Tuesday, November 29, 2005
The perfect coffee gift for Christmas
Looking for the unique gift that will make them feel special? Share your passion for exotic gourmet coffee with our coffee gift box. Each coffee gift box includes one pound of each of the finest Volcanica Coffees.
- Volcanica Blue Mountain Coffee
- Volcanica Reserve - Costa Rican Coffee
- Volcanica Original - Costa Rica Coffee
- Volcanica Gran Reserve - Kona Peaberry Coffee
Sunday, November 27, 2005
Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee Beans that are 100% pure
Volcanica Coffee only carries Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee Beans that are 100% pure. Imported directly from the Jamaican Blue Mountains, these coffee beans are the most famous gourmet coffees in the world.
Pure Kona Coffee
Pure Kona Coffee from the big island. This is the pure Kona Coffee famous through out the U.S. as one of the finest gourmet coffees. Please visit our website for more details
Pure Kona Coffee
Pure Kona Coffee from the big island. This is the pure Kona Coffee famous through out the U.S. as one of the finest gourmet coffees. Please visit our website for more details
100% Kona Coffee
100% Kona Coffee from the big island. This is the pure 100% Kona Coffee famous through out the world as one of the finest gourmet coffees.
Costa Rican Estate Coffee
Costa Rican Estate Coffee - One of the finest estate gourmet coffees from the highly regarded Costa Rican Tarrazu region. High in the mountains south of San Jose.
Buy Costa Rica Coffee
Buy Costa Rica Coffee - One of the finest coffees in the world with a smooth and rich taste.
Gift wrap your gourmet coffee gift
Gourmet Coffee Gift Wrap - Give a remarkable gourmet coffee gift from Volcanica Coffee. To make it even easier for you we offer gift wrapping for $3.95 per item.
Caffeine Content of food and drinks
Caffeine Content - Drug makers have to label the amount of caffeine content in their offerings, but food and beverage companies don't. This list of familiar products shows how fast your dose can add up.
Remove a Coffee Stain - Coffee Stain Removal Tips
Remove a Coffee Stain - Coffee Stain Removal Tips - How to remove a coffee stain is not as difficult as it may seem. The problem with coffee stain removals is that most people will wait until the item goes through the laundry several days later. See the web page for complete details.
Types of Gourmet Coffee Bean
Types of Gourmet Coffee Bean - For the coffee drinker there are two major types of coffee beans. The Caffea arabicais the Arabica bean which is the quality coffee of the world. Arabica coffee is the only coffee that is to be drunk and enjoyed without being blended with other types of beans.
Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee
Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee - This extraordinary coffee is grown in the majestic Blue Mountain range in Jamaica reaching approximately 7,402 feet at the highest peak, thus making it is one of the highest grown coffees in the world. Read more at the link above.
Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee
Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee is one of the most sought after coffees in the world. This "Rolls-Royce of coffee" has been satisfying coffee connoisseurs around the globe for more than two centuries and is famous for its exquisite flavor. Read more at the link above.
Tarrazu Coffee
Tarrazu Coffee - Located at the more remote lands up the Pirris River basin in the Tarrazú Highlands, this Tarrazú county Estate represents the Costa Rican Tarrazú coffee character, where the coffee is clearly farmed for quality and not quantity, and the altitude is clearly in the cup. Read more at the Tarrazu Coffee web page.
Fair Trade Coffee
At Volcanica Coffee we believe in Fair Trade Coffee which means paying our coffee suppliers a fair wage. This is not your typical company buying the good grade and cheap grade coffee on world markets then blending them together and calling it gourmet coffee. Read more at the Fair Trade Coffee web page.
Costa Rica Gourmet Coffee
Costa Rica Gourmet Coffee is full-bodied coffee with a deep, pungent flavor, excellent acidity, and a hint of smokiness. Beans grown in Costa Rica are the result of a unique combination of climate, elevation and soil. Just right - you can taste the special care that goes into every cup. Read more at the Costa Rica Gourmet Coffee web page.
Roasted Coffee Beans
Roasted Coffee Beans is considered an art, as the roaster needs to determine when the process has brought the beans to their peak of flavor. Read more at the Roasted Coffee Beans web page.
The History of Coffee
Coffee History - Exactly where and when coffee was first discovered and cultivated is not known, but some authorities believe that it was grown initially in Arabia near the Red Sea about 675 AD. Read more at the Coffee History.
What makes the Best Gourmet Coffee?
The Best Gourmet Coffee - Best Coffee is from single-source Arabica beans that originate from the slopes of volcanic mountains. The rich volcanic soil combined with the high altitude and abundant moisture from the clouds produce a remarkable coffee that cannot be matched by any other variety. Read more at the link above.
What is Specialty Gourmet Coffee?
There are two major types of coffee beans species but for coffee connoisseurs only the Arabica beans qualify as Specialty Coffee - Specialty Gourmet Coffee. Arabica beans are the only ones to be drunk on there own, unblended. Read more at the link above.
Brazil Renewing Coffee Plantations
Rio de Janeiro, Nov 25 (Prensa Latina) Brazil, the world´s number one coffee exporter, has announced the renewal of 40 per cent of its bean-planted land, making operators wonder if it means a fall in Brazil´s part of this market or, on the contrary, would strengthen the South American country´s dominant position.
The secretary of Production and Agroenergy in the Minister of Agriculture and Stock breeding, Linneu da Costa Lima said the renovation is essential to keep up with domestic and world market demand.
The measure is necessary given the fall in yields due to aging plantations, he said and added that Brazil must produce at least 60 million 60kg sacks to maintain its dominant position on the market, followed by Vietnam. That Asian nation is already the first producer of Robusta coffee quality beans. Read full article.
The secretary of Production and Agroenergy in the Minister of Agriculture and Stock breeding, Linneu da Costa Lima said the renovation is essential to keep up with domestic and world market demand.
The measure is necessary given the fall in yields due to aging plantations, he said and added that Brazil must produce at least 60 million 60kg sacks to maintain its dominant position on the market, followed by Vietnam. That Asian nation is already the first producer of Robusta coffee quality beans. Read full article.
Friday, November 11, 2005
Fall Savings on Volcanica Gourmet Coffee
This Fall we have lowed our prices on our gourmet coffees and offer free shipping. Try our selection of Costa Rican coffees and try our Volcanica Reserve Costa Rican Coffee with its silky yet robust flavor that will pick you up, now only $14.99. Or relax with our Volcanica Original Costa Rica Coffee with a smooth flavor for only $12.99.
You can also save $5 on our exotic Blue Mountain Coffee or Kona Coffee. These prices are only for a limited time. We also offer free shipping on 3 or more items. Please visit us today at the home for fine gourmet coffee beans.
You can also save $5 on our exotic Blue Mountain Coffee or Kona Coffee. These prices are only for a limited time. We also offer free shipping on 3 or more items. Please visit us today at the home for fine gourmet coffee beans.
Friday, October 28, 2005
What is Shade Grown Coffee?
The Volcanic coffees from Costa Rica and Kona are all shade grown coffee and have been verified that they comply with this designation. We personally inspect our farms to verify they are incompliance.
Shade grown coffee magically creates some of the best tasting gourmet coffees. By definition, shade grown coffees are simply coffee beans grown beneath a natural canopy of trees, not on cleared land. The natural surrounding of trees besides giving shade also provides a habitat for birds that feed on insects eliminating the use of pesticides and enrich and conserve the soil.
