Brew-tul Honesty: Debunking Common Coffee Myths
Johan R @ 2025-01-09
Coffee. The elixir of the morning, the fuel for the afternoon slump, the social lubricant for countless conversations. But despite its ubiquity, coffee is shrouded in a surprising number of myths and misconceptions. Let's brew up the truth and clear the air:
Myth 1: Darker Roast = Stronger Coffee
Many believe that the darker the roast, the stronger the coffee. In reality, darker roasts actually lose some of their caffeine content during the extended roasting process. While they may have a bolder, more intense flavor, it's primarily due to the caramelization of sugars and the development of bitter oils, not a higher caffeine concentration.
Myth 2: Cold Brew is Stronger Than Hot Brew
Cold brew is often perceived as a caffeine powerhouse. While it does extract more flavor compounds from the beans, it doesn't necessarily translate to a higher caffeine content. The caffeine concentration can vary depending on the brewing method and coffee-to-water ratio.
Myth 3: All Coffee Tastes the Same
Ah, the great coffee equalizer! This couldn't be further from the truth. Coffee beans from different regions, varieties, and processing methods exhibit unique flavor profiles. From the bright, fruity notes of Ethiopian Black Cherry Guji to the rich, chocolatey undertones of Colombian Huila Caramel Supremo, the world of coffee is a vast and exciting tapestry of flavors. If you’re wondering how different coffee roasts can taste so different without getting any flavors added, check out our blog on coffee “terroir” here.
Myth 4: Espresso is the Strongest Coffee
Espresso is a concentrated form of coffee, but its caffeine content per ounce isn't necessarily higher than other brewing methods. The strength lies in its intense flavor and the way it's typically consumed in small shots.
Myth 5: You Should Only Drink Coffee in the Morning
While coffee is a fantastic morning pick-me-up, there's no reason to limit your enjoyment. Many people find that a mid-afternoon cup helps them stay alert and focused. Just be mindful of your caffeine intake later in the day, as it can interfere with sleep. We’ve talked about healthy coffee consumption in our blog over here. Long story short, the best parts about coffee are the natural antioxidants. So if you want to take advantage of coffee’s health benefits without the drawbacks of caffeine, give decaf a try.
Myth 6: You Should Grind Your Coffee Just Before Brewing
Gotcha! This one is absolutely true. Freshly ground coffee retains its aroma and flavor far better than pre-ground coffee, which can quickly become stale. We’ve gone over this in our blog about how to keep coffee fresh. Don’t pre-grind your coffee! You should grind your beans right before brewing, you’ll taste the difference.
