Coffee Class: Get Fresh

Freshness is a cornerstone of great coffee. Around here, we go to incredible lengths to ensure that coffee reaches you in its peak condition. From sourcing green coffee beans from remote regions to coordinating their transport via planes, trucks, and even boats, the logistics of maintaining freshness is no small feat. Shipping coffee from the depths of jungles requires precision, and it’s a constant effort to deliver the best.

But it’s not just us who think about freshness; it’s one of the most frequently asked questions from customers. So, let’s break it down: here’s everything you need to know to keep your coffee as fresh and flavorful as possible.

Coffee’s Life Expectancy

First, let’s talk about coffee’s ideal lifespan. Freshly roasted coffee tastes best within two weeks of its roast date. Think of coffee as a perishable item, more like bread or fresh produce than a pantry staple like sugar or flour. While coffee doesn’t spoil like milk, its quality and flavor noticeably decline over time.

Extensive testing has shown that coffee begins to lose its vibrant flavors after about 30 days. To enjoy the best cup, buy only as much coffee as you can drink within two weeks, then restock with fresh beans. This ensures you’re always brewing with coffee at its peak.

The Best Ways to Store Coffee

Proper storage plays a crucial role in maintaining coffee’s freshness. Coffee, like olive oil, deteriorates when exposed to sunlight, heat, or moisture. The best way to store whole beans is in a well-sealed, dark glass or ceramic jar. Keep the jar in a cool, dry place away from direct light and temperature fluctuations.

Alternatively, you can store coffee in its original, protective bag, ensuring it’s tightly sealed between uses. One thing you should never do is grind and freeze your coffee. While freezers are excellent for preserving many items, coffee doesn’t fare well in that environment. The fluctuating temperatures and added moisture can alter the beans’ oils and structure, resulting in a brew that tastes like your freezer smells—definitely not what you want.

Grind Right Before You Brew

For the freshest coffee experience, grind your beans just before brewing. Grinding accelerates the oxidation process, causing the coffee to lose its flavor more quickly. To achieve the best results, grind your coffee within 15 minutes of brewing.

If you’re traveling or camping and need to pre-grind your coffee, aim to consume it within a couple of days. While pre-ground coffee won’t match the quality of freshly ground beans, you can still enjoy a decent cup by minimizing its exposure to air and moisture.

Freshness Is Key

Ultimately, freshness is the foundation of a great cup of coffee. By paying attention to roast dates, proper storage, and grinding practices, you can ensure that every brew is as flavorful as possible. Treat coffee like the delicate, perishable item it is, and you’ll taste the difference in every sip.