Shade grown coffee magically creates some of the best tasting gourmet coffees. By definition, shade grown coffees are simply coffee beans grown beneath a natural canopy of trees, not on cleared land. The natural surrounding of trees besides giving shade also provides a habitat for birds that feed on insects eliminating the use of pesticides and enrich and conserve the soil.
Shade trees such bananas, plantains eucalyptus and indigenous trees provide a canopy of protections of day-long sunlight from the coffee plants. The canopy prevents the sun from bleaching nutrients from the topsoil. The base and roots of the trees also prevent soil erosion. Some farmers mix in other types of farm trees such as bananas and plantains to help supplement their farm income while providing the side benefit for the coffee plants and the environment.
McDonald's enters the gourmet coffee war.
Now McDonald's is getting into the gourmet coffee business.
Introducing a high-end blend at its US stores is a way to broaden the appeal of the brand and increase coffee sales at breakfast, when about 25 percent of sales are made, said John Glass, an analyst for CIBC World Markets in Boston. McDonald's has offered premium java in the Pacific Northwest and Hawaii.
The coffee market in the United States is the fastest-growing segment within fast food," Glass said. ''McDonald's recognizes this and wants to capitalize on it. It's surprising it's taken the company this long." Read full artilce.
Introducing a high-end blend at its US stores is a way to broaden the appeal of the brand and increase coffee sales at breakfast, when about 25 percent of sales are made, said John Glass, an analyst for CIBC World Markets in Boston. McDonald's has offered premium java in the Pacific Northwest and Hawaii.
The coffee market in the United States is the fastest-growing segment within fast food," Glass said. ''McDonald's recognizes this and wants to capitalize on it. It's surprising it's taken the company this long." Read full artilce.
Monday, October 10, 2005
Coffee Aims to Keep Anti-Oxidants In
More evidence on the health benefits of coffee:
We all know coffee is addictive and drinking too much can raise your blood pressure and heart rate.
But the latest research reveals it's the number one place Americans get their anti-oxidants.Brown Coffee beans are rich in anti-oxidants, but it appears the green variety contains much, much more.
Since most of the anti-oxidants are destroyed in the roasting process, Caffe Sonora wanted to be the first to create a healthy cup of joe. So they developed a way to keep anti oxidants in the coffee. Read full article.
Thursday, October 06, 2005
The History Channel to Air Modern Marvels: Coffee
From Ethiopia more than 1,000 years ago to myriad coffeehouses around the world today, the world of coffee has come a long way. "Modern Marvels: Coffee," a new documentary from the History Channel, takes a closer look at the beverage.
The program will look at the reasons coffee is so widely consumed, the effects it has on the human body and mind, and the various ways in which coffee is brewed and served in different countries.
The documentary features interviews with Ted Lingle of the Specialty Coffee Association of America, Howard Schultz of Starbucks, Bruce Milletto of Bellissimo Coffee InfoGroup, Marty Sharkey of NESCAFE, Joe Alban of Kona Joe Coffee and others.
Tune In:
Saturday, October 8 @ 1pm ET/PT
Sounds very descriptive covering the many facets of the world of gourmet coffees.
The program will look at the reasons coffee is so widely consumed, the effects it has on the human body and mind, and the various ways in which coffee is brewed and served in different countries.
The documentary features interviews with Ted Lingle of the Specialty Coffee Association of America, Howard Schultz of Starbucks, Bruce Milletto of Bellissimo Coffee InfoGroup, Marty Sharkey of NESCAFE, Joe Alban of Kona Joe Coffee and others.
Tune In:
Saturday, October 8 @ 1pm ET/PT
Sounds very descriptive covering the many facets of the world of gourmet coffees.
Sunday, October 02, 2005
Coffee - geography is a flavor
Between the tropics of Cancer and Capricorn, a "coffee belt" encircles the globe. Here, abundant sunshine, moderate rainfall and year-round warm temperatures nurture coffee trees. At harvest time, those trees are laden with bright red coffee cherries. Encased in a thin layer of fruit is a coffee bean - the seed of the coffee cherry.
Coffee is harvested primarily in three areas: Latin America, the Pacific region and Africa. The soil, climate, altitude and surrounding plants that a coffee tree is exposed to, as well as the method by which the bean is extracted from the fruit, all affect the flavor of the coffee.
The tasters expect certain characteristics from each coffee, depending on their respective growing regions. Coffees from Latin America are generally light- to medium-bodied, with clean, lively flavors. Pacific coffees - such as those from Indonesia - are on the opposite end of the taste spectrum. They are typically full- bodied, smooth and earthy, with very low acidity and occasionally herbal flavor notes. Finally, coffees of East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula often combine the crisp, clean acidity found in Latin American coffees with intense floral aroma and enticing fruit or wine flavors.
The next time you pick up a bag of coffee, take a look at where it was grown. When you drink it, see if you too can recognize the taste of the place. Read full article.
Coffee is harvested primarily in three areas: Latin America, the Pacific region and Africa. The soil, climate, altitude and surrounding plants that a coffee tree is exposed to, as well as the method by which the bean is extracted from the fruit, all affect the flavor of the coffee.
The tasters expect certain characteristics from each coffee, depending on their respective growing regions. Coffees from Latin America are generally light- to medium-bodied, with clean, lively flavors. Pacific coffees - such as those from Indonesia - are on the opposite end of the taste spectrum. They are typically full- bodied, smooth and earthy, with very low acidity and occasionally herbal flavor notes. Finally, coffees of East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula often combine the crisp, clean acidity found in Latin American coffees with intense floral aroma and enticing fruit or wine flavors.
The next time you pick up a bag of coffee, take a look at where it was grown. When you drink it, see if you too can recognize the taste of the place. Read full article.
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
Caffeine Drink for Kids Draws Ire of Health Experts
An energy drink called "Kickstart Spark" -- which is being marketed to children -- is sparking its own controversy.
The drink, in the words of the manufacturer, provides "focused and long-lasting energy that's just right for children." Read full article.
The drink, in the words of the manufacturer, provides "focused and long-lasting energy that's just right for children." Read full article.
Saturday, September 24, 2005
50 Top SECRETS OF THE FITTEST!
Here is a coffee listed as one of the tips in this article.
8. Drink a minimum amount of caffeine - only in the form of coffee or tea. Read full article.
8. Drink a minimum amount of caffeine - only in the form of coffee or tea. Read full article.
Sunday, September 18, 2005
One of the Finest Burr Grinders Now at Volcanica Coffee
Volcanica Coffee has now added the top of the line Cusinart burr coffee grinder. This burr grinder has a bean hopper at the top to hold 1/2 pound of your gourmet coffee beans and with one push of the button you are grinding to the exact setting and amount you set. The grinder shuts off automatically and you can easily pour your grounds right into your coffee filter or press. This is one of the finest burr coffee grinders on the market and affordable at only $49.99
New Burr Grinder at Volcanica Coffee
Volcanica Coffee has now added a top of the line burr coffee grinder. The Cuisinart burr grinder has a hopper at the top to store your beans and with one push of the button you are grinding to the exact setting and amount you set. The grinder shuts off automatically. This is one of the finest burr coffee grinders on the market and affordable at only $49.99
Sunday, September 11, 2005
The Famous Taster's Choice TV Commercials
When the two neighbors on the Taster's Choice commercials get together, sparks fly and coffee sales rise faster than the sexual tension. Gold Blend is the British version of Taster's choice. In England, a country where tea drinking is a national pastime, Gold Blen's sales jumped 20 percent within 18 months of the ad's introduction.
