The Definitive Guide to Supermarket Coffee: Taste Tests, Ratings, and Ethical Shopping
Table of Contents
- Key Highlights
- Introduction
- The Art of Coffee Tasting
- Supermarket Standouts: Exceptional Varieties
- Navigating Supermarket Aisles: What to Look For
- FAQ
Key Highlights
- Mixed Quality: Supermarket coffee often disappoints, typically suffering from staleness and harsh roasting, though some exceptional brands defy expectations.
- Price vs. Quality: Expensive supermarket coffees do not consistently deliver superior flavor, and often, buying from independent roasters online yields better quality.
- Best Picks: A variety of delightful coffee options are available, ranging from specialty Ugandan robusta to Fairtrade options that are both delicious and ethically sourced.
Introduction
Amidst the aroma of fresh-brewed coffee fills the culinary landscape, many coffee enthusiasts lament the disappointing offerings found in supermarkets. Common complaints center around stale, over-roasted beans that lack depth and character, often imparting harsh notes of rubber and burnt ash. However, not all hope is lost. In a recent tasting endeavor, a collection of lighter roast coffees from the supermarket aisle revealed hidden gems that challenge the typical narratives surrounding grocery store brews. This article delves into the findings from rigorous taste tests, emphasizes the importance of ethical sourcing, and provides tips for navigating the often overwhelming selection of supermarket coffee.
The Art of Coffee Tasting
Understanding coffee requires far more than merely brewing and sipping. It delves into agriculture, sustainability, and culinary artistry, parameters that significantly affect the flavor in your cup. To provide insights into the world of coffee, I enlisted the expertise of Will Whiting, founder of Calm Coffee Roastery, who guided a structured cupping session—an industry-standard method for assessing coffee quality.
Whiting’s expertise made for an enlightening experience, during which we evaluated various supermarket offerings. Each coffee was measured and steeped, allowing us to analyze aromas before tasting. Breaking the crust of grounds released aromatic gases that hinted at each brew's character. With detailed notes taken on acidity, body, and flavor nuances, we began to uncover the truth behind supermarket coffees.
Supermarket Standouts: Exceptional Varieties
Against the backdrop of a greater understanding of coffee quality, we discovered a range of supermarket coffees that shone amid less palatable offerings. Below are some of the noteworthy options examined.
Best All-Rounder: Blue Turaco Ground Coffee
Price: £6.25 for 227g at Waitrose
A specialty Ugandan robusta, Blue Turaco offers a surprisingly malty sweetness punctuated by hints of caramel and a bright hazelnut finish. Its unique sourcing model supports local communities by ensuring fair pay and providing school meals funded per sale. This initiative exemplifies how flavor and ethical considerations can coexist harmoniously.
Asda Extra Special Brazilian Ground Coffee
Price: £3.98 for 227g at Asda
This coffee is an excellent example of quality meeting affordability. Smelling of toasted bread and chocolate, it delivers a smooth cup with medium-low acidity and subtle nuttiness, earning it a Rainforest Alliance certification, which attests to its sustainable practices.
Café Direct Fairtrade Organic Mayan Gold
Price: £5 for 200g at Ocado
Featuring a fruity visibility with hints of dark chocolate, this coffee is Fairtrade-certified, ensuring ethical sourcing and production. The blend embodies a complex flavor profile that resonates well with those seeking depth, while its smoothness makes it approachable for various brewing methods.
Volcano Coffee Works Bold Colombia
Price: £6.95 for 200g at Ocado
A blend of Colombian arabica with an intensely bold character, this coffee showcases deep, leathery flavors and robust aromas. It’s crafted sustainably by a B Corp certified company, indicating adherence to ethical practices throughout the supply chain.
Lavazza Qualità Rossa
Price: £5.40 for 250g at Asda
An Italian classic, this coffee blends robusta and arabica beans from both South America and Africa. Its distinct aromas evoke vegetal and dark chocolate notes, while its flavor profile offers an intense experience that suits moka pot preparation best.
CRU Kafe Organic Fairtrade Colombian
Price: £6 for 227g at Ocado
This single-origin Colombian coffee brings savory aromas to the forefront, featuring rounded flavors with a full body. As a B Corp certified, organic and Fairtrade coffee, it offers ethical certification that complements its rich flavor.
M&S Jump Start Ground Coffee
Price: £3.60 for 227g at Ocado
Unfortunately, not all coffees are created equal, and this blend stands as a cautionary tale. Described as reminiscent of burnt rubber with an overwhelmingly ashy flavor, it highlights the disparity in quality present in supermarket offerings.
Navigating Supermarket Aisles: What to Look For
The journey through supermarket coffee aisles can be overwhelming, but a keen eye can make the task easier. Here are critical aspects to consider when selecting your next cup of joe:
Roast Levels and Flavor Notes
Coffee can be broadly classified into different roast levels: light, medium, and dark. Light roasts tend to offer bright, fruity flavors, while darker roasts yield richer, bolder tastes. Understanding your preference will help narrow down choices.
Certifications Matter
Look for certifications such as Fairtrade, organic, and Rainforest Alliance. These labels not only indicate quality in sourcing but also reflect ethical and sustainable practices in coffee production.
Freshness
Always seek out coffee with clear roasting dates. Freshly roasted beans deliver unparalleled flavor, while old or stale coffee can not only taste flat but may also harbor undesirable flavors.
Price Considerations
Supermarket coffee pricing often creates a perception that higher prices correlate with superior quality. However, as evidenced by our tasting findings, many lower-priced offerings yield excellent flavor. It’s worthwhile to experiment rather than defaulting to premium packages.
FAQ
What is the best supermarket coffee?
Based on taste tests, Blue Turaco ground coffee stands out as an all-rounder, with its unique flavor profile and commitment to social initiatives.
Why does supermarket coffee tend to taste stale?
Coffee’s flavor deteriorates quickly after roasting. Many supermarkets may not stock fresh products or prioritize fast sales over quality.
Are Fairtrade coffees worth the price?
Fairtrade coffees generally promise ethical sourcing, which benefits both growers and consumers by promoting better trading conditions. While they may be slightly more expensive, they often provide better flavor profiles and assure more sustainable practices.
How can I tell if coffee is fresh?
Check for a roasting date on the package. The best coffee is ideally consumed within a few weeks of roasting, so be wary of brands without clear packing information.
How do I brew the best cup at home?
Pay attention to grind size, brewing method, and water temperature. Experiment with different grinds for your preferred coffee maker—e.g., coarse for French presses and finer for espresso—to optimize your brewing method.
Exploring the world of supermarket coffee can lead to uncovering delightful options that challenge the misconception of poor quality. With a discerning palate and awareness of sustainable practices, anyone can elevate their coffee experience without breaking the bank. Shift your coffee routine towards exploration, and you may find your new favorite brew waiting right on the store shelves.