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Skilfully brewed coffee is never the result of improvisation. It may seem a quick and simple process, carried out at the touch of a button, yet behind the technology of coffee machines and the composition of our favourite coffee blends is the work of many operators and research conducted by experts. Moreover, there are also important touches we can add at home and many discoveries we can make to become more aware of our tastes.
When the coffee roaster creates a blend, the coffee species is selected (Arabica, Robusta, or a combination of both), along with its origin (Brazil, India, Costa Rica...) as well as the type of processing of the coffee beans: natural, washed, semi-processed. He estimates the number of coffee varieties required to make up the blend, the percentage for each variety, and finally the ideal degree of roast for that specific blend.
It is up to us to choose the coffee blends we prefer, basically according to our tastes and the type of extraction we will use to brew coffee: either an espresso coffee or filter coffee machine or a moka coffee pot.
However, regardless of personal taste, it is advisable to buy coffee that has the highest possible traceability score: that way we know exactly which varieties make up the blend, where they come from and how the coffee was processed. In certain cases, we may also have information on the sustainability of the product about the environment and the working conditions of those involved in the various harvesting and production stages.
Speciality coffees by definition have the highest traceability scores, precisely because they are coffees that are grown in unique microclimates, processed and roasted in a way that enhances their characteristics.
In addition to the composition of the coffee blend, it is equally important to choose its degree of roast, which can significantly change its flavour: the same blend roasted differently can be either sour, soft or bitter. Generally speaking, a darker roast produces a more bitter coffee.
A useful tip when buying coffee is to check its roast date: it is preferable to enjoy it no later than a month after being roasted, buying the coffee beans whole and freshly grinding them at home just before use. If we wish to prepare filter coffee, the ideal grind size is medium, for moka coffee pots and espresso coffee machines, the grind size should be fine, as this makes it easier to extract the essence of the coffee.
The coffee should be stored in an airtight container, away from light, in a dry place.
To taste it at its best, we should choose the most suitable cup according to the drink we have brewed: it is important that the cup is hot and dry.
The CGF11 coffee grinder is an essential small household appliance to grind coffee beans at home. Featuring 2 functions for fine grinding and 6 for medium grinding, it provides the perfect coffee powder for every type of extraction.
