There is much talk from independent coffee roasters (ourselves included) about freshly roasted coffee. It is one of the crucial differences between small roasteries and large commercial coffee companies.
But what are the benefits of freshly roasted?
Freshly roasted coffee is far superior to pre-roasted or stale coffee. Here are some advantages of enjoying coffee that has been recently roasted:
Enhanced Flavour:
Freshly roasted coffee retains its natural flavours and aromas, resulting in a more robust and nuanced taste. The beans undergo a complex chemical transformation during roasting, developing desirable flavours like caramel, chocolate, fruit, or floral notes. This freshness elevates the overall coffee drinking experience.
Aroma and Fragrance:
The aroma of freshly roasted coffee is incredibly enticing. When you brew a cup of freshly roasted coffee, the fragrant oils are released, filling the air with a captivating scent. This aroma can enhance your mood and create a sensory experience.
Optimal Freshness:
Coffee beans start to lose their freshness and flavour soon after roasting due to oxidation. By consuming freshly roasted coffee, you ensure that you're experiencing coffee at its peak freshness and flavour potential. This can make a noticeable difference in taste, especially if you're used to drinking older or pre-ground coffee.
Richer Nutritional Content:
Coffee beans contain antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that contribute to their health benefits. Over time, these compounds can degrade, reducing their potency. Freshly roasted coffee retains a higher level of these beneficial components, offering potential health advantages.
Customisable Roasting Profiles:
When you roast your own coffee or buy from local specialty roasters, you have more control over the roast level. Different roast profiles can bring out distinct flavours and complexities in the coffee. This allows you to explore a wide range of tastes and find your preferred flavour profile.
Support Local Roasters and Farmers:
Opting for freshly roasted coffee often means supporting local coffee roasters and farmers who are passionate about their craft. Buying from local or small-batch roasters contributes to the sustainability of the coffee industry, fosters community connections, and promotes ethical sourcing practices.
Personalised Brewing:
Freshly roasted coffee allows you to experiment with different brewing methods and techniques to extract the best flavours. You can tailor your brewing process to match the specific characteristics of the beans, creating a truly customised cup of coffee.
How to store freshly roasted coffee?
Storing freshly roasted coffee properly is crucial for preserving its flavour, quality and freshness. Here are some tips to help you store it well:
Airtight Container:
Store coffee in an airtight container to protect it from exposure to air, moisture, light, and odours. Mason jars, airtight canisters, or specially designed coffee storage containers work well.
Cool, Dark Place:
Keep the container in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat sources like the stove or oven. Avoid storing it in the refrigerator or freezer as coffee easily absorbs moisture and odours.
Avoid Oxygen Exposure:
Oxygen is the enemy of fresh coffee. Choose a container that minimises the coffee's exposure to air. Some containers come with a one-way valve to release the CO2 gases without allowing air in.
Whole Beans vs. Ground Coffee:
Whole beans retain their freshness longer than pre-ground coffee. If possible, grind the beans just before brewing for the freshest taste. Electric stainless steel bur coffee grinders can be pricey. If you aren't able to purchase one yet our Ceramic Burr Hand Coffee Grinder is an excellent affordable at home alternative.
Use Quickly:
Freshly roasted coffee is best consumed within 1-2 weeks of purchase for optimal flavour. Over time, coffee loses its freshness and distinctive taste.
Avoid Frequent Opening:
Try to minimize opening the container frequently to preserve the coffee's freshness. Each time you open it, you expose the coffee to air and hasten its deterioration.
Avoid Moisture:
Keep coffee away from moisture. Don't store it near the sink or in a humid environment.
Consider Vacuum Sealing:
If you have a vacuum sealer, you can use it to remove air from the container holding the coffee for longer preservation.
So the key to maintaining the quality of your freshly roasted coffee is to minimize its exposure to air, light, moisture, and odours while storing it in a cool, dry place.
All of our artisan coffees are freshly roasted each week to order. We hope you enjoy them as much as we do. Cheers!
Will (your roaster).