Coffee

The creation of flavored coffee is not simple at all.
There are mainly three factors that influence the production of the best flavored coffee. Two are the basic ingredients, the third one is the production method:

• ingredient no. 1: the selection of coffee
• ingredient no. 2: the quality of flavors
• the procedure used to process the above ingredients

1. INGREDIENT NO.1: COFFEE

A first key difference to highlight is about the coffee beans. The type of bean used to make flavored coffee greatly impacts the taste of the finished product. It is estimated that coffee beans contain over 800 different compounds, which contribute to their flavor, including sugars and other
carbohydrates, mineral salts, organic acids, aromatic oils, and methylxanthines, a chemical class which includes caffeine.

Arabica beans are most frequently used for creating the best flavored coffee, due to their low levels of acidity and bitterness. These top quality beans are milder and more flavorful than the harsher Robusta beans, which are used in many commercial and instant coffees.

The most experienced coffee roasters create their best flavored coffee from a blend of beans from various regions, putting in the coffee selection the same care that they reserve to the ‘classic’ coffees.

2. INGREDIENT NO.2: FLAVORINGS

The second key difference is given by the flavorings. The coffee roaster must choose between natural and artificial or ‘Nature Identical’ flavorings.

Best flavored coffee is flavored with 100% natural flavours, while commercial coffee is flavoured with artificial flavorings.

Natural oils used in flavored coffees are extracted from a variety of sources, such as vanilla beans, cocoa beans, and various nuts and berries. Synthetic flavor agents are chemicals which are manufactured on a commercial basis.

When food scientists want to make an imitation of a flavor, they extract its aromatic component from its place in nature, and use a spectograph to identify the molecular structure of the flavor.
As a result, those flavors are so-called ‘Nature Identical’. This means that they are comprised of exactly the same chemical structure as the natural flavors, but they are synthesized artificially.

Given the different sources, although the flavor name on the coffee package may be the same (‘French Vanilla’), the product inside can be vastly different. The natural ingredients are much more intense and persistent: try to flavor the same quantity of coffee with the same amount of flavorings, one sample natural another synthetic, and you will see the difference.

The natural flavors are sold in a liquid form. The not-natural are usually dust.

3. THE PRODUCTION PROCESS

The appropriate amount of flavoring to be used must be determined before flavor oils can be added to the roasted beans. The amount of flavoring required depends primarily on the type of flavor and its intensity, as well as the type of bean used and its roast level.

The quantity of flavours to be applied to the beans is established by experimental trial and error, in which test batches of beans are flavored with small quantities of oil until the desired characteristics are obtained.

Cost constraints also may play a role in determining how much flavor to apply to the coffee, because flavors are relatively expensive, or even very expensive (USD 3,000+ per unit) in case of 100% natural ingredients.

The flavors are usually introduced via a pressurized spray mechanism which breaks the oils into tiny droplets which allows for better mixing. Oils must be added to the beans very gradually to guard against areas of highly concentrated flavor called hot spots. The beans are agitated for a set amount of time to ensure the flavor is evenly spread.

The perfect roast color for flavored coffee is medium to brown.

According to some roasters, after the beans are roasted they must be quickly cooled before flavorings can be added. Flavoring the beans while they are still at high temperatures could destroy some of the flavor compounds. Vice-versa, another ‘school’ says that flavored coffee should be sprayed immediately after roasting, for the best absorption of flavor. Who is right? Every roaster has his own good reasons, experience, lies, and secrets. Nobody will ever share where he finds his mushrooms, right?

Even if the final flavoured coffee must be ground, best flavoured coffees require that flavouring is done before grinding.

And by the way, flavored coffee should never be ground in the same grinder as the not-flavored coffee.

Finally, flavored beans must be stored in a cool, dark place if they are to be used within three or four weeks.

As we have seen, the production of the best flavored coffee is a complex matter. Roaster must give the same care not only to his traditional practice, the roasting, but also to the selection of highest-quality flavoring ingredients. Furthermore, he must be very careful in the recipe of the two ingredients (coffee beans and flavor), and have the flexibility to consider the flavored coffee
not a ‘barbarian’ hybrid, but a brand new weapon to address a different market segment that he would never reach through his classic coffee blends.

Since 1940s, Coffee’IT is an Italian roaster of rare espresso and mocha coffees, marketed through importers, wholesalers, distributors, agents, and coffee professionals.
Visit Coffee’IT at Flavored Coffee for more information.

Author: Andrea Tonacchera
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Belonging to a coffee club is a great joy for lovers of fine coffee. The concept of a coffee club is very recent, but is already revolutionizing the coffee-drinking world. The best coffee in Chicago, St. Louis, San Francisco (and need we mention Seattle) is available with club memberships in these and many other American cities. Joining a coffee club allows you to save lots of money and get in on special deals which are only available to members. Every month you receive a coffee shipment delivered to your door with a surprise selection of great coffees and teas as you choose. This is the best way to introduce yourself and your friends and relations to new coffees, letting you sample different types and discover new brews that you really love. This is a great boon to people who live in rural areas far from the madding crowd but also far from the nearest coffee shop. It’s very convenient not having to run down to the shop for your coffee in the morning and assures you a steady supply.

