Coffees, Storage & Brewing

 

 

How long can coffee stay on my shelf?  From the time coffee is roasted it begins to lose its freshness and can be kept on shelves in whole bean bulk bins 2 - 3 weeks and in a freezer 2 weeks longer. Coffee which is packaged in air valve bags is good for 4 - 5 months unopened.  Freeze coffee after opening for best freshness.

 

Whole bean coffees packed in one way airvalve bags will last unopened for up to 4 months.  After the bag seal is broken use within 7 days or store in a glass container in a freezer.

 

How many cups does a  pound of specialty gourmet coffee make?  70 to 90 cups of coffee.

 

How  do I brew a great cup of specialty gourmet coffee?  The best way to brew a pot of coffee is to use a cone filter brewer.  This brewing system allows the grounds proper steeping time.  The grind is also an important factor in making a great pot of coffee.  If the coffee is ground too fine, the water will have difficulty passing through the filter and this can cause a bitter cup of coffee.  Another good way to create a wonderful cup of coffee is with a French press, in which coffee grounds are hand pressed through hot water with a metal filter.

 

What is Robusta coffee?  Robusta coffee is a species of coffee plant.  Robusta coffee beans are much smaller and are grown in lower altitude and overall harsher conditions than Arabica coffee beans.  The Robusta plants also produce four times the amount of green beans than do Arabica plants.  Robusta coffee contains two-thirds more caffeine and two-thirds more acid than Arabica coffee.  Earthtones uses only Arabica coffee.

 

What is Espresso?  Espresso is a coffee drink originated by the Italians as a quick pick-me-up for the working class people.  It is finely ground coffee (either dark or light roast, blend or straight) that is placed under a machine which rapidly forces hot water through it at a high pressure.  If done properly, this process creates an extremely strong brew that is not bitter.