Coffee Beans to Cup Journey

It's said that it takes about 40 coffee beans to get that shot of espresso...so here we see the journey of these coffee beans into our cup

The rich aroma and flavours we enjoy are delivered via a journey that starts in lush plantations and ends in your mug. Each cup of coffee tells a narrative. However, have you ever wondered how coffee beans are turned into the ideal beverage? Careful cultivation, accurate processing, professional roasting, and deft brewing are all essential steps in creating the perfect cup of coffee.

Every step of the process, from choosing the best coffee cherries to grinding and brewing, improves the flavours and complexity of your beverage. Knowing this path enhances your enjoyment of each cup, regardless of your level of coffee expertise.

Come along as we examine the ten crucial processes that guarantee each drip of coffee is bursting with flavour, heritage, and artistry as it travels from the field to your cup.

Coffee Beans to Cup Journey

Step 1: Growing 

• Coffee plants are tropical evergreens that take about 5 years to mature.

• Two main species:

  • Arabica (complex flavors, less caffeine).

  • Robusta (stronger, more bitter, more caffeine).

Step 2: Picking

• Once berries turn red, they are ready for harvest.

• Harvesting methods:

  • Handpicking (selective picking of ripe berries).

  • Machine picking (used in some regions like Brazil).

  • Strip picking (entire crops harvested at once).

Step 3: Processing 

• Dry Processing:

  • Traditional method, beans are dried with the fruit.

  • Takes 2-4 weeks, gives more body & acidity.

• Wet Processing:

  • Uses water to separate beans from pulp.

  • Produces cleaner flavors but requires more equipment.

Step 4: Milling 

• Hulling: Removes dried husk from beans.

• Polishing, Aging, Decaffeination (optional steps).

• Beans are graded and sorted based on size, density, and defects.

Step 5: Roasting 

• Green coffee beans are roasted at various temperatures to develop flavors.

• Roast levels:

  • Light Roast (Cinnamon, American).

  • Medium Roast (City, Full City).

  • Dark Roast (Vienna, French, Italian).

Step 6: Packaging 

• Roasted beans are packed in airtight cool, dry containers.

• Vacuum packaging was introduced in 1931 to preserve freshness.

Step 7: Shipping 

• Coffee is transported to retailers, cafes, and homes worldwide.

Step 8: Grinding 

• Beans are ground based on brewing method:

  • Coarse grind (French press, percolator).

  • Medium grind (drip coffee, siphon).

  • Fine grind (espresso, Turkish coffee).

Step 9: Brewing 

• Common brewing methods:

  • Drip (smooth flavor, full body).

  • French Press (bold taste).

  • Espresso (rich, concentrated shot).

Step 10: Drinking 

• Enjoy your cup of coffee! 

The journey is one of commitment, skill, and passion from the time coffee beans are sown until you take your last taste. Growing, harvesting, processing, roasting, grinding, and brewing all contribute significantly to the unique flavours and scents of coffee.

Think about the amazing process that goes into making your favourite beverage the next time you enjoy it. The journey from bean to cup guarantees that every sip is an experience to treasure, regardless of your preference for a rich French press, a smooth drip coffee, or a robust espresso.

Coffee is more than simply a beverage; it's a tale of how human labour, tradition, and nature all combine to make the ideal cup.