If you’re used to drinking a generic brew, Single origin coffee may seem strange at first. But these beans are roasted lighter and bring out flavor nuances that make them delicious!
They’re also more exclusive, since they only come from a single farm or region. Their flavor tells a story about the life it lived—from rain fall to farmers’ traditions and specific growing conditions.
Origin
If you’re a fan of specialty coffee, chances are that you’ve seen the words ‘single origin’ written in chalk on your local cafe’s menu. But what does this exotic buzzword actually mean?
Single origin means that the beans used in your cup came from one specific region or farm. This could be from a co-op in Ethiopia, a small family farm in Guatemala or a vast estate in Brazil.
Unlike blended coffee, which is made up of multiple types of beans that are grown in different regions at various times of the year, single origin coffee has a more distinct and notable flavor. This is because the beans are all grown in the same climate at the same time.
Single origin coffee also helps to support farmers. It encourages them to promote sustainable farming practices, which in turn leads to better tasting coffee. It can be a bit of a recalibration for some drinkers to move away from their usual blends, but the more they try it, the more they may find themselves falling in love with the nuanced flavors of single origin coffee.
Flavor
There are a lot of factors that go into how a coffee tastes. But, for the most part, single origin beans tend to have a taste unique to that region and country in which they are grown. The type of soil, climate and shade can all have a major impact on the tang of the bean.
These flavors are not necessarily better or worse than a blend, but they do stand out and provide something a bit more special to the drinker. These unique flavor profiles can make for a memorable experience that can help connect you to the culture of the region and its people.
When you choose a single origin, try it without any milk or sugar to allow the subtle notes to come through. It may take some time to adjust to a coffee that doesn’t taste like generic java, but once you learn the difference you will appreciate the experience all the more.
Health Benefits
As well as preserving a region’s unique flavor profile, single origin coffee can also offer health benefits. It’s rich in antioxidants, which can help to fight free radicals and protect against diseases. It can also increase brain function and boost metabolism.
Choosing single origin coffee also helps to support the farmers who grow it. Many coffee farms that specialise in single-origin beans prioritise sustainability and work to minimise their impact on local ecosystems, biodiversity, water resources, and climate change.
It’s easy to distinguish single-origin coffee from blends in shops, as the packaging will usually list the country of origin and often the specific field or farm that the beans come from (our bestselling Downtown Blend is a good example). It also means that you can be more confident that you’re supporting small-scale farmers and helping to encourage sustainable farming practices.
The best way to enjoy a cup of single origin coffee is with the pour over method, which allows you to appreciate the subtle notes of the beans and extracts all of the health-boosting antioxidants.
Where to Buy
Single origin coffee can be purchased from a variety of places, both online and in person. Many coffee shops specialize in selling a wide selection of single origin beans and can provide recommendations based on your personal taste preferences. Some coffee shops also roast their own beans, which allows them to provide you with a fresher product.
Farmers markets can also be a good source for single origin coffee. Local farmers can often offer a more fair price for their beans and can provide information about the region where the coffee was grown. Grocery stores and specialty food stores may also carry a selection of high-quality single origin coffees. However, you should always be sure to check the roasted-on date and make sure that the coffee is still fresh.
It is important to purchase your coffee from a reputable retailer, especially if you are interested in single origin beans. A reputable retailer will be transparent about where their coffee beans are sourced and roasted, as well as their commitment to sustainability and ethical practices.