Monday, September 05, 2005
Hurrican Katrina Disaster Releif
"Whoever is kind to the needy honors God" (Prov. 14:31, NIV)
Please visit the North American Mission Board website to donate. They are the third largest releiv organization in the U.S.
Please visit the North American Mission Board website to donate. They are the third largest releiv organization in the U.S.
Friday, September 02, 2005
Groups Roasting Starbucks for Promoting Homosexuality
Starbucks is now being criticized for promoting homosexuality with quotes on their cups that promote the homosexual agenda.
Starbucks jolts millions of Americans awake every day with heavy doses of caffeine-rich coffee.But it's the cup's exterior that recently gave some conservative Christians the jitters.
It all started with a quotation on Starbucks coffee cups this summer in which gay author Armistead Maupin laments remaining in the closet as long as he did.
Starbucks spokeswoman Sanja Gould said from Seattle that the quotation is part of a yearlong "The Way I See It Campaign" that features quotations on paper coffee cups from notable figures on a range of topics meant to be "thought-provoking."
But some have been provoked morally, as well, leading to claims that the Maupin quotation and Starbucks' corporate policies reveal support for homosexual causes. Read full article.
Starbucks jolts millions of Americans awake every day with heavy doses of caffeine-rich coffee.But it's the cup's exterior that recently gave some conservative Christians the jitters.
It all started with a quotation on Starbucks coffee cups this summer in which gay author Armistead Maupin laments remaining in the closet as long as he did.
Starbucks spokeswoman Sanja Gould said from Seattle that the quotation is part of a yearlong "The Way I See It Campaign" that features quotations on paper coffee cups from notable figures on a range of topics meant to be "thought-provoking."
But some have been provoked morally, as well, leading to claims that the Maupin quotation and Starbucks' corporate policies reveal support for homosexual causes. Read full article.
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
Perk Up: Coffee May Have Healthy Side Effects
Good news for coffee lovers. Here is another medical report that says coffee is more than just a drink to wake you up. The antioxidants help protect your body.
A new study says the hot beverage is actually good for you.A chemistry professor at the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania said coffee not only clears the mind and perks up the energy, it also provides more healthful antioxidants than any other food or beverage in the American diet. Read full article.
A new study says the hot beverage is actually good for you.A chemistry professor at the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania said coffee not only clears the mind and perks up the energy, it also provides more healthful antioxidants than any other food or beverage in the American diet. Read full article.
Sunday, August 28, 2005
Don't be a mug about coffee myths
THE British coffee industry launched a campaign Thursday to counter confusion about the benefits of the popular drink.
The British Coffee Association (BCA), which represents coffee manufacturers in the UK, said it wanted to raise awareness of the health benefits of coffee.
It said the majority of people were not aware of the beneficial effects of moderate coffee consumption. These included improved concentration and a high content of antioxidants, which can help reduce the risk of some diseases like cancer.
The survey found some myths surrounded the public's image of coffee. The BCA said this meant that around 35 million Britons were potentially unaware of the health benefits it may provide.
Dietician Dr Sarah Schenker said: "Drinking a moderate amount of coffee, around four to five cups a day, is certainly not bad for you and could, as part of a healthy balanced diet, have health benefits.
"This is because coffee contains antioxidants which prevent damage caused by free radicals and so may help to reduce the risk of some diseases."
Read full article
The British Coffee Association (BCA), which represents coffee manufacturers in the UK, said it wanted to raise awareness of the health benefits of coffee.
It said the majority of people were not aware of the beneficial effects of moderate coffee consumption. These included improved concentration and a high content of antioxidants, which can help reduce the risk of some diseases like cancer.
The survey found some myths surrounded the public's image of coffee. The BCA said this meant that around 35 million Britons were potentially unaware of the health benefits it may provide.
Dietician Dr Sarah Schenker said: "Drinking a moderate amount of coffee, around four to five cups a day, is certainly not bad for you and could, as part of a healthy balanced diet, have health benefits.
"This is because coffee contains antioxidants which prevent damage caused by free radicals and so may help to reduce the risk of some diseases."
Read full article
Monday, August 22, 2005
Hawaii Kona Coffee
Hawaii is the only state in America where coffee is grown. The first trees arrived in 1825 after the Governor of Oahu, Chief Boki, acquired them in Rio De Janeiro.
Today ther are over 6,500 combined acres on Hawaii's five major islands, with an annual production of 6 to7 million pounds of green coffee beans. Kauai has the largest coffee operations with over 4,000 acres. The coffee most famous for its flavor is Kona coffee from the big Island. The special flavor of Hawaiian Kona Coffee
The bulks of the coffee harvest takes place Septemer through December. Each year in November, during the middle of the harvest, the annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival is held on the Island of Hawaii. More than a tourist attraction, the festival is a celebration of a way of life with parades, cooking demonstrations, coffee farm tours and the prestigious coffee cupping competitions where the Island's best coffee is selected.
Today ther are over 6,500 combined acres on Hawaii's five major islands, with an annual production of 6 to7 million pounds of green coffee beans. Kauai has the largest coffee operations with over 4,000 acres. The coffee most famous for its flavor is Kona coffee from the big Island. The special flavor of Hawaiian Kona Coffee
The bulks of the coffee harvest takes place Septemer through December. Each year in November, during the middle of the harvest, the annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival is held on the Island of Hawaii. More than a tourist attraction, the festival is a celebration of a way of life with parades, cooking demonstrations, coffee farm tours and the prestigious coffee cupping competitions where the Island's best coffee is selected.
Monday, August 15, 2005
Coffee was Only for the Elite in 18th Century Russia
In the 18th century the King of Prussia, Fredrick the Great, loved coffee so much he tried to keep it out of the hands of the commoners. Only the elite of society were allowed roasting licenses. Doctors were instructed to tell people coffee caused sterility. He even went so far as to have the streets policed to smell out any signs of unauthorized roasters.
Wednesday, August 10, 2005
Specialty Coffee
Did you know that most coffee is grown in latitudes between 25 degrees north and 25 degrees south of the equator? Specialty coffee is grown best in altitudes of 3,300 to 7,000 feet above sea level. The finest gourmet coffees are found at this altitudes but with rich volcanica soil.
Another bit of trivia is that the coffee plant is native only to Ethiopia and Yemen.
Another bit of trivia is that the coffee plant is native only to Ethiopia and Yemen.
Saturday, July 30, 2005
Do you Clean Your Dirty Coffee Pot?
You need to clean you coffee pot every few days to remove the oil that builds up from the coffee. It's fine to rinse your pot with just plain water but if you brew gourmet coffee every morning you need to think about giving it a good scrubing every few days. All you need to do is wash it with soap and hot water. And don't forget about your coffee filter basket. Both items can be safely placed in your dishwasher.
To clean the insides of you drip coffee maker refer to your instructions. Usually they recommend that you run a cycle of vinegar one time to remove the water deposits that build up. You can also buy a special coffee pot cleaner at your local Wal-Mart store. Make sure you run another cycle through with regular water to clean out the vinegar befor you brew your next batch of coffee beans
To clean the insides of you drip coffee maker refer to your instructions. Usually they recommend that you run a cycle of vinegar one time to remove the water deposits that build up. You can also buy a special coffee pot cleaner at your local Wal-Mart store. Make sure you run another cycle through with regular water to clean out the vinegar befor you brew your next batch of coffee beans
Monday, July 11, 2005
Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee
This weekend I happened to stop by a Gloria Jean's Coffee shop in the local mall to see what Roasted Coffee Beans they had in stock. They had a bin of Blue Mountain Coffee at the sky high price of $54.99. Upon closer inspection they did not look fresh and had a dried out look to them.
