So you like coffee, but not sure where to start with specialty coffee?

You enjoy a good coffee, and you want to explore the world of specialty coffee?
This web site is a great place to start - but perhaps it's a little confusing, and hard to know what to choose?
Fine coffee is a lot like fine wine, but like wine, it can hard to know where to start exploring.

So, this page is to help you work out a good place to start!

The first thing you may have noticed is that the Roasted Coffee category is set out by region (South America, Indonesia, etc). This is because each region produces coffee with particular qualities and characteristics.
Don't be too put off by this - you can just browse through the individual descriptions of each origin and choose the description that appeals to you. Those descriptions are fairly self-explanatory, but some can be like certain wine descriptions - a little obtuse to those new to the field!

You may have also noticed a category called 'Special Reserve Coffees' - these are exceptional quality single origin beans with unique character and qualities. Wonderful coffee - but perhaps not the best starting point for someone exploring quality coffee.

So where to start?

If you are simply looking for fine coffee that tastes like, well, fine coffee, you could start with:

• Ministry Grounds House Blend. This is a solid, good all-round blend that works in a variety of brewing methods. It contains beans from Brazil, Indonesia, Ethiopia and Kenya.
   
• Brazil Daterra 'Sweet Collection'. Many Brazils are a bit bland to drink on their own, But this staple at Ministry Grounds is a fine Brazil with enough complexity and a delightful natural sweetness that is a very nice drink on it's own. This also works well in a variety of brewing methods, and even satisfies as a flat white or cappucino.

But don't stop there. Try some other single origins from different regions, being guided by the description. Once you've worked out what you like (or don't like!), you can progress to coffees with more character and different flavour profiles.

I'm always happy to chat about coffee and try and help with suggestions - use the contact form to drop me a line...

Neil Atwood
Ministry Grounds Coffee