Blend
Coffee blend, coffee mix, bean blend - All these terms are often used in reference to coffee and espresso. But what exactly is behind the term coffee blend?
Suitable coffees
What is a coffee blend and what are blends used for?
The word "blend" basically describes the combining of coffees to bring out certain flavors. The number of different provenances in a coffee blend can vary. The so-called blends often consist of beans of different provenances and with different degrees of roasting. In this way, specific characteristics of the individual coffees are isolated during separate roasting and advantageously combined to form a blend. There are blends consisting of different types of coffee (Arabica and Robusta) as well as those consisting of the same type of coffee from different regions or countries (often blends of 100% Arabica beans).
Since coffee beans are a natural product and can vary slightly in taste depending on the harvest, blends are developed in which the individual flavor components harmonize. In this way, a constant flavor picture can be maintained, because good blends convince through their consistently consistent quality. The coffees used and their proportions can be adjusted by the roaster in each coffee blend to create an individual flavor profile and highlight certain flavor notes. This makes each type of blend unique and thus offers fragrant lovers a wide range of different tasting coffees. Most coffee blends contain a blend of Arabica and Robusta beans to combine the diverse flavors of Arabica coffee with the bitter notes and popular crema of Robusta coffee beans.
When are the beans of a blend mixed?
It is possible to blend the beans in the coffee roastery before roasting, as well as after they have been roasted. Both processes have a different effect on the taste of the coffee blend. Finding the ideal time for the blending process is left to experienced master roasters and coffee roasters. In the interest of a harmonious taste, these weigh up which of the two options is the more sensible in a specific case.
The opposite of a coffee blend: single origin coffee
The exact opposite of a blend is single origin coffee, which consists exclusively of a single bean variety from one region. Although blends and single origin coffees usually differ in taste, this does not indicate a difference in quality.
Conclusion
The word blend stands for mixing or combining coffee varieties. A blend is often created for the reason to combine different flavors to create a perfect flavor combination in the coffee. For example, bitter notes and acids are perfectly combined and balanced in the taste. Single origin coffees are the counterpart to coffee blends, as they are single varietal coffees. Coffees that originate from a single bean variety.