I am proud to say that you can find freshly roasted Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee from Volcanica Coffee for the reasonable price of only $39.99. We ship it to you direct to your home and if you live outside of the state of Florida, without local sale tax charges. This is the Rolls-Royce of coffees if you want to saviour one of the Best Coffees in the world.
Wednesday, June 29, 2005
Shade Grown Coffee
Did you know that farming techniques used in farming your coffee impacts the environment? Are they strip farmed or are they farmed in harmony with the environment? Shade Grown Coffee is a designation given to coffee that is farmed with surrounding trees to provide homes for birds, avoid soil erosion and provide shade to the coffee plants.
We recently traveled to Costa Rica to personally inspect our coffee farms and verified that they are officially Shade Grown Coffee. Visit the Gourmet Coffee Beans web site for more information.
We recently traveled to Costa Rica to personally inspect our coffee farms and verified that they are officially Shade Grown Coffee. Visit the Gourmet Coffee Beans web site for more information.
Monday, June 20, 2005
Decaf Gourmet Coffee
We have added Decaf Gourmet Coffee to Volcanica Coffee. This is a Kona Decaf that has been decaffeinated using the Swiss water method which preserves the flavor.
This is a true 100% Kona Coffee with the Kona flavor we have come to expect but without the caffeine. Please visit our decaf coffee page to order online.
This is a true 100% Kona Coffee with the Kona flavor we have come to expect but without the caffeine. Please visit our decaf coffee page to order online.
Tuesday, June 07, 2005
Quick Tips on Gourmet Coffee
• Grind Up - The finer you grind up your gourmet coffee beans the more you free up the antioxidants for your cup. For more information read the article on grinding coffee beans on the Volcanica Coffee website.
• Dark roasts - deliver less caffeine due to the longer roasting process that breads down the drug
• Paper filters - keep out oil that’s been linked to high cholesterol. The gold or metal filters do not.
• Espresso has more caffeine - and antioxidants than brewed coffee. The coffee beans are from the highly caffeinated robusta beans and the pressure used to make it extracts more of the drug compounds.
• Dark roasts - deliver less caffeine due to the longer roasting process that breads down the drug
• Paper filters - keep out oil that’s been linked to high cholesterol. The gold or metal filters do not.
• Espresso has more caffeine - and antioxidants than brewed coffee. The coffee beans are from the highly caffeinated robusta beans and the pressure used to make it extracts more of the drug compounds.
Monday, May 30, 2005
Storing Coffee Beans
To maintain freshness you need to store your gourmet coffee beans in an airtight container. Keep them in a cup board away from sunlight, heat and moisture. For extendened periods you can keep it in the freezer. The freezer will keep coffee fresh for 3 months. Do not store them in the refrigerator, the moisture will deteriorate the coffee freshness and oders from other foods will invade the flavor. For more information on preparing coffee visit our coffee tips page at the Volcanica Coffee website.
Tuesday, May 24, 2005
Introducing Hawaiian Kona Coffee - Volcanica Gold
We have added a new exotic coffee to our line up of Volcanica Coffee. It's called Volcanica Gold and is a Hawaiian Kona Coffee with an exquisit flavor. It is very flavorful and full-bodied, a rich coffee with a mellow straightforward character. A delicious taste that is low in acid with a heady aroma and a complex rich and winy taste.
This is 100% pure Kona Coffee with out blending other types of coffee beans. Hawaiian Kona Coffee - Volcanica Gold joins our other Kona Coffee - Volcanica Gran Reserve to represent the finest in volcanic coffees from Hawaii.
Visit our Volcanica Coffee Gourmet Coffee Beans web site ato view all of our selections of fine gourmet coffees and to buy Kona Coffee.
This is 100% pure Kona Coffee with out blending other types of coffee beans. Hawaiian Kona Coffee - Volcanica Gold joins our other Kona Coffee - Volcanica Gran Reserve to represent the finest in volcanic coffees from Hawaii.
Visit our Volcanica Coffee Gourmet Coffee Beans web site ato view all of our selections of fine gourmet coffees and to buy Kona Coffee.
Thursday, May 12, 2005
What are Coffee Blends Made of?
The majority of coffees you find at supermarkets or at specialty coffee houses offer coffee "blends." Blends are different from single origin coffees in that they have coffee beans that are from various countries and regions than a coffee that is 100% from a single area of origin. They usually are branded by that particular company name such as "Starbucks Blend" or "Folgers Blend."
These are sometimes fine coffees but usually they are coffees that have been blended no so much for a better or unusual flavor but to make the coffee more profitable. Blends will consist of fine gourmet Arabica coffee beans mixed with lower quality and cheaper Arabica beans or the harsher tasting and abuntant Robusta beans. This sometimes provides a decent tasting cup of coffee at a much lower cost to produce for the manufacturer or coffee house.
The hybrid to both of these are the single origin blends. You will find these under names such as Kona Blend or Blue Mountain Blend. What this means is that only about 5% or less of the actual regional coffee is mixed in with beans from other regions.
Single origin gourmet coffee have a much richer taste and a unique character to the origin. single origin coffees have also become the most famous tasting coffees. If you want to taste pure single origin gourmet coffees look for a reputable source that guarantees that their coffee to be 100% pure and one that is not mixed with any other variety. Look for fine single origin coffees such as Kona Coffee, Costa Rica Coffee, Blue Mountain Coffee, or Hawaiian Kona Coffee. All of these 100% pure single origin coffees are available from Volcanica Coffee.
These are sometimes fine coffees but usually they are coffees that have been blended no so much for a better or unusual flavor but to make the coffee more profitable. Blends will consist of fine gourmet Arabica coffee beans mixed with lower quality and cheaper Arabica beans or the harsher tasting and abuntant Robusta beans. This sometimes provides a decent tasting cup of coffee at a much lower cost to produce for the manufacturer or coffee house.
The hybrid to both of these are the single origin blends. You will find these under names such as Kona Blend or Blue Mountain Blend. What this means is that only about 5% or less of the actual regional coffee is mixed in with beans from other regions.
Single origin gourmet coffee have a much richer taste and a unique character to the origin. single origin coffees have also become the most famous tasting coffees. If you want to taste pure single origin gourmet coffees look for a reputable source that guarantees that their coffee to be 100% pure and one that is not mixed with any other variety. Look for fine single origin coffees such as Kona Coffee, Costa Rica Coffee, Blue Mountain Coffee, or Hawaiian Kona Coffee. All of these 100% pure single origin coffees are available from Volcanica Coffee.
Thursday, May 05, 2005
Coffee Pods Review - Not Such a Great Idea
Coffee pods have become very popular over the past year. They are a good idea for a single person looking to only make one cup of coffee but there are drawbacks one needs to consider.
Pods use pressurized water and packets of coffee that are inserted into the machine. The coffee is already sealed into the packet and are specially made for each brand of machine. With a push of a button the water is heated and pushed through the pod into a coffee cup.
Our experience with the pod machines found several issues that should be considered as this may not be the best option for you.
For the best results, stick with a conventional coffee maker, purchase quality coffee beans (such as Volcanica Kona Coffee or Costa Rica Coffee) and grinding your coffee beans just before your brew your coffee.
Pods use pressurized water and packets of coffee that are inserted into the machine. The coffee is already sealed into the packet and are specially made for each brand of machine. With a push of a button the water is heated and pushed through the pod into a coffee cup.
Our experience with the pod machines found several issues that should be considered as this may not be the best option for you.
- Pod machines do not brew coffee at the same hot temperature found with conventional coffee pots. Some of the coffee is only medium temperature.
