Gourmet Coffee – What Makes it So Special?

Article by Peter Halpin

Since it’s discovery, coffee has been one of the most popular drinks on the planet, primarily for it’s aromatic flavour and invigorating qualities.

Until recent times, coffee suppliers offered few alternatives other than your usual, short black, long black, latte, cappuccino, vienna and further choices among these. From mild Italian espresso to thick strong Turkish coffee, the only option for flavour was pretty much still coffee with milk and sugar.

But today’s coffee connoiseur has become far more sophisticated. Coffee now comes in almost any flavour, strength or combination to satisfy even the fussiest coffee lover. No longer are gourmet coffees only set aside for a rare treat, but an growing number of people keep gourmet coffees on their shelves for any occasion.

So What is Gourmet Coffee Anyway?

Gourmet coffee is simply ordinary coffee to which has been added compatible flavours that actually enrich its coffee aroma and taste. The basic coffee taste, texture, aroma and stimulant effect is still there, but with a hint of, let’s say, mint, caramel, bacon, vanilla, chocolate or any other tantalizing possibility. Add to that, the subtle variations in flavour and texture of coffee beans from selected areas of the planet with varying climates and elevation and you have the ideal combination for gourmet coffee.

This is what gives gourmet coffee its unique quality.

Most of us have at some time enjoyed that perfect cup of coffee with something to nibble. It may be choc-mint buscuits, cheesecake, nuts, savoury snacks, pizza or any other imaginable delight. With a gourmet coffee, you can feel like you’re enjoying both, without actually consuming the food.

Where Can I Buy Gourmet Coffee?

Gourmet coffee is on the shelves at most grocery stores but the most convenient way to access a wider selection, is to buy over the internet. Numerous gourmet coffee websites are waiting for you to order from their extensive range.

Gourmet coffee has become a sought after gift idea. They’re great for housewarming parties and are a very smart business gift. Many online suppliers, such as Boca Java, offer gift arrangements which include not only the coffee, but also accessories to add to the appeal.

The definition of gourmet is a fine food or drink that has been assessed by a recognized authority to be excellent. Today, the coffee industry is evolving like the wine industry, where experts put their credibility on the line to appraise quality. Bottom line is, if they say it’s good, it must be good. Gourmet coffee has earned its reputation.

One of the most expensive gourmet coffees, is Jamaican Blue Mountain, mainly because it is so rare due to the effect of hurricanes on the crops. Its beans are not only used for brewed coffee, but are also the flavor base for the famous Tia Maria coffee liqueur. Most online suppliers of any standing will include Jamaican Blue Mountain on their menu.

The term “gourmet coffee” not only refers to just the coffee beans themselves, but includes all of the aspects, activities, techniques and experience that produces that kind of coffee. From the selection of the beans, the masterful roast, adding unique flavour… to the final product. Gourmet coffee is the result of a complete and specialised process.

Anyone for coffee?