The Barista’s Path: From Bean to Cup: Chapter 1

Understanding Coffee Origins: Why Origin Matters in Your Cup

At Cafe Nairobi, we believe every great cup tells a story, a story that begins far before brewing or latte art, rooted in the soil, altitudes, and hands that nurture coffee beans.

Understanding coffee origins is the first step toward becoming a skilled barista, giving you the power to taste, identify, and appreciate the complexity in every cup.

 Why Does Origin Matter?

The origin of a coffee, where it was grown, the altitude, soil composition, and climate, influence bean density, acidity, sweetness, and flavor notes.

For example:

• Kenyan coffees often feature bright acidity with notes of blackcurrant, citrus, and florals.
• Ethiopian coffees may showcase jasmine, bergamot, or blueberry.
• Colombian coffees tend toward chocolate and caramel sweetness with balanced acidity.

Understanding these differences allows you to:
✅ Choose beans that align with your taste
✅ Adjust your brewing methods to highlight specific flavors
✅ Appreciate the work of farmers and cooperatives behind your coffee

Explore our Kenyan coffee collection to experience these vibrant flavors.

Factors Influencing Flavor

1. Altitude
   Higher altitudes slow cherry ripening, leading to denser beans with complex acidity. Most specialty coffees are grown between 1,200 and 2,000 meters above sea level.
2. Soil and Climate
   Volcanic soils (common in Kenya) contribute minerals that enhance bean structure and flavor development, while consistent rainfall and sunshine allow even ripening.
3. Varietal
   Different coffee plant varieties (SL28, SL34 in Kenya) yield distinct profiles and resilience to climate challenges.
4. Processing Method

• • Washed (common in Kenya) results in clean, bright flavors.
  • Natural (sun-dried with fruit on) yields fruity, heavier-bodied profiles.
  • Honey-processed balances clarity and fruit sweetness.

How to Taste the Origin in Your Coffee

As you brew and taste:
✅ Note the acidity: Is it bright like citrus or soft like stone fruit?
✅ Identify sweetness: Is it sugarcane-like, honeyed, or chocolatey?
✅ Observe body: Is it light, silky, or full-bodied?
✅ Find unique notes: Blackcurrant, floral, spice, or cocoa.

Using cupping techniques (covered in Episode 5), you can refine your palate to distinguish origins and even processing differences.

Brewing to Highlight Origin

Pour-Over and AeroPress brewing methods are ideal for showcasing origin clarity and brightness. You can adjust:

• Grind size
• Brew temperature (195–205°F)
• Brew ratio (1:15 to 1:17)

to highlight the acidity and floral notes often found in Kenyan coffees.

For brewing guides, explore these references:

• PT’s Pour Over Brew Guide
• Guide to AeroPress – Counter Culture Coffee

Ready to Explore Kenyan Coffee Origins?

As you embark on your barista journey:
✅ Pick a Kenyan single-origin coffee
✅ Brew with your preferred method
✅ Note the tasting profile
✅ Share your experience with us on facebook @CafeNairobi

Start today by exploring our Kenyan coffee collection and taste the vibrant story of our farmers and regions in every cup.

Next in the Series:

Chapter 2: Mastering Your Beans: Storage, Grinding, and Freshness – Learn how to maintain bean quality and how grind size shapes your brewing success.