Moment 158: What is The Best Cheap Coffee? Coffee Expert Reveals In Blind Taste Test: James Hoffman
Apr 19, 2024
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James Hoffmann, a world-renowned coffee expert, conducts a blind taste test to determine the best high street coffee. He explains the importance of assessing roast, smell, and taste while promoting support for local cafes over major chains for better quality. The discussion highlights the benefits of independent coffee shops and the value of a professional approach to enjoying coffee.
Different coffee roasts impact flavor profiles, favoring lighter roasts for preserving raw material qualities.
Supporting local cafes can provide better coffee due to care and quality, compared to major coffee chains.
Deep dives
Coffee Tasting: Varying Roasts and Tastes
Different coffee roasts were discussed, with darker roasts often associated with bitterness. Lighter roasts are now considered better due to preserving raw material qualities. The podcast highlighted how different roasts impact the flavor profile of the coffee, with acidity levels also varying between different coffee beans.
Comparing Coffee Chains and Independent Stores
A taste test compared popular high street chain coffees such as McDonald's, Costa, and Starbucks with an independent coffee shop. While preferences varied, the independent store stood out for its unique flavor and character. Price variances and consumer perceptions of chain versus independent coffee shops were also discussed.
Support for Independent Coffee Shops
The podcast emphasized the benefits of supporting independent coffee shops over chain stores. It highlighted the quality and care offered by independent shops, contrasting with the standardization and market dominance of chain stores like Starbucks. The host advocated for a shift towards valuing quality and uniqueness over price and convenience.
In this moment, world renowned coffee expert, James Hoffmann, tests and chooses the best high street coffee. James guides you though everything you need to know to assess coffee like a professional, this includes looking at the roast of the coffee, the smell and finally it’s taste and different tones. He also outlines the benefits of supporting your local cafe rather than getting your morning cup at a major coffee chain, as you can get a better cup of coffee from someone who cares nearly as deeply about coffee as you.