From plant to your cup

The journey of coffee from plant to cup is a fascinating process that involves multiple stages and careful attention to detail.

Harvesting

It all begins with the coffee plant, which takes about 3-4 years to mature and produce its first fruit, known as coffee cherries.

Freshly harvested coffee cherries. Source: Wikimedia Commons

When the cherries ripen to a bright, deep red color, they are ready for harvesting. In India, this is always done by hand in a labor-intensive process, with skilled pickers selecting only the ripest cherries. Thus the promise of quality starts right from harvesting.

After harvesting, the cherries must be processed quickly to prevent spoilage. This involves removing the pulp from the beans, which can be done through either a dry or wet method, depending on the region and available resources. The beans are then dried until they reach the ideal moisture content.

Dried coffee beans with parchment still on. Source: Wikimedia Commons

Green Coffee

Once dried, the beans undergo milling to remove any remaining layers of skin and are sorted by size and quality. At this stage, the beans are referred to as "green coffee" and are ready for export.

Two samples of green beans. Source: Wikimedia Commons

We work directly with the source and import the highest quality Indian origin coffee to the Netherlands.

Roasting

The next crucial step is roasting, which transforms the green beans into the aromatic brown beans we are familiar with. Roasting typically occurs between 175°C and 250°C, with the beans kept in constant motion to ensure even roasting. This process, known as pyrolysis, is responsible for developing the coffee's flavor and aroma.

A typical drum coffee roasting machine. Source: Wikimedia Commons

We roast our coffee in small batches, frequently, in Amsterdam, so that you always receive the freshly roasted beans.

After roasting, the beans are quickly cooled, and left to rest for a day. Then they are packed in eco-friendly coffee pouches with valves to allow "de-gasing". Roasted coffee produces CO2 for many days, which must be allowed to escape while outside air must not be let inside as this degrades the subtle coffee flavors.

We also grind some amount of beans. The grind size is crucial, as it affects the extraction rate and ultimately the flavor of the brewed coffee. We select the grind size according to your order.

Whether you ordered whole beans or ground coffee, you'll receive your fresh coffee within a few days of roasting.

Brewing

There are numerous brewing methods, each producing a unique flavor profile. From pour-over and French press to espresso machines, and our favorite - the south Indian filter coffee. The choice of brewing method allows you, the coffee lover, to customize your experience.

South Indian filter coffee served in traditional brass tumbler and dabra. Source: Wikimedia Commons

This journey from seed to cup involves the hard work and expertise of farmers, processors, we the exporters and roasters, and finally you the end consumer, all contributing to the complex and delightful beverage we enjoy daily. The next time you sip your coffee, take a moment to appreciate the incredible journey it has undergone to reach your cup.