National Gourmet Coffee Day – January 18, 2025

National Gourmet Coffee Day is observed annually on January 18. There are several great coffees available in the market but gourmet coffee is something exceptional. Gourmet coffee stands out from your regular coffee because of its quality and consistency, which comes from its special beans and creation.

History of National Gourmet Coffee Day

There is no particular origin of coffee which can be pinpointed. Coffee’s history has been wrapped in myths and theories, however, what is true is it has been enjoyed for centuries.

It is said that the ancestors of the Oromo people in Ethiopia’s Jimma region discovered the coffee plant’s energizing power. Nevertheless, there is no detailed evidence that coffee was first grown before the century or even where it was first cultivated.

There is proof of the consumption of coffee or awareness of the coffee tree in Yemeni Sufi monasteries as early as the 16th century, which rapidly spread to Mecca and Medina. It had already spread to the Middle East, South India (Karnataka), Persia, Turkey, and northern Africa by the 16th century.

Later, coffee was spread throughout the Balkans, Italy, Europe, and Southeast Asia. Due to having the ability to provide instant energy, coffee has quickly become popular and has conquered areas of the world and hearts since then.

Over time, a simple cup of coffee is transformed to match several palates and purposes. Today, you can find coffee like frappuccinos and cold brews to espresso shots and even espresso martinis, anywhere and everywhere and however, you like.

This is how gourmet coffee was born. Gourmet coffee is made using 100% Arabica beans which require a cool subtropical climate at a higher altitude to thrive. Similarly, it also provides smooth, rich and aromatic brews that regular beans cannot match.

For coffee lovers, it is a must-try for coffee as it offers more luxury in terms of taste, production, and intensity than typical coffee. National Gourmet Coffee Day is a celebration of this caffeine celebrity, and we cheer for it!

Also read, National Curried Chicken Day – January 12, 2025

Timeline of National Gourmet Coffee Day

5 Different Types Of Coffee You Must Try

1. Arabica: Arabica is one of the most popular and widely consumed coffee beans. It is a popular choice of people because of its smooth, nuanced flavours and pleasant acidity. It is mostly grown at higher altitudes in regions such as Latin America, Africa, and Asia. Arabica beans offer a diverse range of flavour profiles, from fruity and floral to chocolaty and nutty. According to research, these beans have a low caffeine profile of 0.8% to 1.4%. It is beneficial for people averse to caffeine.
2. Robusta: Robusta beans offer bold, strong flavour and higher caffeine content compared to Arabica beans. These beans are usually used in espresso blends to impart a rich crema and a strong, earthy taste. Robusta is grown at lower altitudes. It is mostly found in regions like Africa and Southeast Asia. We add 2% of Robusta in our coffee to add a rich bold flavour.
3. Liberica: Liberica beans provide a distinctively fruity and floral flavour profile with hints of woody and smoky notes. It was originated in West Africa and characterized by its larger size and asymmetrical shape. This makes the a unique addition to any coffee aficionado’s collection.
4. Excelsa: Excelsa was formerly classified as a variety of Liberica. Since then it has been recognized as a distinct species. These beans are best known for their complex flavour profile, which often features fruity, spicy, and tart notes. Primarily, Excleasa beans are grown in Southeast Asia and are often used to enhance the depth and complexity of blends.
5. Typica: Typica is considered one of the oldest cultivated varieties of coffee. Typica beans are best known for their delicate flavour and mild acidity. This bean originated from Yemen and has a smooth, well-balanced profile with subtle floral and fruity notes. Though these beans are less grown than Arabica and Robusta, it is highly valued by coffee connoisseurs for their quality and consistency.

Five Interesting Facts About Coffee

1. Coffee is a Fruit: Many people think coffee beans are real beans, But they are the seeds of coffee cherries which are berry-like fruits produced by the coffee plant.  Each cherry usually contains two seeds.
2. Brazil’s Dominance: In the world, Brazil produces the largest number of coffee, supplying about one-third of the global coffee market. This production is remarkably higher than that of Vietnam which is the second-largest producer.
3. Historical Bans on Coffee: Did you know that coffee had to face multiple attempts at prohibition throughout history? Governor Mecaa tried to outlaw coffee in 1511, fearing it stimulated radical thinking. Likewise, similar bans were also attempted in several areas such as the Ottoman Empire and Sweden.
4. The World’s Most Expensive Coffee: Kopi luwak is the most expensive coffee with a price is more than $600 per pound. This unique coffee is made from coffee cherries that have been consumed and excreted by civets giving it a distinctive flavor profile to the coffee.
5. Health Benefits: Consuming moderate coffee which is about three to four cups per day, has been associated with several health benefits, such as a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and a longer lifespan.

Frequently Ask Question

What is the difference between gourmet coffee and speciality coffee?

Speciality coffee is rated on a scale and must score 80 points or above out of 100, whereas gourmet coffee is defined by its use of high-quality Arabica beans.

What is the best coffee-to-water ratio for brewing?

The general guideline, called ‘Golden Ratio,’ recommends using one to two tablespoons of ground coffee for every six ounces of water.

How can I celebrate National Gourmet Coffee Day?

You can celebrate by enjoying a cup of gourmet coffee at a local café, making gourmet coffee at home, or experimenting with gourmet coffee in recipes.

What types of coffee beans should I try?

You can try Arabica, Robusta, Liberica, Excelsa, and Bourbon, each offering unique flavours and characteristics.

When is National Gourmet Coffee Day celebrated?

National Gourmet Coffee Day is celebrated annually on January 18.

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