Comparing the Best Coffee Beans in the World: Tasting Notes
There’s something uniquely enjoyable and inspiring about exploring the best coffee beans in the world.
Every region and every bean has something unique to offer, in terms of history, coffee culture and the subtle nuances of each cup.
But it’s not until you compare a handful of different (and equally fantastic) brews side by side that you realise just how different each coffee experience can be. Particularly when it comes to the best coffee beans in the world, meticulously cultivated and processed to bring out their unique qualities.
A TASTING JOURNEY: EXPLORING COFFEE FLAVOUR PROFILES
We all have our own individual tastes and preferences, but this doesn’t mean you can’t appreciate and enjoy coffees that don’t fall within your usual comfort zone. In fact, periodically (or regularly) broadening your horizons with something a little different can be incredibly enjoyable.
While there’s a near-endless range of different types of coffee to try out, most of the best coffee beans in the world fall into one of the following three categories:
1) BRIGHT AND FRUITY: CITRUSY AND FLORAL COFFEE VARIETIES
The most exquisite beans from Latin America and Africa are known for their bright and fruity flavour profiles. These beans often have delicate notes of citrus fruits, berries and floral undertones. You’ll instantly pick up on their distinct acidity and sweetness, as well as their body and aftertaste. Compare the flavours of different beans - such as Ethiopian Yirgacheffe with its vibrant floral notes and Colombian Supremo with its well-balanced acidity – to get a feel for the diversity of these regions.
2) RICH AND EARTHY: CHOCOLATY AND NUTTY COFFEE BEANS
Meanwhile, the best coffee beans from Asia and the Pacific are more renowned for their rich and earthy flavour profiles. These beans often exhibit notes of chocolate, nuts and even spices. The deep chocolate flavours of Sumatran Mandheling are particularly pronounced, while the nutty tones in Vietnamese Robusta are no less than exquisite. If you like your coffee rich and decadent, this is the region for you.
3) THE PERFECT BALANCING: WELL-ROUNDED COFFEES
Of course, if you’re more about balancing the best of all worlds, there’s no shortage of options to choose from. The well-balanced flavours of Costa Rican Tarrazu are a guaranteed a crowd pleaser, while the slightly more complex and layered taste of Guatemalan Antigua always hits the right note with connoisseurs. Striking the perfect balance between acidity, sweetness and body isn’t easy, but is where the real art of superior coffee production comes in.
A QUICK NOTE ON TASTING
To truly appreciate the unique flavours and nuances of the best coffee beans money can buy, it’s a good idea to choose the most appropriate brewing method for each coffee. Sniff the freshly ground coffee to pick up distinct aromas, then take small sips and let the coffee coat your entire palate.
Pay attention to the different flavour notes that emerge slowly, such as citrus, chocolate, or caramel. Notice the acidity, sweetness, body and aftertaste and try to discern any subtle differences between beans.
A world away from simply gulping down your favourite java like it’s a race, but also where the true enjoyment of the best coffee beans in the world lies!
At Hayman’s online store you will find the best coffee in the world, including the legendary Jamaica Blue Mountain coffee, Hawaii Kona coffee, and Panama Geisha coffee. All our coffees are freshly roasted and available as whole bean, ground coffee, and pods/capsules. And last but not least, they come in a beautiful box. Click HERE to order today, we are offering free worldwide shipping for all purchases!
