believe a higher charge temperature causes tipping, similar to scorching. Others think tipping occurs later in the roasting process – during the second crack. Conduction or convection? In other words, is tipping a result of a hot drum or poor air circulation? The answer could be any of the above.  The thought is it’s more about the shape and the inability to withstand the heat at the edges/tips.

Quakers are Identifiable Only After the Roasting Process.

Quakers are not considered a true coffee roasting defect, but can only be identified after the roasting process is complete. Before roasting, quakers look similar to other coffee beans so they are overlooked in the sorting process. These underripe coffee beans are usually caused by poor soil conditions which hinder sugar and starch development. 

After roasting, quakers will remain lighter in color compared to the other roasted beans. Take the time to remove any quakers from your roast before you grind and drink the coffee. If quakers are not removed from the batch, they tend to add a papery or cereal flavor to the coffee.

Burman Coffee Traders would love to help you along your home coffee roasting journey. Please contact us if you have any questions for us. If you are just starting out, our Ultimate Guide to Home Roasting Coffee Beans is a great place to start. 

Preventing coffee roasting defects takes a bit of trial and error. Starting a coffee journal will help you perfect your roasting skills. Learn more about what to track by reading our coffee journaling tips. 

Many coffee aficionados devote a great deal of time and effort to selecting their preferred coffee beans. Some have also invested in equipment to roast their favorite coffee beans at home. Whether they are green or already roasted coffee beans, proper storage is important. We have compiled some information to help you select the right coffee storage containers for your beans.

I have invested enough money in quality beans and roasting equipment. Why do I need to spend additional money on coffee storage containers?

The real question is, “Why would you not?”

If you have already made the time and financial investment to roast high-quality coffee beans, it makes sense to ensure they produce a flavorful cup of coffee you will enjoy.

Roasted coffee beans that are not stored properly can become stale with a musty smell. As a result, stale coffee beans will lose their distinguishing aroma. If you go so far as to brew these beans, it will produce a bitter-tasting cup of coffee. This is likely not your goal when you invest the time and money into your favorite coffee beans.

So, I am convinced I need coffee storage containers for my roasted beans. How will an effective container protect my coffee beans?

Effective coffee storage containers protect beans from heat, light, humidity, and airflow. 

Airtightness is an important aspect to consider when evaluating coffee storage containers. When exposed to air, the oils in the roasted coffee beans begin to evaporate. Prolonged exposure to oxygen is what leads to stale beans and ultimately a bitter-tasting brewed coffee. All the aromatics and acids that produce a flavorful cup of coffee begin to deteriorate when roasted beans are exposed to air.

Coffee storage containers also provide moisture protection for roasted beans. Without proper protection from moisture or humidity, roasted beans can spoil quickly. This is the case because coffee beans will easily absorb and retain moisture when exposed to air. 

Although not as damaging as air and moisture, light can have a negative effect on roasted coffee beans. Therefore a dark coffee storage container is important to protect the beans from light exposure. Overexposing roasted coffee beans to light can result in a flat-tasting cup of coffee. This is due to the breakdown of the chemical compounds that give roasted coffee beans their distinct flavors and characteristics. 

Heat protection is also important in preserving the flavors and aromatics of roasted coffee beans. Heat is a necessary component of the roasting process that brings out the beans’ flavors. However, after they have gone through the cooling process, additional heat will damage the roasted beans’ oils. Selecting the right storage container can help protect your beans from the damaging effects of heat. However, the location of your storage container will have a greater impact on the amount of heat to which your beans are exposed. Store it in a cool location away from direct light.

Can I store green coffee beans in the same type of coffee storage container?

Roasting coffee beans greatly diminishes their shelf life. When roasted and properly stored, many experts find that coffee beans can have a shelf life of up to six weeks. On the other hand, properly stored green coffee beans can last up to a year after being processed.

Similar to roasted ones, green coffee beans should be stored in cool, dry places with little or no direct sunlight. Experts find a darker location at room temperature and with a humidity level of approximately 60% will provide an ideal storage environment for green coffee beans.

Because the storage requirements are similar, green coffee beans can be stored in the same type of coffee storage containers recommended for roasted beans. However, unlike roasted coffee beans, green ones require some moisture to prevent them from drying out. Therefore, it is important, for longer storage periods, to periodically create some air circulation. Do this by uncovering the container and giving it a slight shake. This air circulation will prevent condensation from forming on the beans which could eventually lead to mold growth.