- They are expensive costing more than conventional coffee makers; $50-$70 compared to $15-$30 for conventional makers.
- They can be a pain to use and not as convenient as one may think.
- The coffee in the pod is not fresh, they are prepackaged.
- The individual coffee pods are expensive.
- You are obligated to use the coffee that is produced by the manufacturer and you cannot use your own gourmet coffee beans.
- The coffee pods produce a coffee taste that is mediocre at best.
For the best results, stick with a conventional coffee maker, purchase quality coffee beans (such as Volcanica Kona Coffee or Costa Rica Coffee) and grinding your coffee beans just before your brew your coffee.
Thursday, April 28, 2005
Sharper Focus with Coffee
Studies have shown that coffee causes you to be more focused and a sharper thinker. Harris Lieberman PhD, a leading caffeine researcher with the U.S. Army reports that caffeine improves scores on a range of cognitive tasks, such as decision making, memory, learning and attention. Not only does coffee make you a better thinker it can also boost your mood by making you feel more energetic.
For more information on the health benefits of coffee, see our Healthy Coffee article at the Gourmet Coffee Beans website from Volcanica Coffee.
For more information on the health benefits of coffee, see our Healthy Coffee article at the Gourmet Coffee Beans website from Volcanica Coffee.
Monday, April 18, 2005
Kona Peaberry Coffee - Truely Exotic
One of the most intriging coffees is the Kona Peaberry Coffee. The flavor is so concentrated in this little rounded bean that it will knock your socks off. The Kona coffee flavor is revealed to a whole new level with this little bean known as the champagne of Kona coffee. The Kona coffee flavor can be described as smooth, intense aroma, nutty and luscious. This bean has all the deep and reach volcanic flavor from the slopes of Mauna Loa volcano in Hawaii.
The peaberry beans only makes up 5% of the entire Kona coffee crop making it rare and expensive. Though not as expensive as Blue Mountain Coffee, many favor Kona Peaberry Coffee ove this other exclusive gourmet coffee.
The peaberry beans only makes up 5% of the entire Kona coffee crop making it rare and expensive. Though not as expensive as Blue Mountain Coffee, many favor Kona Peaberry Coffee ove this other exclusive gourmet coffee.
Monday, April 11, 2005
Costa Rica Coffee
Costa Rica Coffee from the Tarrazu region is regarded as one of the finest coffees in the world. Grown at high altitudes on volcanic soil, the cherries ripen more slowly giving it a rich and hearty flavor.
The higher altitudes the Costa Rican Coffee beans are grown at produce better beans, not only because they have the effect of increasing the acidity of the bean and thereby improving the flavor, but also because the cold nights that occur at the higher altitudes mean that the trees develop more slowly, which also the beans to develop a rich and fuller flavor. The regular rainfall that is caused by precipitation at the higher altitudes is also essential for the proper growth of the trees. These advantages are offset by the higher access and transportation costs which drive up the price of this fine gourmet coffee.
The higher altitudes the Costa Rican Coffee beans are grown at produce better beans, not only because they have the effect of increasing the acidity of the bean and thereby improving the flavor, but also because the cold nights that occur at the higher altitudes mean that the trees develop more slowly, which also the beans to develop a rich and fuller flavor. The regular rainfall that is caused by precipitation at the higher altitudes is also essential for the proper growth of the trees. These advantages are offset by the higher access and transportation costs which drive up the price of this fine gourmet coffee.
Monday, April 04, 2005
Gourmet Coffee Beans
Here are links where you can directly purchase fine gourmet coffee.
Coffee Beans
Gourmet coffee beans unlike any other. Volcanica gourmet coffee beans are grown in rich volcanic soil at high mountain elevations.
Costa Rica Coffee - Volcanica Original - Smooth, silky and rich flavor like no other. With a light, clean flavor and wonderful fragrance, Volcanica Costa Rica Original gourmet coffee beans are a world-class coffee with a full-body and excellent acidity.
Costa Rican Coffee Tarrazu - Volcanica Reserve - Bold and rich flavor to pick you up. From the Tarrazu region in Costa Rica, one of the most highly regarded coffee-growing areas. One of the world's greatest gourmet coffee beans with its light, clean flavor and wonderful fragrance.
Volcanica Jamaica Blue Mountain - Very full flavor with prominent fruit flavors. The Rolls-Royce of coffee regarded by many as the best coffee in the world. A full flavor: it has balance, fruit, and acidity and provides all the satisfaction one could want with a strong and intense aroma.
Kona Coffee - Volcanica Gran Reserve - The champagne of Kona coffee. This is the most exclusive of all the Kona gourmet coffee beans with only 5% of the crop producing the Peaberry variety, highly prized for its smooth, full flavor and low acid content.
Hawaii Coffee - Kona Gold Coffee - Kona Gold gourmet coffee beans are deliciously rich, medium-bodied and slightly acidic coffee with a heady aroma and complex, winey, spicy taste. It has a full, smooth flavor and is also great for every day drinking.
Fair Trade Coffee - At Volcanica Coffee we believe in Fair Trade Coffee which means paying our coffee suppliers a fair wage. This is not your typical%2
Coffee Beans
Gourmet coffee beans unlike any other. Volcanica gourmet coffee beans are grown in rich volcanic soil at high mountain elevations.
Costa Rica Coffee - Volcanica Original - Smooth, silky and rich flavor like no other. With a light, clean flavor and wonderful fragrance, Volcanica Costa Rica Original gourmet coffee beans are a world-class coffee with a full-body and excellent acidity.
Costa Rican Coffee Tarrazu - Volcanica Reserve - Bold and rich flavor to pick you up. From the Tarrazu region in Costa Rica, one of the most highly regarded coffee-growing areas. One of the world's greatest gourmet coffee beans with its light, clean flavor and wonderful fragrance.
Volcanica Jamaica Blue Mountain - Very full flavor with prominent fruit flavors. The Rolls-Royce of coffee regarded by many as the best coffee in the world. A full flavor: it has balance, fruit, and acidity and provides all the satisfaction one could want with a strong and intense aroma.
Kona Coffee - Volcanica Gran Reserve - The champagne of Kona coffee. This is the most exclusive of all the Kona gourmet coffee beans with only 5% of the crop producing the Peaberry variety, highly prized for its smooth, full flavor and low acid content.
Hawaii Coffee - Kona Gold Coffee - Kona Gold gourmet coffee beans are deliciously rich, medium-bodied and slightly acidic coffee with a heady aroma and complex, winey, spicy taste. It has a full, smooth flavor and is also great for every day drinking.
Fair Trade Coffee - At Volcanica Coffee we believe in Fair Trade Coffee which means paying our coffee suppliers a fair wage. This is not your typical%2
Thursday, March 24, 2005
Supplemental Coffee Information
Information and articles related to the origins of Volcanica gourmet coffee beans and the coffee industry.
Hawaiian Kona Coffee - What Makes It So Unique. Naturally High Quality and Extra Care Results in a Gourmet Coffee - Most Kona coffee is graded Prime or better because of the climate, thecareful hand-cultivation, and the wet-method processing used throughout the region.
Specialty Coffee - Specialty Gourmet Coffee - There are two major types of coffee beans species but for coffee connoisseurs only the Arabica beans qualify as Specialty coffee. Arabica beans are the only ones to be drunk on there own, unblended.
Tarrazu Coffee Farms - Geography and climate are factors that confer the ability to harvest a fine coffee. The combination of soil, temperature, sunlight, wet and dry seasons must all meet the right formula. The small, high mountainous Costa Rican Tarrazu region, south of San José, has the ideal conditions.
