Guest blog: So many people, so many tastes

Have you ever gone grocery shopping with friends, family members, or children? Yes? Then you'll surely have noticed that everyone is naturally drawn to different products and flavours. Then try to decide together what to eat that evening… a real challenge.

People each have their own taste. And while that can sometimes be difficult, it's mostly fun! You'll have plenty to talk about: food, architecture, fashion, art… and of course, COFFEE.

Nothing is as personal as the way people brew and drink coffee. During my book presentations for "No Nonsense Espresso" in bookstores and kitchenware shops, that's always my first question to people: how do you drink your coffee? And then: how is it brewed? Each time, a personal story follows about whether or not they have time for an elaborate coffee ritual, sticking to habits (my Melitta filter is indestructible), practical possibilities (counter space), and taste preferences. Incredibly interesting.

Taste is currently more in the spotlight than ever. People appreciate pure flavours and honest products again. A trend you can also incorporate at home. For example, by organizing a coffee tasting for family or friends. It's a perfect icebreaker to get to know each other better. When you do this with family, it can be a welcome variation to a standard 'visit.' You can be inspired by different types of coffee beans, coffee beans from different continents, or different coffee brewing methods.

Did you know that coffee represents at least as many flavours as wine? To be more precise: tastes and aromas. Fresh coffee has a pleasant scent that even appeals to people who don't drink coffee. And just like with wine, you can map out scents and flavours to find your own favorite. A hint of vanilla? Or rather a citrus note? Challenge the ardent wine connoisseurs in your circle of friends to a coffee tasting as an alternative to a wine tasting.

How important is taste to you? And how do you shape it? Have you ever attended a coffee tasting? What did you enjoy about it? Let me know! #desmaakisraak @saskiaterwelle.
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Saskia ter Welle is a barista and author of the book 'No Nonsense Espresso' (www.nononsenseespresso.nl)