Our QC Team's Kayla never misses a chance to tinker with her coffees. And with some extra time to play, she’s found a few new favorites that she’s sharing in this week’s Staff Picks.
“I’ve had a lot of time to stay inside and drink coffee this summer, and with that, a lot of time for experimentation. I’ve gathered some of my favorite cups and matched them with a brew method or two that I’ve enjoyed the most. I hope this inspires you to try different brewing methods with different coffees!”
"From the subregion of Gera, this is one of my favorites of the season. In my Chemex, I’m tasting ripe blueberries, nectarine, and lemon candy with a finish that reminds me of a floral oolong tea. When I make this one in my AeroPress the nectarine turns into the juiciest peach, the lemon candy into lemonade, with a floral finish that lasts forever."
Wonderstate Ethiopia Genji Challa ($20)
"A lovely picture of coffees from Nyeri, I’m making this selection from Onyx as an iced pour over. Raw honey sweetness carries nectarine, red currant, and flavors of black tea — all wrapped up in a densely creamy body for a cup that’s as complex as it is refreshing."
Onyx Kenya Gachatha OT-18 ($22)
"Stay Golden’s La Esperanza is big and fruity with distinct flavors of ripe strawberries and kiwi, plus a bold dark chocolate flavor that adds a stunning depth. I’m enjoying this one hot or iced, with the fruitier flavors being more prominent when flash chilled."
Stay Golden Colombia La Esperanza
"A comforting favorite of mine, I love drinking this smooth and balanced cup first thing in the morning. Delicious in either my Chemex or Moccamaster, I’m tasting ripe nectarine, toasted pecans, and tangerine with a satisfying brown sugar sweetness."