Costa Rica Gourmet Coffee - Costa Rica coffee is full-bodied coffee with a deep, pungent flavor, excellent acidity, and a hint of smokiness. Beans grown inCosta Rica are the result of a unique combination of climate, elevation and
soil. Just right - you can taste the special care that goes into every cup.
Costa Rica Information - The country is divided by a backbone of volcanoes and mountains, an extension of the Andes-Sierra Madre chain which runs along the western side of the Americas.
Gourmet Coffee Farms - The art and science of growing, harvesting and roasting highland coffee and increasing the coffee drinker's awareness of where the beans originated.
History of Costa Rican Coffee - Coffee came to Costa Rica in the last decade of the eighteenth century. Its arrival on national scene was discrete, but definitive.
Tarrazu Coffee - Located at the more remote lands up the Pirris River basin in the Tarrazú Highlands,
this Tarrazú county Estate represents the Costa Rican Tarrazú coffee character, where the coffee is clearly farmed for quality and not quantity, and the altitude is clearly in the cup
Tarrazu Gourmet Coffee - T. Umaña J. is a small farm at the base of Cerro Tarrazu or Trinidad, half a mile north of San Marcos de Tarrazu. Located in the municipality of Tarrazu, in the southern San José province of Costa Rica at an altitude between 1400 and 1800 meters.
Hawaiian Kona Coffee - What Makes It So Unique. Naturally High Quality and Extra Care Results in a Gourmet Coffee - Most Kona coffee is graded Prime or better because of the climate, thecareful hand-cultivation, and the wet-method processing used throughout the region.
How to Make Coffee - Tips on how to make coffee so that you will get the most out of your Volcanica gourmet coffee beans.
Healthy Coffee - More and more studies have linked coffee consumption to a number of health benefits, including a reduced risk of diabetes, Parkinson's disease, gallstones,colon cancer and potentially heart disease.
History of Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee - In 1728, Sir Nicholas Lawes, the then Governor of Jamaica, imported coffee into Jamaica from Martinique. The country was ideal for this cultivation and nine years after its introduction 83,000 lbs. of coffee was exported.
History of Kona Coffee - The first settlers in Hawaii arrived in approximately 300-400 AD, probably from the Marquesas Islands.
Types of Gourmet Coffee Beans - For the coffee drinker there are two major types of coffee beans. The Caffea arabicais the Arabica bean which is the quality coffee of the world. Arabica coffee is the only coffee that is to be drunk and enjoyed without being blended with other types of beans.
How to Brew Coffee - The basic principal that is common to all types of brewing methods is to soak ground coffee in hot water to extract the flavor and aroma. Since the drip coffee method is the most popular method, this article will focus on brewing the best cup from your drip coffee maker.Sunday, March 13, 2005
Types of Gourmet Coffee Beans
Arabica Beans
For the coffee drinker there are two major types of coffee beans. The Caffea arabicais the Arabica bean which is the quality coffee of the world. Arabica coffee is the only coffee that is to be drunk and enjoyed without being blended with other types of beans.
For the coffee drinker there are two major types of coffee beans. The Caffea arabicais the Arabica bean which is the quality coffee of the world. Arabica coffee is the only coffee that is to be drunk and enjoyed without being blended with other types of beans.
Arabica coffee is native to northeastern Africa but is now grown throughout the world. The Arabica plant can grow to forty feet in the wild but is pruned in cultivation to eight feet to allow for harvesting of the beans. The plant does not bear fruit until the trees are 3 to 5 years of age but can produce coffee cherries for up to thirty years. Being a tropical plant, it prefers temperature ranges from the fifties to mid-seventies Fahrenheit. They thrive in areas with large amounts of rainfall and in altitudes between 3,000 to 6,500 feet. It is particularly prolific in the tropics of Central and South America.
To read the rest of this article please visit the Gourmet Coffee Beans article at the Volcanica Coffee web site.
Saturday, March 12, 2005
New Gourmet Coffee Beans Web Site
We have a new web site under construction. Please visit Gourmet Coffee Beans in the future.
Monday, March 07, 2005
Grinding Gourmet Coffee Beans
The type of coffee grind that you use is important in order to properly match the type of brewing method you will be using. The objective is to get the most flavor out of the ground beans when infused with hot water. The fast rule of thumb is the faster the infusion the finer the grind.
The various grind categories are “fine,” “medium” and “coarse.” The finer grinds don’t need to be in contact with the water for as long as the coarser grinds. The coarsest grind is used in the classic pot method, The plunger and drip coffee filter methods require coarser grinds. The espresso brewing method needs the least amount of time and requires the grind to be very fine.
To read the entire article please visit this link Grinding Coffee Beans.
Monday, February 28, 2005
Are you a coffee drinker or a coffee lover?
Coffee drinkers are satisfied with any cup of coffee as long as it is hot, dark and lots of it. Coffee lovers find out what type of coffee they are about to drink. Coffee drinker could care less about the type of roast or grind. Coffee lovers want to know the country where the coffee originated.
There still may be hope for coffee drinkers out there. Most coffee drinkers really do not know that there is great coffee available. We have been forced to accept average and below average coffee from our restaurants, convenience stores, airplanes and hotels.
Making a great cup for the coffee lover is a routine. Yes it take a bit more effort for the lover but not that much. A lover will try out various gourmet coffee beans, grind them just before brewing, and take care in the method and quality of water that is used to brew. Just a little more and yes a little more expense, but it will yield an outstanding cup that one can enjoy and take pleasure in drinking.
There still may be hope for coffee drinkers out there. Most coffee drinkers really do not know that there is great coffee available. We have been forced to accept average and below average coffee from our restaurants, convenience stores, airplanes and hotels.
Making a great cup for the coffee lover is a routine. Yes it take a bit more effort for the lover but not that much. A lover will try out various gourmet coffee beans, grind them just before brewing, and take care in the method and quality of water that is used to brew. Just a little more and yes a little more expense, but it will yield an outstanding cup that one can enjoy and take pleasure in drinking.
Wednesday, February 16, 2005
Which roast has the most flavor?
The darker the bean's roast, the richer the coffee's flavor. However, if you have a fine quality gourmet coffee, a medium roast lets you taste the full natural flavors of the coffee beans.
Most commercial coffee in the U.S. is roasted to a very light roast called "American." This roast produces an acceptable cup of coffee. French Roast beans are brownish-black, a bit oily with a hint of smokiness. Italian roast (espresso) beans are black to the point of being carbonized and are extremely smoky an oily.
A darker roast can conceal or hide a lower quality bean and actually make it taste better. Most coffee lovers prefer a darker toast.
Most commercial coffee in the U.S. is roasted to a very light roast called "American." This roast produces an acceptable cup of coffee. French Roast beans are brownish-black, a bit oily with a hint of smokiness. Italian roast (espresso) beans are black to the point of being carbonized and are extremely smoky an oily.
Monday, February 07, 2005
Caffeine and Exercise
Caffeine has been shown to be beneficial to people who exercise. Having caffeine in your system causes increased muscle building by leading to a stronger muscle contraction. Your brain is more focused on the workout which gives you increased productivity. Caffeine mobilizes stored fatty acids which are then used as fuel in place of glycogen. Your body can then endure a more intense workout because it will take longer for your body to run out of fuel.
Volcanica Coffee offers the finest coffee beans to give you the caffeine lift for your workouts.
Volcanica Coffee offers the finest coffee beans to give you the caffeine lift for your workouts.
