Welcome to Garrison Coffee Co.’s official blog! If you’ve ever sipped on a fresh brew and wondered why it tastes a little fruity or chocolatey, you’re already on your way to becoming a coffee-tasting pro. Tasting coffee is an art — just like wine or whiskey tasting — and it’s one of the best ways to deepen your appreciation for every cup.
Today, we’re going to take you through the four essential steps of a coffee tasting experience: Smell, Slurp, Locate, and Describe.
Step 1: Smell
Before you take your first sip, lean in and breathe in the aroma of your coffee. Coffee has over 800 aromatic compounds — that’s even more than wine! Do you smell chocolate? Caramel? Maybe a hint of berries?
At Garrison Coffee Co., we often serve single-origin beans that have distinct aromas. For example, our Ethiopian roast is bursting with bright floral and citrus notes, while our Colombian blend is rich with nutty, chocolatey undertones.
Step 2: Slurp
Yes, we’re giving you permission to slurp! Slurping aerates the coffee, spreading it across your palate and enhancing the flavors. It might feel a little funny at first, but trust us — it works.
Step 3: Locate
Pay attention to where the flavors hit on your tongue. Do you notice sweetness at the front, acidity along the sides, or bitterness at the back? Understanding where flavors emerge can help you describe your coffee like a true connoisseur.
Step 4: Describe
Now for the fun part — finding the words to capture what you’re tasting. Use familiar flavor references like chocolate, citrus, or nuts. For beginners, we recommend using the Coffee Taster’s Flavor Wheel for guidance.
At Garrison Coffee Co., we offer coffee-tasting events every month where you can practice these steps with our expert baristas. Come join us and experience the world of specialty coffee like never before!
“Coffee is a language in itself.” — Jackie Chan
📅 Next Tasting Event: March 20, 2025
📍 Location: Garrison Coffee Co., Athlone Town
🎟️ Sign Up Here: [Event Registration Link]
