FAQ
Find answers to common questions about coffee brewing, beans, storage, and more. Can't find what you're looking for? Get in touch.
How long do coffee beans last?
Unopened coffee beans last 6-9 months in a cool, dark place. Once opened, use within 2-4 weeks for optimal freshness. After 4 weeks, the beans lose significant flavour and aroma.
What's the best way to store coffee beans?
Store in an airtight container away from light, heat, and moisture. Room temperature is ideal. Avoid refrigeration as moisture can degrade the beans. Never freeze whole beans.
What's the difference between light and dark roast?
Light roasts have more caffeine and brighter, fruitier flavours. Dark roasts are bolder, less acidic, with chocolatey notes. The roast level doesn't affect quality—it's personal preference.
How do I brew espresso at home?
- Use fresh beans (within 4 weeks of roast)
- Grind to fine consistency (like table salt)
- Dose 18-20g for a double shot
- Tamp with even 30lbs pressure
- Extract 25-30 seconds for 25-30ml yield
Pro tip: Our Alpha Blend is perfect for espresso.
What grind size do I need for different brewing methods?
- Espresso: Fine (table salt)
- Pour over: Medium-fine
- French Press: Coarse (sea salt)
- Cold Brew: Extra coarse
- Drip coffee: Medium
Under-extraction = sour. Over-extraction = bitter.
How much caffeine is in a shot of espresso?
A single shot of espresso contains 63mg of caffeine on average. A double shot has about 125mg. This is less than a typical 8oz drip coffee (95mg) due to the smaller serving size.
What is the best water temperature for brewing coffee?
The ideal water temperature is 90-96°C (195-205°F). Water that's too hot (over 96°C) extracts bitter compounds. Water that's too cool (under 90°C) produces weak, sour coffee.
How do I know when my espresso extraction is right?
A proper extraction takes 25-30 seconds and produces 25-30ml for a double shot. The crema should be golden-brown with tiger striping. Sour means under-extracted; bitter means over-extracted.
What is the difference between Arabica and Robusta?
Arabica is smoother, sweeter, with complex fruit and berry notes. Robusta is stronger, more bitter, with higher caffeine. Most specialty coffee uses Arabica. We use 100% Arabica beans.
Do you offer wholesale coffee for businesses?
Yes! We offer wholesale coffee for cafes, offices, and retail businesses. Visit our Wholesale page for details or contact us for a custom quote. We provide freshly roasted beans with flexible delivery schedules.
What is single origin coffee?
Single origin means beans from one specific country, region, or farm. It showcases unique terroir characteristics. Blends combine beans from multiple origins for consistent flavour profiles.
How should I clean my espresso machine?
- Backflush daily with cleaning solution
- Clean portafilter and group head after each use
- Descale every 2-3 months
- Clean steam wands after each use
Regular cleaning ensures optimal taste and extends machine life.
What is the best coffee bean for espresso?
Look for beans roasted within the last 4 weeks, labeled for espresso. Our Alpha Blend is specifically designed for rich, balanced espresso with chocolate notes. Freshly roasted beans always perform best.
Can I use expired coffee beans?
Expired beans won't make you sick but will taste flat and stale. Beyond 6 months unopened, the flavour is significantly degraded. Check the roast date—not expiration date—for freshness.
How do I start a coffee subscription?
Visit our Coffee Beans page to choose your preferred blend and delivery frequency. We offer weekly, fortnightly, or monthly deliveries. Skip or cancel anytime. Freshly roasted to your door.
Still have questions? Get in touch — we're happy to help!