How To Taste Coffee Part 4 | Finish

Think about the best cup of coffee you have ever had?  Mine was in Italy.  Shortly after arriving to the area I entered a café and my opinion of coffee changed forever.  A significant reason why this particular cup of coffee left a lasting impression is because of its finish. 

Just like wine, coffee can have a bouquet of flavors that are appreciated with every sip and how that cup of coffee finishes can leave lasting impressions.  When I refer to finish, I am referring to coffee’s texture and body.  Is the body of the coffee smooth and silky?  Does the flavor you taste rest on your tongue for a long time?  How does it change when you add milk?  When you are drinking coffee, I believe the cup’s finish and how well it carries that blend’s flavor will have a major influence on your opinion of that blend. 

Next time you drink a cup of coffee, slow things down and think about how this cup changes over time and remember how this cup finishes can help you pick the right beans to purchase.