A “BLEND” IS A MIX OF COFFEE BEANS FROM AROUND THE WORLD. A “SINGLE ORIGIN” REFERS TO A COFFEE FROM ONE COUNTRY, COOPERATIVE, OR FARM
When the specialty coffee sector use the term “single origin” on their packaging, they usually mean something more specific—coffees from a single farm, a single cooperative, a group of producers, or a producer and his family. These single-source coffees are often sold as limited or seasonal offerings, and may not be available year-round but they will be sold for as long as the supply lasts and the coffee tastes its best.
When coffee beans—regardless of whether they are single origin or blends—are grown and processed well, shipped carefully, and roasted with respect for the intrinsic flavors of the bean, it is a fantastic celebration of the nuances coffee can offer. Specialty coffee companies pride themselves on this practice, and, as a result, offer coffees of the highest quality.
SAMPLE BLEND
Roasters use blends to create varied flavors. Labels explain where each bean originates from and the quality it brings to the blend—as shown in this illustration of an excellent blend.