Recommended Coffee Storage Containers

Planetary Design Airspace Stainless Steel Coffee Storage Container

This container comes in 32-ounce and 64-ounce sizes. The stainless steel not only gives it a sleek modern look but will also protect your coffee beans from harmful sunlight. Most importantly, the plunger-like top pushes out any air before it seals the container. This comes in handy as your stored coffee bean supply decreases over time.

In addition, these coffee storage containers contain a one-way valve that allows carbon dioxide to be released without allowing oxygen to enter.

These containers also come in a handful of bright colors to complement any kitchen decor. The ceramic version of this coffee storage container has the same functionality and also comes with an attractive bamboo lid.

Tightvac Coffeevac Storage Container

Unlike the Airspace containers which mimics vacuum sealing, Coffeevac coffee storage containers include a patented vacuum closure system. With the touch of a button, the closure system creates a partial vacuum. The ease of use is a strong attribute of this storage container. Similar to the Airspace containers, these include a valve allowing for the release of carbon dioxide without allowing oxygen to enter.

Be sure to choose a colored version as the clear Coffeevacs will not protect your beans from light. The Coffeevac comes in a variety of colors and sizes to meet your preferences and needs. 

Friis Stainless Steel Coffee Vault

This sturdy stainless steel coffee storage container has a BPA-free polymer lid that creates a seal to keep your coffee beans fresh and flavorful. The lid also includes freshness valves that allow carbon dioxide to escape.

The Friis Coffee Vault comes in a few different colors and is available in 12-ounce and 16-ounce sizes.

Black Plastic Valve Bags

A black plastic valve bag is a very affordable coffee storage container option. The one-way valve in the bag allows for carbon dioxide from degassing to be released while keeping oxygen out. The dark color of the bags ensures the coffee beans are protected from harmful light. These bags are reusable and come in a few different sizes.

---

Once you select the ideal coffee storage container, be sure to keep it in a suitable location. Cool dry places such as pantries and cabinets work well. However, you may prefer to display your selected coffee storage container on your counter because it is too pretty to hide behind closed doors. If this is the case, make sure it is not in direct sunlight or near a heat source such as a stovetop or dishwasher.

For more information about coffee beans and home coffee roasting, visit the Burman Coffee Learning Center.

Teabags have been around since the early 1900s. They were initially invented to offer a convenient way to brew a single cup of tea. Using teabags would allow tea drinkers to avoid the perceived mess of loose leaf teas, and were a convenient way to completely remove tea leaves from the water all at once. This prevented tea leaves from being steeped too long and made it easier to clean the teapot in which the brewing occurred. 

It wasn’t until the 1950s that teabags gained significant popularity; this was the first decade in which convenience products were in high demand. With increased demand, companies began looking for the most economical way to mass-produce single-serving teabags. Nowadays, they are machine produced in large quantities, packaged, and stored in warehouses for longer periods of time. 

Size of Tea Leaf Pieces

Many conventional teabags contain leftovers of dust and “fannings” of picked tea leaves. Fannings are very small pieces that remain after whole and larger pieces of broken tea leaves are sorted. Fannings are used almost exclusively in teabags.

When steeped, broken pieces of tea leaves, relative to whole ones, have already lost at least some of their aroma and essential oils. Fannings have larger surface areas, causing the essential oils to evaporate more quickly than full-size tea leaves. This results in dull or stale teas. The primary benefit of steeping fannings and dust is the convenience of infusing more rapidly. This is beneficial for tea drinkers in a rush. However, it is worth noting that traditional tea preparations put a high priority on not rushing; for example, the careful and quiet preparation of matcha in the famous Japanese “tea ceremony” is centered around a very slow, calming and peaceful process.

When steeped, smaller pieces tend to be more bitter than full leaf teas as more tannins are infused. Tannins are naturally occurring compounds that are found in many plants, especially leaves and unripe fruits. When balanced with other flavors, tannins may contribute to a pleasant taste, but too much will make a tea virtually undrinkable (if you have ever grimaced at the taste of an over-steeped black tea, you know about tannins). 

There are also broken leaf teas at higher grades than fannings. These are labeled “Broken” and are typically not included in conventional teabags. Many “Broken” tea leaves are still very high quality even if they are several steps down from truly whole leaves. It is also worth noting that fannings and dust of high-grade teas can be more flavorful than the whole leaf versions of cheaper teas.

