Do you know the differences between blended and single-origin coffee ? Comparing coffee blends to single-origin coffees is considered by many experts to be a doomed endeavor, but we'll discuss why this is the case later. To get you started, and in keeping with the principles of education, we'll explain the basic differences between blended and single-origin coffees . This will help you better understand the specifics of both products and help you make informed choices when visiting your favorite coffee shop .

Single origin coffees – homogeneous, with a nuanced flavor palette

The literal translation of the phrase "single origin " is "one source of origin," although in many places you'll encounter single-origin coffees as synonymous with specialty coffees . The connection between these two coffees is not coincidental, although, as our roastery's example demonstrates, the specialty segment is somewhat broader and encompasses more than just single-origin coffees. But let's get back to the main point – single-origin coffees are sourced from a single, specific plantation, meaning they come from a single region, country, or growing area. Furthermore, the proper understanding of single-origin also encompasses the uniformity of botanical varieties and processing methods. By choosing single-origin coffee, you can be sure of its precise traceability .

Traceability is what makes single-origin coffees unique. So, you can expect a more interesting, locally specific flavor – remember that your coffee experience is influenced by factors such as the soil in which the beans were grown, the local microclimate, the altitude at which they were grown, and the company of other plants. This is why, in many regions, single-origin coffees are considered top-of-the-line . Moreover, single-origin coffees are an excellent way to begin your adventure with tasting different brews – the uniformity of the beans teaches you to recognize nuances and allows you to discover your own preferences.

Blended coffees – the mixtures of beans that you are wrongly afraid of

The most important difference between blended and single-origin coffee is that blends are made from several coffee varieties—thus, they are blends, and for some reason, these are considered inferior in our world. Is this right? Coffee roasters are partly responsible for this; until recently, they chose cheaper beans for blends, which, of course, had a direct impact on taste. Consumer attitudes are also important (original origin sounds more luxurious), although this too is shaped by marketing realities.

Meanwhile, blended coffees produced by reputable roasteries are well-thought-out, and therefore complete, products. Unlike single-origin coffees , blends are ideal for coffees prepared using pressure methods – it's easier to achieve crema and cappuccino with a deep flavor. Blended coffees are created with year-round consistency in mind (small changes in the blend's composition only slightly alter the flavor profile), which is crucial because single-origin coffee is a seasonal product. This means less availability of single-origin coffees – they can run out, and the beans themselves can simply become stale. Blends, therefore, provide the consistent quality expected by conscious customers and the greater availability that consumers also value. At the same time, thanks to proper processing of the beans, the aromatic notes of each variety will complement each other, offering the same level of quality as single-origin coffees.

Other differences between single origin coffee and blended coffee

What distinguishes single-origin coffee from blends is availability. Firstly, single-origin specialty coffees are less common , and secondly, they simply cannot be sold on the same scale as blends. This makes single-origin coffee from a good roastery a true luxury item. Another issue is that, due to climate change, coffee is slowly becoming a premium product, affordable only to the wealthiest. Therefore, the type of coffee we buy becomes even more important – whether we support local growers or large corporations that reduce production costs in every possible way. In this case, it becomes less important whether we choose single-origin coffee or a blend. The key factor is the quality of the product, which depends on the cultivation method, the degree of roasting, the skillful blending of different varieties, and the brewing method.

Summary

While the differences between blended and single-origin coffees undoubtedly impact the flavor of the brew , it's not enough to simply claim that single-origin coffees are higher in the coffee hierarchy. The success of the specialty segment is based, among other things, on the diversity of aromas and the uniqueness of the sensory experience. A well- composed blend made with high-quality beans is as worthy of your attention as a unique single-origin coffee from a little-known region of the world. Therefore, it's difficult to definitively determine which coffee is better – much depends on your preferences, but also on your openness to new experiences. Moreover, by choosing coffees from the LaCava roastery, you can be sure that regardless of which variant you choose, you'll receive a high-quality product. You can also count on the recommendations of our coffee experts – each of us has our own favorites among single-origin coffees and blends .