Coffee encyclopaedia · Roasting
Green coffee is hard, grassy and not much fun in a mug. Roasting uses heat to build aroma, sweetness, bitterness and colour — but making the bean darker is only the most visible part of the job.
Section 01
Green coffee changes rapidly as heat drives off moisture, expands the bean and creates new aromatic compounds. Roast development decides how much origin character survives beside roast character.
Section 02
Roast colour is useful shorthand, but it is not a complete flavour score. Lighter roasts often preserve more origin-led acidity and aroma; darker roasts usually push further toward caramelised, bitter and roasty flavours.
Section 03
Two coffees with a similar finished colour can taste very different depending on how heat was applied. Time, airflow, rate of rise and development after first crack all matter.
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Union Hand-Roasted Coffee
Why it caught our eye
A dark-roast espresso blend centred on chocolate, caramel and treacle, with the seed profile corrected to avoid unsupported bitterness and cinnamon claims.
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Coffee
Why it caught our eye
Figuero is a boutique estate in Ribera del Duero focusing on small parcels of old vines across the region. The `15` refers to fifteen months in French oak, longer than standard aging requirements. The 2018 vintage in Ribera was excellent, delivering wines with ripeness, structure and balance. This Reserva comes from vines averaging 40+ years old, contributing depth and concentration. Black cherry, blackberry and plum with dark chocolate, espresso and sweet oak spice. Full bodied with firm tannins and a concentrated core of dark fruit. There`s power here but it`s controlled, with freshness keeping it from feeling heavy. Layers of complexity with liquorice, leather and mineral notes. Long, persistent finish. Decant for at least an hour if drinking now, preferably longer. This needs air to show its best. Pairs excellently with grilled steak, roast lamb, game, or aged Manchego. Still quite youthful, will develop beautifully over 10-15 years.
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Duffy's Chocolate
Why it caught our eye
5 flavoured bars in a presentation sleeve - great as a gift or as a treat. 1 bar each: 45% Mochaccino milk chocolate with coffee 43% Oak Smoked Salt & Nibs milk chocolate 65% dark chocolate with orange 65% dark chocolate with raspberry 72% Espresso dark chocolate with coffee.
£26.00
Real Food Hub
illy
Why it caught our eye
A smooth medium-roast coffee with caramel, floral and cocoa cues.
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