Differences in Caffeine Levels

The larger surface area of the broken tea leaves found in bagged tea results in higher levels of caffeine extraction during steeping. This extraction occurs more quickly than in full-leaf or higher grade teas.

However, there are many factors affecting caffeine levels besides size. These include the variety, whether tips (buds) or stems are used from the plant, and the steeping method. All natural teas, including white, green, and black teas contain caffeine. Rooibos and other herbal infusions are naturally decaffeinated. Teas made with tips/buds (newer leaves) tend to have higher caffeine levels than those made with older leaves or the stem. In addition, tea leaves that have been brewed with hotter water for a longer period of time will produce a more caffeinated cup of tea than those that are steeped with cooler water for a shorter period of time. Considering all the factors affecting caffeine content in teas, it would be inaccurate to make the generalization that conventional teabags produce more caffeine relative to loose leaf teas.

Taste

Teabags purchased from a grocery store will likely have the same flavor profile year to year as they are mass-produced and standardized. Companies producing these bagged teas prioritize cost and consistency. On the other hand, loose leaf teas are processed based on region, and the yearly or seasonal differences due to changes in climate and growing conditions are embraced. These differences may be reflected in the taste and aroma. As a result, loose leaf teas offer a wider range of flavor profiles compared to the dull standardized flavors of teabags found in grocery stores. 

Differences in taste between loose leaf and bagged teas are particularly noticeable with green and white teas. Bagged green and white teas tend to be stale and bitter compared to loose leaf versions. Bagged black tea is thought to produce a decent cup. However, it does not offer the flavor varieties present with loose leaf versions.

It is also worthwhile to note that bagged teas often lose flavor after one steeping while loose leaf teas can be steeped several times to brew flavorful tea.

Health Benefits

The health benefits of tea vary across types. Green, white, and black teas are found to be high in antioxidants, while green and white teas also include catechins and theanine. These compounds provide an array of health benefits. It is thought that bagged tea, with its fannings and dust, provide a much lower level of health benefits. This is due to the essential oils already being lost when the tea leaves were broken into small pieces. In addition, with the mass production of teabags, it is likely they contain highly processed and older tea. Over time, tea loses the potency of health benefits. It is also believed the bag itself filters out some of the vitamins during the steeping process.

Teabag Varieties

The teabag itself contributes to the quality and taste of the brewed tea. Because full leaves will offer more flavor and antioxidants, the size and material of the teabag matter. Conventional teabags are made with paper material that constricts the flow of water. It also prevents tea leaves from expanding to maximize flavor. Often this paper is bleached and can add unwanted chemicals and flavors to the cup.

Open weave sachets address some of the issues with water flow, allowing fuller flavor extraction from the tea leaves. These higher-quality, larger teabags come in pouches, “socks”, and pyramid shapes that can hold full leaf tea or larger broken leaves.

Despite the improvements in teabag types, there is no match to the flavor and aroma produced when steeping loose leaf tea. This can be done directly in the water or using an infuser. Without the restriction of a bag, the extraction of flavors, vitamins, minerals, and aromas from the leaves is maximized. Steeping tea this way gives the larger tea leaf pieces the opportunity to fully expand in the hot water, more so than when any type of teabag is used.

Teabags can be more economical and can offer more convenient steeping and cleanup. However, nothing beats the flavors, aroma, and health benefits enjoyed from steeping loose leaf teas directly in the water. Take the time to try a loose leaf tea that matches your flavor preferences – you won’t be disappointed. Read about the premium selection of freshly sourced teas we offer. If you need help, contact us and we can help you make your final selection. 

Once your premium tea has been delivered, be sure to visit our site to learn how to steep the perfect cup of tea.

Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in 2019 and has been updated to include more coffee gift ideas for the upcoming holidays.

The holidays may look a bit different for us this year. Although we may not be able to gather with many of our friends and family, we can still send out our well-wishes and holiday gifts. In these stressful times, a warm cup of coffee can bring much-needed comfort for many of us. If you do have family and friends who are coffee fans, you will find this updated shopping guide helpful as you seek to bring cheer to your loved ones. In this guide, we have highlighted the top gifts for coffee lovers below. Our guide has been updated and expanded from our coffee gift ideas list from last year.

Home Coffee Bean Roasters Come in a Variety of Sizes and Price Points.

