Age Coffee

Characteristics

• Moisture: Max 13%
• Defect Value: As per the sample
• Origin: Batak Highland/Gayo Highland
• Altitude: 1200 to 1700 from Sea Level (asl)
• Screen Size: 13-19
• Color: Brown
• Crop: Age

About Age Coffee

In its early development, coffee beans took about 6 months or more after the harvest before reaching coffee enthusiasts. It was in the 1500s when coffee beans made their first journey across the ocean to Europe, shipped through the port of Mocha in what is now Yemen.

At that time, sending coffee beans to Europe was a lengthy process, often traveling through the southern tip of Africa. Despite the aging of the coffee during the journey, European coffee enthusiasts still savored it. This marked the emergence of two groups of coffee enthusiasts – those who appreciated aged coffee and those who preferred it fresh. This trend continued even as coffee production expanded to Indonesia and India.

Flavor Profile and Characteristics

Age Coffee is distinguished by its complex and evolved flavor profile, which differs significantly from fresh coffee. While the exact taste depends on the origin, processing method, and aging conditions, aged coffee typically exhibits:

• Reduced Acidity: The bright and citrusy notes of fresh coffee diminish over time, making way for a smoother and mellower acidity.
• Enhanced Body: Aged coffee often has a heavier, more syrupy mouthfeel, contributing to a rich and velvety texture.
• Earthy and Woody Notes: As the coffee matures, it develops deep earthy undertones, along with hints of wood, tobacco, and even spice.
• Caramelized Sweetness: The natural sugars within the beans evolve, creating a well-rounded sweetness with notes of caramel, molasses, or even dried fruit.

The Rarity and Prestige of Age Coffee

Due to the time-intensive nature of aging coffee, it remains a niche product in the coffee industry. Unlike freshly harvested coffee, which is widely available, aged coffee requires years of careful storage and monitoring, making it more expensive and less commonly found. Specialty coffee roasters and premium coffeehouses are more likely to offer aged coffee, often marketing it as a luxurious and unique option for discerning coffee drinkers.

Collectors and aficionados of fine coffee often seek out rare aged varieties, much like wine enthusiasts seek vintage bottles. The appreciation for aged coffee extends beyond taste, encompassing the history, craftsmanship, and patience required to produce such a refined brew.