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Understanding the Differences in Coffee Flavor: How to Choose and Enjoy A Perfect Cup

2025/01/31

2025/03/01

The flavor of coffee varies depending on its origin and roasting. Elements such as acidity, bitterness, sweetness, and body combine to create each coffee's unique personality.
For those who want to "find the perfect coffee for themselves" or "learn about the flavor differences by region," we have compiled the characteristics of various flavors, tips for selection, and recommended ways to enjoy coffee.

1. Four Elements that Determine Coffee Flavor

The taste of coffee is influenced by the balance of acidity, bitterness, sweetness, and body. Understanding each characteristic can provide hints for selecting your preferred cup.

① Acidity: A Fresh and Light Impression

• Representative Regions: Ethiopia, Kenya, Yunnan Coffee (Yunnan Province, China)
• Characteristics: Fruity aromas of citrus and berries
• Recommended Ways to Enjoy:
o Drink it black → Experience the fruity acidity directly
o Use a light roast for hand drip → The floral aroma stands out
Yunnan coffee, which has recently garnered attention, possesses a fruity acidity similar to that of Ethiopian and Kenyan coffees, making it very approachable.

② Bitterness: A Rich and Deep Flavor

• Representative Regions: Indonesia (Mandheling), French Roast
• Characteristics: Strong bitterness and body
• Recommended Ways to Enjoy:
o French press → Allows you to fully experience the body
o Cafe latte (with milk) → The deep bitterness combined with the creaminess of milk is exquisite

③ Sweetness: Mild and Gentle Flavor

• Representative Regions: Brazil, Guatemala
• Characteristics: Natural sweetness reminiscent of nuts and caramel
• Recommended Ways to Enjoy:
o Drink it black or with a small amount of sugar → Naturally brings out the sweetness
o Cafe au lait → Enjoy an even gentler sweetness by combining with milk

④ Body: Rich and Complex Flavor

• Representative Regions: Colombia, Sumatra
• Characteristics: Deep flavor with a lingering finish
• Recommended Ways to Enjoy:
o Espresso → Allows you to savor the depth of body
o Americano (diluted with hot water) → Enjoy the rich flavor in a softer way

2. Coffee Flavor Distribution Chart: Finding Coffee That Suits Your Taste

The flavor of coffee can be classified based on the balance of "acidity × bitterness" and "sweetness × body."
• Strong Acidity (Fruity Flavor)
Ethiopia, Kenya, Yunnan Coffee
• Strong Sweetness (Mild Flavor)
Guatemala, Brazil
• Strong Body (Rich Flavor)
Colombia, Sumatra
• Strong Bitterness (Bitter Flavor)
Mandheling, French Roast
→ For example, if you prefer "refreshing acidity," you might choose Ethiopian or Yunnan coffee; if you enjoy "strong bitterness," Mandheling would be a good option.

3. [Taste Assessment] Recommended Coffee and Ways to Enjoy It for You

By answering the following questions, you can discover which coffee suits you best and how to enjoy it.

✅ Q1. I like a refreshing citrus flavor.
➡ Coffee with acidity (Ethiopia, Kenya, Yunnan Coffee)
● Recommended Ways to Enjoy: Black or Hand Drip

✅ Q2. I prefer coffee with a strong bitterness.
➡ Coffee with strong bitterness (Mandheling, Dark Roast)
● Recommended Ways to Enjoy: French Press or Cafe Latte

✅ Q3. I enjoy mild coffee with a hint of sweetness.
➡ Sweet coffee (Guatemala, Brazil)
● Recommended Ways to Enjoy: Black with a small amount of sugar or Cafe au Lait

✅ Q4. I seek a coffee with deep body and richness.
➡ Coffee with body (Colombia, Sumatra)
● Recommended Ways to Enjoy: Espresso or Americano

→ Using this assessment, please try out the coffee that suits you best and the optimal way to enjoy it.

4. Summary | Enjoy Coffee That Suits You

✅ Coffee flavors can be classified as "acidity, bitterness, sweetness, and body."
✅ Using the flavor distribution chart makes it easier to choose.
✅ Through the preference assessment, you can find coffee that suits you.
✅ Tasting, comparing, and experimenting with brewing methods can further enhance your enjoyment.