04 Aug Exploring coffee cupping: How professionals taste coffee

Coffee cupping is the practice used by roasters and baristas to taste and evaluate coffee – sort of like a wine tasting, but with beans. It’s a simple yet structured process that helps identify the flavours, aromas, and overall quality of a coffee. During cupping, freshly ground coffee is placed in a cup, hot water is poured over it, and after a few minutes of steeping, the crust (a layer of grounds) is broken to release a wave of aroma. Then comes the fun part—tasting! Using a spoon, you slurp the coffee (yes, loudly!) to spread it across your palate and detect its unique notes.

The goal of cupping isn’t just to figure out if a coffee is “good” or “bad”—it’s about understanding its character. We look for flavour notes like chocolate, citrus, berry, or spice, as well as acidity, body, sweetness, and aftertaste. Cupping helps roasters like us create blends, guide their roasting decisions, and ensure quality. Even if you’re not a coffee pro, trying a basic version of cupping at home can be a fun way to deepen your appreciation for what’s in your cup. All you need is hot water, fresh beans, and a curious palate!