Tuesday, February 01, 2005
Coffee is Good for Your Health
For the longest time we have all heard that too much coffee isn't good for you. Now recent medical research is beginning to tell us the opposite, that coffee might actually be good for your health. Epidemiologilcal studies by researchers at the Mayo Clinic and Harvard University have linked the consumption of caffeine in coffee to a lower risk of Parkinson's disease. They also found it lowers the risk of gallbladder disease.
For people drinking both regular and decaf, the coffee seemed to offer protection against type 2 diabetes. Scientists speculate that the antioxidantes in coffee as well as magnesium and phytoestrogens are the main ingredients responsible.
Drink up! Try an awesome cup of Costa Rican coffee from Volcanica Coffee.
For people drinking both regular and decaf, the coffee seemed to offer protection against type 2 diabetes. Scientists speculate that the antioxidantes in coffee as well as magnesium and phytoestrogens are the main ingredients responsible.
Drink up! Try an awesome cup of Costa Rican coffee from Volcanica Coffee.
Sunday, January 23, 2005
The Kopi Luwak Coffee
All right now, this is going to get a little gross for most of us. When I first heard of it I thought it was a joke but I researched it and found it to be true. There is a "gourmet coffee" that gets its flavor by passing through the digestive system of a wild animals.
The Kopi Luwak is supposidly most expensive coffee in the world. The beans are passed through an Indonesian wild cat known as a palm civet, a dark brown tree-dwelling cat-like creature found throughout Southeast Asia (people have mistakenly called them monkeys). Coffee pickers then pick them up as they excrete them whole without any dung.
Most of the beans are sold in Japanese buyers. Experts believe the wild cats give the drink a unique earthy taste and say it smells musty.
Yuck!
The Kopi Luwak is supposidly most expensive coffee in the world. The beans are passed through an Indonesian wild cat known as a palm civet, a dark brown tree-dwelling cat-like creature found throughout Southeast Asia (people have mistakenly called them monkeys). Coffee pickers then pick them up as they excrete them whole without any dung.
Most of the beans are sold in Japanese buyers. Experts believe the wild cats give the drink a unique earthy taste and say it smells musty.
Yuck!
Monday, January 17, 2005
Coffee Makers
After you buy great coffee beans you want to make sure you get the most out of them with your coffee maker. Consumer Reports recently evaluated several and here are some of their findings:
- Coffee quality depends more on the beans than the machine
- With "pod" models you are doing more, paying more, and getting less
- If you use a big machine for a single cup, the coffee may suffer
- If you are making smaller servings get a maker that has a small-batch setting
- Be aware that a manufacturer's cup is usually 4 or 5 ounces no the standard 6 ounces that most coffee packages use as a basis for directions
- Use a thermal carafe to keep coffee hot and fresh tasting
- Warming plates after 20 minutes deteriorate the taste causing it to turn bitter
- Built-in grinders can be annoying to use and clean.
- A $20 coffee-maker can make as great a cup of coffee as a $100 to $300 model
- Number one rated machine is the Braun Aromaster KF400 for $20
- Best for one or two cups is the Melitta Take 2 ME2TM for $20
Remember that the brand of the gourmet coffee beans that you use is the most important factor in a good cup of coffee. Check out the selection of specialty coffee at www.VolcanicaCoffee.com.
Monday, January 10, 2005
Coffee Bean Grinder
For Christmas my wife bought me a coffee bean grider for the kitchen and after trying it out for a few weeks I have been very pleased. It is a Cuisinart DBM-8 and is a burr type of grinder. Burr grinders are much better than the less expensive blade griders in that they grind the coffee more evenly and without the manual process required.
The Cuisinart grinder has a hopper with a lid at the top to store your beans. Below it is a grind setting setting allowing you 18 different grinds from coarse to fine. There is a switch to tell the machine how many cups you would like it to grind from 4 to 18. Then you just push the button and it grinds the coffee into a clear plastic container with a lid that you can take off to pour the coffee out. This makes grinding my gourmet coffee beans so much quicker and with less mess.
It has taken a few weeks to get adjusted to how it works and to determine how much coffee it is acutally making for the different setting. I have found that the 6 cup setting is the best for makng a full 12-cup pot of coffee. It is a beautiful kitchen appliance and has a modern stainless steel design. The grinding process, however, is a bit loud. The other complaint is that the grind is not completely even.
Overally I am please with this grider. It can be found for under $50 on the net or at stores such as Bed, Bath and Beyond.
The Cuisinart grinder has a hopper with a lid at the top to store your beans. Below it is a grind setting setting allowing you 18 different grinds from coarse to fine. There is a switch to tell the machine how many cups you would like it to grind from 4 to 18. Then you just push the button and it grinds the coffee into a clear plastic container with a lid that you can take off to pour the coffee out. This makes grinding my gourmet coffee beans so much quicker and with less mess.
It has taken a few weeks to get adjusted to how it works and to determine how much coffee it is acutally making for the different setting. I have found that the 6 cup setting is the best for makng a full 12-cup pot of coffee. It is a beautiful kitchen appliance and has a modern stainless steel design. The grinding process, however, is a bit loud. The other complaint is that the grind is not completely even.
Overally I am please with this grider. It can be found for under $50 on the net or at stores such as Bed, Bath and Beyond.
Friday, January 07, 2005
In Search of Great Coffee
Last month's December issue of Consumer Reports had a review on various coffee brands with some interesting findings. They were surprised to find that of the 42 brands tested the overall the quality compared to their last report was much lower. They found: whole beans usually bested ground (no surprise to most of us!), coffee's with the same brand name may not be equally good, high price doesn't guarantee high quality, Kona coffees can be second-rate, and coffee-shop brands may not shine.
One of the eye openers from their tests is that Starbucks and their sister brand, Seattle's Best placed 3 coffees in the fair category. Starbucks did place one coffee in the good category for their Colombian Narino Supreme Mild. None of their coffees placed in the excellent or very good ratings.
They stated that though coffee prices have been kept low that it really is not good news. Prices are kept low by a glut of lower-quality robusta beans that are blended with higher-quality arabica beans. This tobusta invasion is partly responsible for a reduction in the quality of some coffees. This is very evident in the quality of supermarket coffee.
The only coffee with an excellent rating was a Caribou Columbian. Only two were given a very good rating: Eight O'Clock 100% Columbian and Dunkin' Donuts Original Blend.
Unfortunately, none of the Volcanica Coffee gourmet coffee beans were not tested in this report. Volcanica only uses high quality arabica coffee beans and would have probably tested very high in this report.
Next blog reports will be on coffee maker ratings and the recent health finding on coffee.
One of the eye openers from their tests is that Starbucks and their sister brand, Seattle's Best placed 3 coffees in the fair category. Starbucks did place one coffee in the good category for their Colombian Narino Supreme Mild. None of their coffees placed in the excellent or very good ratings.
They stated that though coffee prices have been kept low that it really is not good news. Prices are kept low by a glut of lower-quality robusta beans that are blended with higher-quality arabica beans. This tobusta invasion is partly responsible for a reduction in the quality of some coffees. This is very evident in the quality of supermarket coffee.
The only coffee with an excellent rating was a Caribou Columbian. Only two were given a very good rating: Eight O'Clock 100% Columbian and Dunkin' Donuts Original Blend.
Unfortunately, none of the Volcanica Coffee gourmet coffee beans were not tested in this report. Volcanica only uses high quality arabica coffee beans and would have probably tested very high in this report.
Next blog reports will be on coffee maker ratings and the recent health finding on coffee.