Whether the coffee enthusiasts in your life are seasoned home roasters or have only expressed an interest in home roasting, there is an excellent selection of roasters available.

The Fresh Roast SR 800 Coffee Roaster is an excellent gift choice for those serious about home roasting coffee.

It is a fluid bed coffee roaster described as “easy-to-use” with a quick roasting process. Through convection, fluid bed roasters roast coffee beans more evenly and about twice as quickly as their drum roaster counterparts. The estimated roasting time for this roaster is 10 to 20 minutes, including cooling time.

This roaster’s taller roast chamber gives it a higher bean capacity (six to eight ounces) relative to others. You can increase the capacity even further with the extension tube. Not only can you roast more beans at a given time, but the larger space also allows for better bean rotation. You can purchase the SR 800 Roaster and extension tube as a bundle. 

The nine fan settings and nine heat settings make this roaster highly adjustable and perfect for master roasters. However, the simplified control panel and clean design make it an attractive choice for beginners as well.

The Fresh Roast SR 540 Coffee Roaster offers the same features found on the SR 800 but with a smaller bean capacity and at a more affordable price.

The SR 540 can roast about four ounces (120 grams) of coffee beans in each batch. This model is an improvement on the well-loved SR 500 model. Overall, the Fresh Roast SR 540 is an excellent gift for coffee lovers looking to roast smaller batches of beans.

A High-Quality Coffee Grinder is Key for a Fresh Cup of Coffee, Making it a “Must Have” Gift Idea for Coffee Lovers.

Baratza offers a robust selection of reliable coffee grinders for a wide range of budgets. The most discerning coffee brewers know burr coffee grinders produce the most consistent grinds for various coffees.

The next step up in grinders would include the Baratza Virtuoso+ Coffee Grinder.

Its higher-performing burr set justifies the higher price. The burr set in this grinder provides a clean cup of coffee with less powder throw off by cutting instead of smashing the beans. It also includes a digital interface allowing for easy time-based dosing. 

Baratza also offers the Sette Series of grinders. These grinders provide the following: 

• Straight-through bean transport and grinding, allowing for increased efficiency and less coffee residue left in the machine.
• Double to triple grinding throughput relative to comparable grinders.
• The efficient torque transfer leads to lower power consumption.

Two options in this series are the Baratza Sette 30 AP and Baratza Sette 270.

The Sette AP, the more affordable option of the two, offers 30 steps of macro adjustment.

Whichever Baratza grinder you choose for your coffee fan, you can be confident you will be gifting a high-quality device with a powerful but quiet motor and well-constructed gearbox.

The Chemex Coffee Maker is an Exquisite Gift for Those Who Appreciate Both Flavorful Coffee and Minimalistic Design.

There is something about brewing your coffee in an elegantly designed coffee maker. If you are looking for gifts for coffee lovers who have graceful style, the Chemex 10 Cup Coffee Maker may be a fitting option. Selected by the Illinois Institute of Technology as one of the 100 best-designed products of modern times, the Chemex Coffee Maker can create the perfect cup of coffee when used with Chemex-Bonded Coffee Filters. The high-quality non-porous glass used in this simple but elegantly designed coffee maker does not retain odors or chemical residues. This glass ensures a clean, flavorful taste that isn’t tainted by previous batches of coffee brewed with different coffee grinds. The size of the Chemex 10 Cup Coffee Maker is the perfect gift for the elegant coffee lover who enjoys sharing a cup of coffee with friends. 

This video walks you through the process of brewing coffee with a Chemex Coffee Maker.

A Water Kettle Pairs Well With the Chemex Coffee Maker or a Tea Bundle.  

A Nesco Electric Water Kettle is the ultimate gift for coffee lovers who enjoy the pour-over method of brewing coffee. They boil water faster than a microwave, saving coffee drinkers precious time in their usually hectic mornings. As an added bonus, these water kettles use half the energy of stovetops. The basic Nesco Electric Water Kettle comes with a removable and easy to clean water filter and built-in cord storage in the base. Nesco’s Variable Temperature Electric Water Kettle has all the features of the basic model, but with the added feature of variable temperature settings – Boil, 200°, 190°, and 175°.

Those coffee fans who also enjoy a cup of tea every now and then will appreciate a gift combination that includes a Nesco Electric Water Kettle with one of several premium tea bundles we offer. See the ones we have highlighted a little farther in this guide.  

