Coffee lovers know the key to a great brew lies in great beans. So, when the quality of beans matters, the right storage conditions significantly help to preserve the flavour and aroma of the coffee, while storage faux-pas can lead to a real loss of taste.
That’s exactly why the specialty coffee company, Howden Coffee, is tired of seeing coffee lovers storing their beans improperly. In an effort to put everyone on the road to better coffee, here are their five top tips that any coffee aficionado should be implementing.
1. Buy whole bean
The journey begins with understanding the significance of whole beans. From the moment coffee is ground, the freshness instantly begins to fade. It’s not dissimilar to a wine losing its complexity once corked.
To enjoy the ultimate coffee experience, invest in a quality grinder and grind your beans just before brewing. This will also give you more control of your extraction and overall flavour profile. It makes every sip a moment to cherish.
2. Use the right container
Airtight storage is a must when it comes to preserving freshness. Experts at Howden Coffee said: “Using opaque, airtight containers helps to lock in that freshness and plays a big part in retaining the flavourful qualities of the beans. This also shields the coffee from any detrimental effects from light, oxygen, and moisture. It improves longevity and makes a huge difference.”
3. Store in a cool, dark place
Heat and light are the nemesis of fresh coffee. While beans have great aesthetic value, resist the temptation to showcase your coffee in transparent canisters on the countertop. Instead, seek out a cool, dark cabinet away from heat sources like your oven or stovetop. This stops from any external factors affecting the flavour of the beans.
4. Consider smaller batches
If you don’t have airtight containers, you may want to consider buying in smaller batches. This means you can constantly try new beans and do so before they lose their freshness. Coffee is at the peak of its freshness within the first few weeks after roasting, so be sure to enjoy the coffee soon after opening.
5. Avoid the refrigerator (and especially the freezer)
Contrary to popular belief, the refrigerator and freezer are not suitable storage environments for coffee. The humidity and potential for absorbing other food odours make these spaces less than ideal. Instead, focus on finding a cool, dry place for your airtight container. This ensures that your coffee maintains its flavour and delivers a consistently exceptional taste.
In conclusion, coffee storage is a simple process, but essential to get right. Implement these five tips, purchase whole beans, use the right container, store in a cool, dark place, buy in smaller batches, and avoid the refrigerator and freezer. Your coffee will instantly be elevated and your coffee experience will reach a whole new high.