Coffee clubs are springing up all over the country, and the different clubs offer different choices so it isn’t hard to find a club that fits your tastes and budget. Many of the coffee clubs now offer a coffee of the month option, so in addition to being able to specify your favorite grinds and types you can allow the coffee company to bring you a surprise every month! Some clubs let you specify the flavor you prefer, or you can just go with the flow and let the company make its favorite picks. Usually coffee of the month samples consist of a pound of coffee each time, but you can vary the amount at your discretion. There are coffee clubs which publish newsletters containing interesting articles about the featured coffee of the month, and also recipes and useful hints about making coffee, removing coffee stains, etc. Coffee clubs usually offer a members only discount, thus passing onto the consumer the savings the company enjoys by being able to buy gourmet coffee and tea in bulk with a guaranteed clientele. If some special offering or sale comes up the club members hear about it first through the club newsletter; and coffee clubs often offer gift books of coffee recipes or coffee mugs as gifts.

Coffee clubs usually offer flexible terms of membership. Often you can join for periods of three, six, or twelve months’ memberships; and can specify whether you want ground beans or whole beans; which type of grind you prefer; and whether you want regular or flavored, decaf or caffeinated. There are endless choices available which cater to each individual taste and budget. Membership in a coffee club makes a terrific gift for the coffee lover on your gift list, whether for Christmas, birthday, thank you, or especially as a business gift, which includes a gift card in your name.

For some of the very best coffee in Chicago the place to go is the Intelligentsia coffee company, which offers a wide selection of gourmet coffee and tea. Besides their retail shop on Broadway, Intelligentsia offers one of the most popular coffee of the month programs in the country.

Author: Alice Lane
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Since it’s discovery, coffee has been one of the most sought-after drinks on the planet, mainly for it’s aromatic flavour and pick-me-up qualities.

Until recently, coffee vendors offered few alternatives other than your usual, short black, long black, latte, cappuccino, vienna and variations of these. From mild Italian espresso to thick strong Turkish coffee, the choice of flavour was basically still coffee with milk and sugar.

But today’s coffee consumer has become far more sophisticated. Coffee now comes in just about any flavour, strength or combination to satisfy even the most fastidious consumer. No longer are gourmet coffees only set aside for a rare treat, but an increasing number of people keep gourmet coffees stocked in their cupboards 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 pick-me-up 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 differences in flavour and texture of coffee beans from selected parts of the world with varying climates and elevation and you have the perfect combination for gourmet coffee.

This is what gives gourmet coffee its distinction.

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

Where Can I Buy Gourmet Coffee?

Gourmet coffee is available in most grocery stores but the most convenient way to choose your selection, is to buy online. Numerous gourmet coffee websites are waiting for you to order from their extended range.

Gourmet coffee has become a very popular gift idea. They’re great for housewarming parties and are a very smart business gift. Many vendors, such as Boca Java, offer gift presentations 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 an authority to be excellent. Today, the coffee industry is becoming more like the wine industry, where experts put their credibility on the line to evaluate quality. Bottom line is, if they say it’s good, it must be good. Gourmet coffee has earned its name.

One of the most expensive gourmet coffees, is Jamaican Blue Mountain, mainly because it is so rare due to hurricanes. 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 repute will include Jamaican Blue Mountain on their menu.

The term “gourmet coffee” not only refers to just the coffee itself, but includes all of the aspects, activities, techniques and experience that surrounds that type 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. Can you smell the aroma now?

Peter enjoys great coffee. For more information about online gourmet coffee providers, visit http://bocajavareview.com

Author: Peter Halpin
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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A Coffee Club membership might be great to explore gourmet coffees, or as a gift idea for the coffee lover on your list.

Some information about coffee clubs

Coffee clubs bring gourmet coffee delivered fresh to you and they have some advantages. There are some great home delivery clubs available when you know what to look for, and I’ll tell you bit more about how they work.

First, you will sign up (or sign up your friend or family member as a gift). Most coffee clubs include some sort of bonus when you sign up. Find one that has options you’ll enjoy. You will choose the coffees you want, tell them how often to deliver, and get the coffee through an automatic charge on your credit card. Then wait for the coffees to be delivered to your door, for you to brew in your favorite coffee maker.

If you’re not sure whether you’ll use all of the coffee each month, you should look for a club that allows you to change how often deliveries are made. Not everyone drinks the same amount of coffee, and a monthly delivery might be too frequent for you.

You should also be able to change the coffees you want. Your tastes may change, or you may decide that you’re tired of the particular coffees you’re to receive and want to try something different next month. Be sure you know how you can cancel your membership, and any minimum length of membership.