A Selection of High-Quality Green Coffee Beans Will Be a Much-Appreciated Gift for the Coffee Lover on the Home Coffee Roasting Journey.

A few pounds of green coffee beans is an excellent gift idea alone or as a complement to other coffee-related items. The 3-lb Popular and Special Bundles offer a variety of tastes to the coffee drinkers on your list who enjoy home roasting. The Popular Bundle includes coffee beans harvested in Colombia, Guatemala, and Mexico. The Guatemalan beans in this bundle are easy to roast, making them an excellent choice for less experienced home roasters. The Colombian and Mexican coffee beans produce a fuller-bodied coffee.

The Special Bundle includes green coffee beans from Ethiopia, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica. All three of these varieties offer some degree of sweetness and fruitiness. This Bundle is a great option for those coffee drinkers/roasters who enjoy the taste of medium roast blends. 

Either Bundle will be a well-appreciated gift for coffee lovers. While you are at it, order a bundle or two for yourself so that you can compare notes on taste and roast levels with the coffee fans in your life. 

People’s Affinity Towards Coffee Doesn’t Preclude Them From Being Tea Fans as Well.

Many coffee enthusiasts are loyal to coffee and coffee alone. However, there are still others who drink both coffee and tea. A tea gift set is an excellent option for these people who are fans of both. 

The convenience of conventional teabags may be tempting. However, the taste of loose leaf tea is superior.  Learn more about the advantages loose leaf teas have over traditional teabags.

We have a diverse selection of tea samplers from which to choose. Each of the following tea samplers come with six ounces of tea in total – two ounces of each of the three varieties.

1. The Flavored Tea Bundle includes blends of the classic varieties: Earl Grey Blue Mallow Blossom Black Tea, Jasmine Special Grade Green Tea, and Moroccan Mint Green BCT Blend. 

1. The Pacific Tea Bundle consists of traditionally hand-produced green teas from Japan and Taiwan. The bundles include the following premium green teas: Green Dragon Oolong Tea, Sincha – Okumidori Cultivar, and Organic Roasted Kukicha Twig Tea.

3. The China Bundle highlights the traditional methods used to create a variety of teas. This sampler bundle includes “Dragon Well” Organic Special Green Tea, “Grand Keemum” Black Tea, and Lemon Ginger Flavored White Tea.

4. For those tea drinkers with an infinity for the assortment of tastes from India’s regions, the India Bundle may be a perfect choice. This sampler includes the following premium teas: Masala Chai Flavored Black Tea, Assam Black Tea, and Holy Detox Healing Blend Herbal Infusion.

To complete your gift, include a tea ball with the tea sampler bundles. This simple stainless steel mesh ball can hold enough tea to make a large mug of tea or small pot. 

A Home Coffee Roasting Reference Book Can Give Coffee Fans Confidence to Pursue Their Interest in Coffee Roasting.

A Well-Made Coffee Growler is the Perfect Gift for Coffee Lovers Looking to Keep their Brewed Drink Fresh and Hot (or Cold).

Add a Personal Touch to Your Coffee Gifts by Using Burlap Coffee Bags.

Are you looking to add a personal touch to gifts for the coffee lovers in your life? Recipients will find it touching that you spent the time to create a handmade gift. An item made from a burlap coffee bag can be an affordable gift they will treasure. Whether it’s an apron, a pillow, or some wall art, your handmade gift for the coffee lover on your list will help them express their affinity for the brewed drink. Remember, the burlap coffee bags available for purchase will undoubtedly have imperfections, but they will add to the charm and authenticity of your handmade creations.

Gift Certificates Give Recipients the Freedom to Choose Based on their Personal Preferences.

If you aren’t quite sure what the coffee fan on your gift list would prefer, gift certificates are a great option to consider. They can redeem gift certificates whenever it is most convenient for them. It gives them the chance to peruse the available options online and decide which green coffee beans they prefer or which roasting, grinding, or brewing equipment they are ready to try.

Burman Coffee Traders offers gift certificates in the following denominations: $10, $25, $50, and $100. 

You can find all these gifts for coffee lovers at Burman Coffee Traders. Please visit our site to find additional home coffee roasters, accessories, and green coffee bean options. We offer free shipping and green coffee beans with the purchase of our coffee grinders and home coffee roasters. Also, our Chemex coffee makers include 100 Chemex square coffee filters.

If you are looking for additional help with selecting a gift for a coffee lover, please contact us. We would be happy to help.