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Flavour
The collective impression of aroma, acidity and body. "Flavourful" coffee yields a strong, fine and pleasant impression. Can also refer to specific taste flavours such as; nuts, chocolate or spices.
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Acidity
The liveliness and 'snap' of coffee that makes it refreshing and palate-cleansing. Characteristic of high grown coffees, providing a sharp quality. Low acid coffees taste flat and dull.
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Body
The texture and weight of the brewed coffee in the mouth. May be strong but pleasant, and ranges from full to light and thin. Can also be buttery and syrupy in some Central American coffees.
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Aroma
The fragrance or odour of brewed coffee. Terms include; floral, caramelly, carbony, malty, rich, rounded or spicy and are distinctive as to character.
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Bitter
An undesirable, harsh taste. Can indicate over extracted brews and taste defects. Yet, is sometimes intentional in dark roasts.
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Earthy
An undesirable dirt odour and flavour taint often identified with cheaper robusta beans. Can indicate poor processing, but is also associated with nutty, mocha flavours.
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Exotic
Common to East African coffees and refers to unusual aromas and flavours. Includes; sweet, floral, berry and spice-like characteristics.
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Mellow
Implies low to medium acidity, yielding a well-balanced, "full" coffee.
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Mild
Commonly refers to all Arabica except Brazils. Indicates a coffee with a delicate, harmonious flavour.
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Spicy
Used to describe coffees that exhibit aromas or flavours similar to certain spices. Guatemala Antigua has an almost peppery quality.
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Strong
Indicates the presence of both virtues and defects in a coffee. Commonly associated with dark roasted beans, with no relation to caffeine content.
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Sweet
A General term for smooth coffee lacking harsh flavours. A palatable coffee, free of defects.
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Tangy
A General term for smooth coffee lacking harsh flavours. A palatable coffee, free of defects.
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Wild
Coffees displaying extreme flavour qualities. May be positive or negative and implies racy flavour and aroma nuances.
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Winey
A desirable flavour paralleling a fine quality red wine. Interesting flavours are yielded by contrasting acidity and smooth body.
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