How I Review Coffee

After reviewing coffee for some time, I became convicted to have a sort of standardized system of reviewing.  Once I found my groove in writing the reviews, a certain template was born.  Here is a look at my format:

When you look at most of my reviews there is a distinctive introduction to each coffee.  In this space I describe the conditions under which I came across the coffee, how much it sells for, if it arrived fresh, and what the coffee seller says that it tastes like.  Next is the “Nose” section which contains the aroma profile of the coffee.  After that comes the “Mouth” section in which obviously, I describe the flavor profile of the coffee along with descriptions of the body, mouthfeel, etc…  Finally I wrap it up with “The Big Picture” section where I state some general thoughts.  Did I like the coffee?  What situations is this coffee viable in?  Who would I recommend it to? So on and so forth.  Due to the experimental nature of my blog, this formula may change or evolve at times, but for now this is the standard way that I go about the coffee reviewing.

How do I brew my coffee?

I have tried several brewing methods and continue to experiment with new ones from time to time.  But when it comes to brewing for a coffee review I have a standard way of doing things.  I don’t review coffee for people that taste or “cup” coffee for a living and I don’t review for people who prefer Folgers in the morning.  I believe there is a growing coffee “middle class” that can taste the difference between high quality arabica and low quality robusto.  This is the demographic that I review for.  That being said, not everyone owns a burr grinder, french press, or a scale to dose coffee with.  I brew my coffee for reviewing using equipment that can be found in most coffee loving households.

Grinding: I use a standard blade grinder.  No frills, no complex settings.

Brewing: I use a Cuisinart drip brewer, with a mesh filter (not paper) and a thermal carafe.  I think a paper filter absorbs too many of the precious oils that give a coffee it’s flavor.  With a mesh filter, you get more flavor and the cup is mostly grit free.

Drinkware: I always review coffee using my trusty double walled glass mug from Bodum.  This mug slows down the cooling process of the coffee.  Also, since it’s clear it allows me to easily see the color / translucency of the coffee.

That’s about it.  How do you drink your coffee?  Do you love it so much that you review it?  Sound off in the comments.