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Permalink Reply by Joel F. Eugenio on October 26, 2008 at 1:48am

mr dave which kind of coffee beans you are buying is it roasted already or fresh beans, which coffee you love the most to drink espresso, americano or latte? you have to consider it so anybody can diagnose which grinding point, coffee dose and time of extraction etc will suit in your taste... however if it is for experiment, its better to buy a good espresso machine rather than a plunger or coffee brewer..

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Permalink Reply by Brady on October 26, 2008 at 6:35am

Hi Dave,

I'd suggest first that you look around and try to find a shop or roaster in your area that does open cuppings. Go to a couple and learn what you can about the coffee evaluation process. There are a couple more locals on here, maybe they could help you. The knowledge gained in a few of these sessions would serve you well.

Are you referring to beans that would be used for a cup of "drip", or are you referring to espresso? The rest of my response assumes that you don't mean espresso... so hope I guessed right.

Your most straightforward way to evaluate coffees is the standard cupping method. All that would be required is a good grinder and a kettle. That said, the method I really prefer is the French Press - as it yields something that is a little more of a "standard cup". Both will require a good grinder, which should be your focus.

Good luck.

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Permalink Reply by Joey Trujillo on October 26, 2008 at 2:14pm

Definitely start with a traditional cupping method. Very easy to pull off without any needed investment really... no machinery necessary... you could most likely just use some household items and set up a cupping station on your kitchen table! Piece o' cake.

Think about the demographic you're trying to reach... how would they be brewing these coffees? French press and/or little drip brewers I'd guess... consider taking the time to brew the coffees one or both of these ways and reviewing them accordingly. Good luck!

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Permalink Reply by Dave on October 29, 2008 at 10:49pm

Hi, Thanks to those who took the time to reply - appreciated. Have booked in for a "Home Barista Course" early in the new year. Had a chat to my local supplier who runnings cupping sessions one a month.

Again thanks for your help

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