Single Origin versus Blends: How do they differ? When you walk through the doors of your local coffee shop, you're presented with a dilemma. Do you go for a single origin, or a blend?
To the untrained eye this decision may seem like a minefield, but it's actually quite easy to understand and will help you to enjoy your coffee even more. What is Single Origin Coffee?
Single origin coffee is from one single place-a single country region farm or even a single lot within a farm.
The important thing here is traceability, and transparency. You know exactly where the coffee originated and how it was processed. Single origin coffees are noted for their distinctive, individual flavours that are a direct result of the terroir-the soil, climate and altitude of the growing region.
Ideal for: Those who love coffee and its subtle variations. If you're interested in understanding your beverage and its associated story, this is perfect for you.
What is a Blend? A blend uses beans from two or more origins, selected and proportioned by a roaster to produce a particular and reproducible flavour composition. Blends are a means of creating an art something more than the sum of the individual parts.
Combining attributes of acidity body sweetness, complexity etc. to one end. Ideal for: Those who love Espresso, need a reliable pick me up every morning, or simply want a nice smooth tasting coffee.
Which to pick? You're not doing anything wrong. If you want an interesting and exciting coffee, go for pure single origin just a single country/region/producers or single farm.
Try something Ethiopian for a fresh, flowery and fruity cup or something Guatemalan for something deep, balsamic and chocolate; if you want an easygoing, balanced everyday coffee that you'll happily use as a long drink or a brilliant espresso, a good blend is the way to go. At Global Coffee Haven, we provide both because one size doesn't fit all.