What Are Cupping Notes in Specialty Grade Coffee?

A Beginner's Guide...

Specialty grade coffee is a world filled with diverse flavors, aromas and textures. For both coffee enthusiasts (coffee snobs) and professionals, perceiving sensory notes is an essential skill that enhances the overall coffee experience. We will explore how to effectively identify and appreciate the sensory notes in specialty coffee. Don't worry, this takes lots of practice.

What Are Cupping Notes?

Cupping notes refer to the specific flavors and aromas that can be detected in coffee. These notes can range from fruity and floral to nutty and chocolatey. They are influenced by various factors, including the coffee variety, growing conditions, processing methods and roasting techniques...they are not added to the coffee such as "pumpkin spice".

Steps to Perceive Sensory Notes

1. Start with Fresh Coffee

To accurately perceive sensory notes, begin with freshly roasted coffee. Coffee loses its aromatic compounds over time, so always use beans that have been roasted within the last few weeks.

2. Choose the Right Brewing Method

Different brewing methods can highlight different sensory notes. Experiment with various methods such as pour-over, French press, or espresso to discover how each technique affects the flavor profile.

3. Observe the Aroma

Before tasting, take a moment to smell the coffee. The aroma can provide significant clues about the sensory notes present. Inhale deeply and identify any scents that stand out, such as floral, fruity or earthy notes.

4. Take a Small Sip

When tasting, take a small sip and let the coffee coat your palate. This allows you to experience the full range of flavors. Pay close attention to the initial taste, the body and the aftertaste (finish).

5. Identify Flavors

As you taste, try to identify specific flavors. Coffee is the baseline, try to pinpoint what other sensory notes you are finding beyond typical coffee flavors. Some folks use a flavor wheel or chart to help pinpoint what you’re experiencing. Common notes include:

• Fruity (e.g., berries, citrus)

• Floral (e.g., jasmine, lavender)

• Nuts (e.g., almond, hazelnut)

• Chocolate (e.g., dark chocolate, cocoa)

• Spices (e.g., cinnamon, clove)

6. Consider the Body and Acidity

The body refers to the weight or thickness of the coffee in your mouth (mouthfeel), while acidity describes the brightness or sharpness of the flavor. Both elements play a crucial role in the overall sensory experience.

7. Reflect on the Finish

After swallowing, pay attention to the aftertaste. The finish can reveal lingering flavors that may not have been prominent during the initial sip. Take note of how long the flavors last and how they evolve.

Practice and Patience

Perceiving sensory notes in specialty coffee is a skill that requires practice and patience. Regularly tasting different coffees and taking notes can help enhance your ability to identify and appreciate the intricate flavors present in each cup.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can deepen your understanding of sensory notes in specialty coffee. The journey of discovering flavors is not only enjoyable but also enriches your overall coffee experience. So grab your favorite brew from Sacred Grounds and start exploring the wonderful world of specialty grade coffee!

-- John