KQED's Forum UC Davis Coffee Researchers on the Science Behind a Perfect Cup of Coffee
Dec 17, 2024
William Ristenpart, a chemical engineering professor and director of the UC Davis Coffee Center, teams up with Timothy Styczynski, the center's head roaster, to dive into the fascinating science behind coffee. They discuss the intricate journey of coffee from farm to cup, emphasizing factors like water quality, roasting levels, and brewing techniques. Listeners learn about the impact of climate change on coffee production and the importance of research in enhancing flavor. They also share personal anecdotes and insights into crafting the perfect brew.
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Coffee's Complexity
- Coffee is more complex to make than wine because it involves more processing steps.
- Each step, from growing to brewing, affects the final quality.
Tim's Coffee Moment
- Tim Staczynski's coffee passion started 31 years ago with a memorable cup.
- It tasted of chocolate, caramel, vanilla, and a harmonious citrus note.
Bill's Coffee Epiphany
- Bill Ristenpart's coffee epiphany happened on a road trip.
- He tasted a coffee with a citrus note, which sparked his interest in coffee science.