Brew & Review October 2024

Welcome!

Hello, coffee lovers! As October comes to a close, I hope you all had a fantastic Halloween filled with fun, treats, and perhaps a bit of spookiness! This month, I’ve been on a quest to explore some incredible coffee offerings, and I can’t wait to share my experiences with you. From delightful brews to unique beans, October has been a month of flavor discovery. So grab your pumpkin spice latte (or whatever your brew of choice may be), and let’s dive in!

Topic List:

• Coffee Shop Feature: Dick’s Bean Bar

• Coffee Bean Review: Brazilian Santos

• Coffee Tips

• Deep dive into Cupping

• Spooky Coffee Recipes

Coffee Shop Feature: Dick’s Bean Bar

If you’re in Warrington and looking for a fantastic coffee experience, look no further than Dick’s Bean Bar! This cozy spot, conveniently located near the train station, immediately welcomed me with its warm atmosphere and friendly staff. From the moment I walked in, I felt right at home.

While I didn’t indulge in any food during my visit, the delightful aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the air was tempting, and the treats on display looked absolutely delicious! I was particularly impressed by the setup of their coffee beans for sale—everything was beautifully arranged, making it easy to explore their offerings.

Now, let’s talk about the coffee! I tried an iced latte made with the Brazilian Santos beans, and it was nothing short of amazing. The smooth sweetness of the beans shone through, and it was the perfect refreshment on that day. I loved it so much that I couldn’t resist picking up some beans to take home and brew my own delicious cups!

Dick’s Bean Bar is truly a gem in Warrington, and I highly recommend stopping by for a great coffee experience. You won’t be disappointed!

Address: 17 Winwick St, Warrington WA1 1XR
https://dicksbeanbar.coffee/

Coffee Bean Review: Brazilian Santos

I brought home some Brazilian Santos beans from Dick’s Bean Bar, and I was excited to try them after hearing so much about their deliciousness. I was not disappointed!

These beans are exactly as described—well-balanced with a smooth sweetness and a medium body. I found them incredibly easy to dial in, and I breezed through my bag way too quickly because I was enjoying it so much! The flavor notes of vanilla and milk chocolate made it the perfect coffee to ease into winter, wrapping me in a cozy, warm hug with every sip.

For the real coffee enthusiasts out there, here are some important details: this coffee hails from the Minas Gerais region of Brazil, known for its high-quality coffee production. It grows at an elevation of 1500 to 1800 meters, and the beans undergo a natural process that really enhances those nuanced flavors.

If you’re new to buying from a roaster, this Santos coffee is a fantastic choice. It perfectly represents what small-batch roasters do best, allowing the nuanced flavors to shine. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking to elevate their coffee experience!

Coffee Tips

• Experiment with Brew Methods: Try different brewing techniques (like pour-over, French press, or AeroPress) to see which one brings out the flavours you love most.

• Use Freshly Ground Beans: For the best flavour, grind your beans just before brewing. This maximises the aroma and taste of your coffee.

• Water Quality Matters: Always use filtered water for brewing, as tap water can introduce unwanted flavours that affect your coffee.

• Mind Your Ratios: A good starting point is to use one to two tablespoons of coffee per six ounces of water. Adjust to taste!

• Store Beans Properly: Keep your coffee beans in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to maintain freshness.

The Science of Cupping

What is Cupping?
Cupping is a standardised method used by coffee professionals to evaluate the aroma and flavour profile of brewed coffee. This practice involves brewing coffee in a specific way, allowing tasters to assess its qualities systematically. The process includes grinding coffee beans to a uniform coarseness, steeping them in hot water, and then using a spoon to slurp the coffee, aerating it to better capture its aromas and flavors. This method allows for a clear evaluation of different coffees, helping roasters and buyers identify unique characteristics and qualities.

Origins of Cupping
The practice of cupping can be traced back to the 19th century, particularly among coffee traders who needed a reliable way to assess the quality of beans before purchasing. It was primarily developed as a means to distinguish the nuances between different coffee varieties and origins. Over time, cupping has evolved into a crucial part of the specialty coffee industry, becoming a standardised practice for quality control and evaluation.

Importance in Specialty Coffee
In the specialty coffee world, cupping plays a vital role in maintaining high standards and consistency. It allows coffee professionals—roasters, importers, and baristas—to compare different batches, identify defects, and select the best beans for roasting. By using cupping, roasters can evaluate the flavour profile of a coffee, which includes aspects like acidity, body, sweetness, and aftertaste. This systematic evaluation helps roasters craft unique blends and roast profiles that highlight the inherent qualities of the beans.

Evolution of Sensory Evaluation
Cupping has seen significant advancements, with the introduction of specific tools and techniques designed to enhance the tasting experience. The use of standardised cupping forms helps tasters document their findings, providing a reliable reference for comparison. Additionally, training programs have emerged, educating coffee professionals on the nuances of flavour identification and sensory perception. This evolution has led to a more refined understanding of coffee flavours, with tasters learning to identify subtler notes and characteristics.

Moreover, the integration of scientific methods into cupping, such as the use of gas chromatography to analyse volatile compounds, has provided deeper insights into the chemical makeup of coffee. This scientific approach has allowed for a more precise understanding of how different processing methods and growing conditions affect flavour, further enhancing the specialty coffee industry's ability to provide high-quality, flavourful brews.

Conclusion
Cupping is not just a ritual for coffee lovers; it is an essential practice that ensures quality and consistency in the specialty coffee industry. As the field continues to grow and evolve, cupping will remain a cornerstone of the craft, helping enthusiasts and professionals alike appreciate the complexity and richness of coffee. Whether you’re a barista, a roaster, or simply a coffee aficionado, understanding cupping can deepen your appreciation for the artistry and science behind your favourite brews.

Spooky Coffee Recipes

1. Ghostly White Chocolate Mocha

   • Combine white chocolate syrup with espresso, steamed milk, and top with whipped cream and spooky ghost sprinkles!

2. Witch's Brew Cold Brew

   • Prepare a cold brew coffee and add a splash of green matcha for a magical twist. Serve over ice with a slice of lime.

3. Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini

   • Mix espresso, vodka, coffee liqueur, and pumpkin spice syrup. Shake well and strain into a martini glass, garnishing with a sprinkle of nutmeg.

4. Black Cat Brew

   • Brew a strong cup of dark roast coffee, and add activated charcoal for an eerie colour. Sweeten to taste and enjoy your spooky drink!

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