Choosing the Right Coffee Club

The right coffee membership club is one that has the coffees you want, and the price should fit your budget. Look for a club that offers a broad selection of quality gourmet coffees. Then look at the terms, to make sure that you understand what you’re signing up for, and how you can stop the club if you want to do so.

Here are several home coffee membership clubs that you may want to consider.

The Green Mountain Coffee Cafe EXPRESS Coffee Membership Club

Green Mountain Coffee offers their Cafe Express Club. With Green Mountain, you can be assured of a great selection of coffees (including organic and fair trade) as whole beans, ground coffee or in K-Cups for the Keurig brewers.

Peet’s Coffee & Tea Peetniks

Peet’s is where gourmet coffee brewing started in the USA. Although more people know about Starbucks than Peet’s, Starbucks owes its start in large part to Albert Peet, the immigrant from Amsterdam who decided that coffee in America had a lot of room for improvement and did something about it. Peet’s built its reputation on roasting quality coffees, especially darker roasts. The Peetniks Club, which is what they call the Peet’s membership club, offers you coffee roasted and shipped on the day of your choosing.

Community Coffee

Rivaling Peet’s as the other originator of gourmet coffee in the U.S., Community Coffee has been brewing a rich coffee known as the taste of the south. Community Coffee is now the largest family-owned retail coffee brand in the U.S.

Buying Community Coffee online is the best way to enjoy this distinctively rich coffee unless you live in or visit Louisiana. The Saurage family has been brewing this coffee since 1919, and they apply their generations of roasting experience to produce full-bodied yet smooth flavor.

These are some of my favorite coffee home delivery clubs. You can learn more about coffee clubs at this Coffee Club Comparison Page

DJ Toman is a lawyer and coffee enthusiast living in Greensboro, North Carolina. He is the author of http://www.CoffeeDaydreams.com, a site dedicated to gourmet coffee and choosing the best coffee makers. Even beginners get helpful tips about how to brew and enjoy the coffee of their dreams, for a lifelong adventure exploring specialty coffee. You’ll also find great coffee gift ideas, to find just the right gift or to place on your own wish list.

Author: DJ Toman
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Gourmet coffee gift baskets are perfect for those coffee lovers. These gift baskets have an array of coffees that anyone will like. Choosing gourmet coffee gift baskets is a wonderful gift.

The gourmet coffee gift basket doesn’t have to be just coffee. It can be a mixture of coffee and tea, coffee and cookies or coffee and chocolate. The gourmet coffee gift basked should have a fresh selection of coffees, including flavored coffee choices. Add to that some vanilla, chocolate or cinnamon flavoring and you’ll be set!

You can select different type of cookies to blend in with your gourmet coffee selection. Why not have gourmet cookies with gourmet coffee? If not that, you may want to include a coffee mug or two, a small espresso machine, with cups and espresso coffee. Add some scrumptious biscuits or biscotti to the mix for a tasty treat. In addition to that, you can add hot chocolate mix or tea bags. Decorate it with colored napkins to bring it out. They might even appreciate a notepad or calendar with a coffee-like design.

If you’re buying for a coffee lover who’s into coffee beans, you can learn about it yourself if you don’t know what to get. Gourmet coffee beans, in particular, are of two different kinds, Arabica and Robusta. The majority of the coffee beans are Arabica bred due to the exquisite flavor. Other blends are Robusta and they help gourmet coffee have a kick to it.

The coffee has to be picked and roasted. The color usually turns light brown or dark brown. The lighter colors expound on the flavor, while the darker colors deal with the roasting process. To keep the flavor, the coffee should be in vacuum packed bags.

In order to get the right taste for gourmet coffee, the beans must have a very fine texture and ground up well. Once the coffee has been ground, there are many ways to brew a cup of coffee. No matter whether you prefer espresso, drip, perked, or pressed, you need to start with high-quality gourmet coffee beans to get a good cup of coffee.

You have your choice of having perked, drip or espresso coffee made. In order for the coffee to brew just right, the grounded gourmet beans must be top notch. Gourmet coffee comes in many different blends or dark and light roast coffee. It is also important that the coffee beans are fresh in order to get the best flavor for your coffee.

If you’re not sure about the types of gourmet coffee and beans that can be used, consult with a coffee shop that specializes in this or check online with a company that is knowledgeable with gourmet coffee. Learning information about gourmet coffee and beans will help you greatly when looking for a gift basket.

Gourmet coffee can be enjoyed anytime, during breakfast, lunch, dinner, or anytime. A gourmet coffee gift basket is just the right gift for a coffee lover. They will be pleased and grateful that you thought about getting that for them.

One Source Gift Baskets [http://www.onesourcegiftbaskets.com] has a complete line of Coffee and Tea Gift Baskets [http://www.onesourcegiftbaskets.com/coffee-gift-baskets.html] for all of your gift needs.

Author: Jon Sherwood
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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