Welcome, coffee enthusiasts! One of the pivotal factors in enjoying a cup of coffee that is often overlooked and impacts flavor is proper storage of your coffee beans. Whether you savor a freshly roasted single origin coffee or prefer a specialty blend, understanding the art of coffee storage can make a remarkable difference in your daily coffee experience.
Why Is Coffee Storage Important?
First and foremost, let's delve into why coffee storage matters. Coffee beans are sensitive to light, moisture, air (specifically oxygen) and temperature. When exposed to these elements, the nuanced flavors that make freshly roasted coffee special start to dissipate, leaving you with a lackluster cup of coffee. By storing your coffee correctly, you preserve the flavors and aromas that make each sip a delightful experience.
Choosing the Right Container
The journey of keeping your coffee fresh begins with the right container. One of the best ways to control the freshness of your coffee is to opt for a coffee canister that is airtight and opaque. Some have used mason jars in the past, which we do not work recommend as they don't keep light out well. Airtight containers ensure that oxygen doesn't seep in and degrade the coffee, while opaque ones protect the beans from light exposure. This simple act shields your coffee from the enemies of freshness, extending its flavor life span. At Sugar Creek Coffee Roasters, we have sourced state-of-the-art coffee canisters from Airscape® that features a patented plunger lid designed to fit snugly against the inside of the canister. As the lid is pressed down, the oxygen is forced out through a valve. Once the plunger is directly above the contents, simply flip the handle down to prevent further oxygen exchange and dramatically increase the shelf life of your coffee.
The Ideal Storage Location
Once you have a trusty coffee canister, where should you keep it? The ideal location for storing coffee is in a cool, dark place. Direct sunlight and heat are enemies of fresh coffee. Find a spot away from windows, stovetops, or other sources of heat to maintain the optimal freshness of your beans or grounds. Typical room temperature of a house around 70 degrees is totally within an acceptable range, as long as it isn't in direct sunlight. Storing in a cabinet or pantry works out perfect!
Avoiding the Foe: Moisture
Moisture is another foe that can ruin your coffee's flavor profile. Always ensure your coffee storage area is dry, as moisture can cause the beans to lose their freshness quickly. It's best to avoid storing coffee near the sink or in a humid environment to prevent any unwanted moisture from creeping in. One of the biggest reasons we do not recommend storing beans in the fridge is the condensation that is created when the beans come to room temperature, which will degrade coffee quickly quickly.
Fresh Roasted Coffee: A Special Case
For all of your freshly roasted coffee from Sugar Creek Coffee Roasters, the stakes are even higher. Freshly roasted coffee releases gases for a couple of days after roasting. To store it correctly, a degassing valve is an important feature on your canister or coffee bag. At Sugar Creek Coffee Roasters, a one-way degassing valve is included on all of our premium bags. Our state-of-the-art coffee canisters also have a one-way valve. These valves allow the gases to escape while preventing oxygen from entering the bag, ensuring your coffee stays fresh longer.
Summary
In conclusion, the art of coffee storage is a simple yet essential practice that can elevate your freshly roasted coffee experience from Sugar Creek Coffee Roasters to new heights. By investing in a quality airtight canister, choosing the right storage location, and keeping your coffee away from light, heat and moisture, you can preserve the nuances of your favorite beans or grounds. Whether you're a casual coffee drinker or a passionate connoisseur, proper coffee storage is the key to unlocking a rich and full-bodied cup every time.
So, next time you brew your morning coffee, remember the art of coffee storage and savor every sip like never before!
Enjoy your freshly roasted (and stored) coffee! ☕
Comments