The Art of Coffee Tasting at Takumi Collective

Introduction to Coffee Tasting

Embark on a sensory journey with every cup of coffee at Takumi Collective. Our Coffee Tasting Guide not only allows you to record your experiences but also enlightens you on how we ethically source, roast, brew, and taste each batch, ensuring a rich and immersive experience.

Coffee Tasting Fundamentals

Engage with your coffee from the first enticing aroma to the last sip, understanding the depth of its character and origins.

Step 1: Smell Start by smelling the coffee. Since your tongue can only detect basic tastes (salty, sweet, bitter, sour), your nose plays a crucial role in perceiving the coffee’s complex aromas. Cup your hand over it, bring the cup close to your nose, and take a deep inhale.

Step 2: Slurp Slurp the coffee vigorously. This technique sprays the coffee across your palate, enhancing the interaction of its subtle flavors and aromas with your senses.

Step 3: Locate Focus on where the flavors unfold on your tongue—tip, sides, or back? What’s the mouthfeel? What’s the weight of the coffee on your tongue?

Step 4: Describe Reflect on what you’ve tasted and smelled. How would you describe the aroma, acidity, body, and overall flavor of the coffee?

Coffee Brewing Techniques

Proper Preparation Proportions Takumi Collective recommends using 2 Tbsp (10 g) of ground coffee for every 6 fl oz (180 ml) of water to achieve the perfect extraction.

Grind Essentials The grind should be matched to your brewing method to control flavor extraction. The right grind ensures only the best flavors are drawn out.

Water Quality Given coffee is 98% water, the quality of water is paramount. Use fresh, good-tasting, or filtered water for the best results.

Freshness Treat coffee as perishable goods. Keep it away from oxygen, light, heat, and moisture. Store it in an opaque, airtight container at room temperature and use within a week of opening.

How to Brew with a Coffee Press

Step 1: Use coarsely ground coffee—2 Tbsp for every 6 fl oz of water. Step 2: Add hot water just off the boil. Step 3: Let it brew for four minutes. Step 4: Press and pour to enjoy.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of coffee tasting enhances your appreciation and helps you connect deeper with the coffee’s origin, processing method, and roasting profile. At Takumi Collective, we are dedicated to providing an enriching experience that educates and delights every coffee enthusiast.