Friday, December 31, 2004
Blue Mountain Coffee
Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee is one of the most sought after coffees in the world. This "Rolls-Royce of coffee" has been satisfying coffee connoisseurs around the globe for more than two centuries and is famous for its exquisite flavor, good acidity, a clean refined taste, unusual sweetness, excellent body and intense bold aroma.This outstanding coffee is grown in the majestic Blue Mountain range in Jamaica reaching approximately 7,402 feet at the highest peak, thus making it is one of the highest grown coffees in the world. Blue Mountain Coffee is an incredible mix of rich soil, cool and misty conditions, high rainfall and good soil drainage combined with expert farmers and stringent government quality control. The end results is the smoothest, richest and best Java in the world. Volcanica’s Jamaica Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee is imported directly from one of the few authorized growers on the island.
The Blue Mountain Coffee from Jamaica is the most famous specialty coffee and has its own strain of coffee bean described as blue-green beans. Blue Mountain Coffee from Volcanica is certified by the Jamaican Coffee Industry Board.
The Blue Mountain Coffee from Jamaica is the most famous specialty coffee and has its own strain of coffee bean described as blue-green beans. Blue Mountain Coffee from Volcanica is certified by the Jamaican Coffee Industry Board.
Thursday, December 23, 2004
Specialty Coffee Beans
There are two major types of coffee beans. But for coffee connoisseurs only the Arabica beans qualify as Specialty Coffee. Arabica beans are the only variety to be drunk on there own, unblended. Volcanica Gourmet Coffee specializes in only the finest specialty coffee beans of the arabica variety:
The other variety that does not qualify as a specialty coffe is the robusta bean. These are usually used to blend in with the better arabica beans. Many roasters use this to blend into the finer arabica beans to increase the quantity of production of their finer coffee blens. While increasing their supply they higher brand they sell at a higher price. Volcanica Coffee only uses 100% arabica coffee beans from volcanica regions around the world.
The other variety that does not qualify as a specialty coffe is the robusta bean. These are usually used to blend in with the better arabica beans. Many roasters use this to blend into the finer arabica beans to increase the quantity of production of their finer coffee blens. While increasing their supply they higher brand they sell at a higher price. Volcanica Coffee only uses 100% arabica coffee beans from volcanica regions around the world.
Tuesday, December 14, 2004
100% KONA COFFEE - WHAT MAKES IT SO UNIQUE?
Naturally High Quality and Extra Care Results in a Gourmet Coffee - Most Kona coffee is graded Prime or better because of the climate, the careful hand-cultivation, and the wet-method processing used throughout the region.
Like fine vintage wines, our 100% Kona coffee is a distinguished coffee flavor that is farmed meticulously. The end result is a coffee with a delicate yet flavorful and with a rich aroma - a product that is famous among coffee drinking societies throughout the world. This excellent quality has made Kona coffee one of the two most highly valued coffees in the world.
Like fine vintage wines, our 100% Kona coffee is a distinguished coffee flavor that is farmed meticulously. The end result is a coffee with a delicate yet flavorful and with a rich aroma - a product that is famous among coffee drinking societies throughout the world. This excellent quality has made Kona coffee one of the two most highly valued coffees in the world.
Kona Coffee Growing Region
Kona is the very special coffee grown on the dark volcanic lava rock slopes of Kona, with enviable consistent quality. Kona, on the west coast of Hawaii island (also known as The Big Island), has produced coffee continuously since the early 1800's. The Kona name only applies to beans grown in North and South Kona, and Hawaiian Kona Coffee that is grown elsewhere in cannot be called Kona coffee.
The Perfect Climate
Coffee requires a very specific combination of sun, soil, and water and is successfully grown in only a limited number of locations round the world. The bright sunny mornings, humid rainy afternoons, and mild nights create perfect growing conditions for exotic plants to flourish. The coffee plants thrive on the volcanic rocky land, and mild frost-free temperatures.
Small Independent Farms
The Kona region contains approximately 600 independent coffee farms. The majority are small, usually three to seven acres in size and mostly are family owned.
Hand-Picked, Meticulously Cultivated Coffee
Coffee cultivation is more labor intensive in Kona than in most other areas. From August to January, the Kona coffee farmer is only focused on bringing in the red ripe coffee cherry beans, processing the cherries into coffee beans, and preparing for the sale or storage of their coffee. Hand-picking is a meticulous process than insures that only cherries at peak maturity are harvested. Since the cherries do not ripen at the same time, the trees will be picked several times throughout the season.
Pride of Production
Many Kona coffee farmers sell the fresh coffee cherry to Kona processors, but there is a recent movement for farmers to mangee the rest of the production up to roasting.
Shop our Kona Coffee and Hawaiian Kona Coffee at www.VolcanicaCoffee.com which has specially selected the best Gourmet Coffee Beans from volcanic regions of the world.
Tuesday, December 07, 2004
Costa Rica Gourmet Coffee
Costa Rican coffee is my personal favorite coffee. Maybe because I am from Costa Rica but after tasting many fine coffees from around the world I still prefer Costa Rican Coffee. Yes Kona Coffee and Blue Mountain Coffee are excellent but something about the aroma and rich flavor always bring me back to Costa Rican.
Costa Rica coffee is full-bodied coffee with a deep, pungent flavor, excellent acidity, and a hint of smokiness. Beans grown in Costa Rica are the result of a unique combination of climate, elevation and soil. Just right - you can taste the special care that goes into every cup.
Costa Rica produces excellent coffee. The volcanic altitude and temperate climate create the ideal growing conditions. It is full-bodied with the excellent acidity typical of the best high-grown Central American coffees. The flavor is deep and pungent with a hint of smokiness lying just below the surface. Costa Rica has a sunny, tingling acidity with a milder flavor. The complicated washed-method of fermenting and drying the coffee cherries creates this juicy tartness and clean refreshing finish. Volcanica Coffee has an exclusive relationship with farmers and cooperative in Costa Rica to bring you the best of the best. It is grown by a number of small farmers, and the finest beans are selected to produce the coffee the best coffee.
Visit Gourmet Coffee from Volcanica Coffee
Costa Rica coffee is full-bodied coffee with a deep, pungent flavor, excellent acidity, and a hint of smokiness. Beans grown in Costa Rica are the result of a unique combination of climate, elevation and soil. Just right - you can taste the special care that goes into every cup.
Costa Rica produces excellent coffee. The volcanic altitude and temperate climate create the ideal growing conditions. It is full-bodied with the excellent acidity typical of the best high-grown Central American coffees. The flavor is deep and pungent with a hint of smokiness lying just below the surface. Costa Rica has a sunny, tingling acidity with a milder flavor. The complicated washed-method of fermenting and drying the coffee cherries creates this juicy tartness and clean refreshing finish. Volcanica Coffee has an exclusive relationship with farmers and cooperative in Costa Rica to bring you the best of the best. It is grown by a number of small farmers, and the finest beans are selected to produce the coffee the best coffee.
Visit Gourmet Coffee from Volcanica Coffee
Wednesday, November 03, 2004
Costa Rica Coffee
One of the best coffees is specialty Costa Rican coffee from an area called Tarrazu. Volcanica Coffee has a great selection of Gourmet Coffee Beans online at http://www.volcanicacoffee.com/.
The flavor is remarkable and one of the best coffees in the world. They also carry other great coffees including Kona Coffee and Blue Mounatain Coffee from Jamaica.
The flavor is remarkable and one of the best coffees in the world. They also carry other great coffees including Kona Coffee and Blue Mounatain Coffee from Jamaica.
