Surf City Coffee Company

Coffee Tasting (also known as “coffee cupping”) is simply a process of comparing and contrasting different coffees. Tasting only one coffee at a time will not help you discern the different characteristics afforded in different varietals and blends. But if you taste two or three coffees, you can compare them not only in terms of personal preference, but also in terms of aroma, acidity, and flavor. (Tasting Tip: Always taste lighter bodied coffees first and work up to fuller bodied coffees.)

Aroma is the first hint of how your coffee will taste. In fact, most of your sense of taste actually comes from your sense of smell - which is why coffee can taste so satisfying and sublime.

Acidity, in tasting terms, doesn’t mean sour or bitter; it’s a lively, tangy, palate-cleansing property, ranging from low to high. Think of the range from still water to sparkling water, and you’ll get the idea.

Body is the weight or thickness of the beverage on your tongue. Body ranges from light to full.

Flavor is the all important melding of aroma, acidity, and body that creates an overall impression.

Note: More terms can be found at Coffee Tasting Terms