When you hear the word coffee, chances are you think of relaxed moments in your favorite java joint, sipping a cup of gourmet brew while talking to a close friend or one you haven't seen in awhile.
Feelings like these are just part of the reason it's so important to choose the right coffee bean to suit your specific taste.
People's tastes are as different and unique as the beans themselves, and where some may prefer the rich blend of kona, others may prefer the earthy taste of organic instead.
Not all blends tastes the same, and like wine, there are many different varieties and flavors that make each blend different.
Traditional coffee, for example, has a taste that is slightly acidic, bitter and strong while flavored coffee has fruit incorporated into the taste.
It's true that any cup can be made to taste by adding just the right amounts of cream or sugar, but you should first try to choose a gourmet blend that has the underlying taste that you prefer.
Flavors can vary depending on the region, and location where it is grown can have an impact on how the beans taste once they are brewed.
Take, columbian for example, this taste is more acidic and stronger than the milder blends that come from Brazil.
There are, quite literally, dozens of coffee-growing regions throughout the world, and while it may seem confusing, it can actually be a lot of fun trying out new and different varieties of gourmet offerings to find the right blend for you.
Since coffee beans can, and do vary in strength and intensity, the general rule of thumb is that the darker the bean, the stronger the flavor will be.
Typically, blends range from light to dark, with the darker blends packing a much stronger punch.
There are those individuals that prefer theirs black and enjoy the enjoy the increased amounts of caffeine, while others prefer a lighter taste that's easier on the palette.
Chances are, if you generally don't like strong flavors with your everyday meals, you will not enjoy a strong blend.