Coffee Guide: How to choose the right coffee beans

Choosing the right coffee beans can make a big difference to the flavour in your cup. With so many different origins, roast levels and flavor profiles available, it can sometimes be difficult to know which coffee to choose.

In this guide, we explain what influences the taste of coffee and how you can find coffee beans that match both your taste preferences and your brewing method.

What affects the taste of coffee?

The flavor of coffee is influenced by several different factors. Some of the most important include:

• the origin of the coffee

• how the coffee is processed after harvest

• how the coffee is roasted

• how the coffee is brewed

This is why two different coffee beans can taste completely different, even if they are brewed in the same way.

In our webshop you can find a range of coffee beans from different origins – from fruity Ethiopian coffees to more chocolatey beans from Central America.

Origin and region

The origin of coffee often has a strong influence on its flavor profile.

Some typical examples include:

Ethiopia
Often fruity and floral coffees with notes of berries or citrus.

Central America
Balanced coffees with notes of chocolate, nuts and caramel.

Brazil
Full-bodied coffee with low acidity and clear chocolatey notes.

If you enjoy fruity and aromatic coffees, for example, a coffee such as Ethiopia Yirgacheffe can be a great choice.

Roast level

The roast level also has a significant impact on how coffee tastes.

Light roast
Highlights the origin of the coffee and often brings out more acidity and fruity notes.

Medium roast
Creates a balanced cup with sweetness, body and aroma.

Dark roast
Produces a fuller body and stronger roasted flavors such as chocolate or caramel.

In our roastery we mostly work with medium roasts, as they often provide a great balance between the coffee’s natural aromas and a rich flavor in the cup.

Brewing method

Different brewing methods can also influence which coffee beans work best.

For example:

• Pour over often works well with fruity and aromatic coffees

• Espresso often pairs well with fuller, more chocolatey flavor profiles

• French press works well with coffees that have a bit more body

If you would like to learn more about brewing methods, you can also read our guides on how to brew pour over coffee and how much coffee per cup.

Flavor profile

When choosing coffee beans, it can be helpful to think about which flavors you prefer.

If you enjoy coffee that is:

Fruity and aromatic
→ try coffees from Ethiopia or Kenya.

Chocolatey and balanced
→ coffees from Central America or Brazil are often a good choice.

Full-bodied and intense
→ darker roasts or espresso blends can be a great option.

Trying coffees from different origins is often the best way to discover your personal favorites.

Tips when choosing coffee beans

Here are a few simple tips that can help you choose the right coffee:

• buy whole coffee beans and grind them yourself

• choose coffee that has been roasted relatively recently

• try different origins and roast levels

If you want to get the best flavor from your coffee, you can also read our guide on how to grind coffee beans.

Coffee beans from our roastery

At our roastery in Småland, we roast coffee in small batches. Here are a few examples of coffee beans from our selection:

• Ethiopia Yirgacheffe

• Colombia Las Flores

• Marija extra dark roast from Brazil

These coffees represent different flavor profiles and are a great way to start exploring different types of coffee.

Frequently asked questions about coffee beans

How do you know which coffee beans to choose?

A good starting point is to think about which flavor profile you enjoy – for example fruity, chocolatey or full-bodied coffee.

Are whole coffee beans better than ground coffee?

Yes, whole beans retain their aromas for longer. For the best flavor, it’s recommended to grind your coffee just before brewing.

How fresh should coffee beans be?

Coffee often tastes best within a few weeks after roasting, especially if it is stored in an airtight container.

More coffee guides

Want to learn more about coffee? These guides can help you explore further:

• Arabica vs Robusta – what’s the difference →

• Which coffee beans are best for espresso →

• Which coffee is the least acidic →

See all our coffee guides →

Find our coffee here →

At our roastery in Småland we roast coffee in small batches.
Here you can find our full range of coffee beans.