Which coffee should you choose when you're starting out?
Exploring the world of coffee can seem daunting at first: between the many varieties of beans, the different brewing methods, and the sometimes technical terms, it's easy to get lost. This guide is here to help you choose the right coffee when you're just starting out , without any hassle. Ready to enjoy your first real cup? ☕️
1. Understand the major coffee families
Arabica
- Sweet, slightly acidic taste, often more aromatic
- Less caffeine than Robusta
- Ideal for sensitive palates or lovers of sweetness
Robusta
- Stronger, more bitter, often more “powerful” taste
- Higher caffeine content
- Often used for espressos or strong coffees
➡️ Recommendation: Start with an Arabica , which is milder and more accessible.
2. Ground coffee, beans or capsules?
Ground coffee
Ready to use, convenient, ideal for beginners. However, it loses its aroma more quickly once opened.
Coffee beans
Fresher and tastier, but requires a grinder. Better for progressing in the world of coffee.
Capsule coffee
Ultra-practical but more expensive and less eco-friendly. Perfect for testing without the hassle.
➡️ Recommended: Start with ground Arabica coffee .
3. Which roasting should I choose?
- Light roast : fruity, acidic taste – for mild methods (filter)
- Medium roast : perfect balance – ideal for beginners
- Dark roast : bitter and full-bodied taste – for espressos
➡️ Tip: Choose a medium roast to start off well.
4. Test different origins
- Brazil : sweet, chocolatey
- Ethiopia : floral, fruity
- Colombia : round, balanced
- India / Vietnam : more earthy, more full-bodied
➡️ Tip: Taste several origins with a discovery pack.
5. Which infusion method should I choose?
☕ Filter coffee maker
Ideal for: mild morning coffee
Complexity: Easy
Taste: Light, aromatic
☕ French press (piston)
Ideal for: smooth coffee
Complexity: Easy
Taste: Rich, round, without bitterness
☕ Espresso
Ideal for: short, strong coffee
Complexity: Medium
Taste: Full-bodied, concentrated
☕ Moka (Italian)
Ideal for: strong homemade coffee
Complexity: Medium
Taste: Bitter, rich
➡️ To start: a filter coffee maker or a French press are ideal.
6. Some brands to try when you're starting out
- Artisanal : The Coffee Tree, Terres de Café, Café Michel
- General public : Carte Noire Bio, Lavazza Qualità Oro, Illy Classico
Conclusion
If you're just starting out, start with a medium-roasted ground Arabica coffee from Brazil or Colombia, brewed in a drip coffee maker. Don't be afraid to explore! Every cup is a new discovery.
🎁 Looking for the perfect coffee to get you started? Discover our Arabica discovery pack, specially designed for new coffee lovers.