Coffee Flight: A Simple Way to Compare Different Brews

If you love coffee, you’ve probably wondered how to figure out which roast or brew method you like best. A coffee flight lets you taste several coffees side by side, so you can spot the differences without drinking a full cup of each. It’s like a mini tasting menu for your palate, and you only need a few cups, some basic tools, and a curious mind.

Setting Up Your Own Coffee Flight

First, pick three to five coffees you want to compare. You can choose different origins, roast levels, or brewing methods – for example, a light Ethiopian, a medium Guatemalan, and a dark Sumatra. Use the same amount of coffee (about 15 grams) and the same water temperature (around 93°C) for each brew. If you have a scale, weigh the water too; 250 ml per cup works well.

Next, brew each coffee separately but keep the process consistent. A pour‑over, French press, or AeroPress all work; just stick with one method for the whole flight. Pour the coffee into small tasting glasses or cups so you can sip a little at a time. Label each cup with a number or a short note – you’ll thank yourself when you start comparing.

Tasting Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Flight

Start with the lightest coffee first and move to the darkest. This prevents the stronger flavors from overwhelming the more delicate ones. Take a quick sniff before you sip; aroma tells you a lot about the bean’s fruitiness, spice, or earthiness. When you sip, let the coffee coat your mouth, then note the body, acidity, and after‑taste. Jot down a one‑line impression for each cup – something like “bright citrus, clean finish” or “rich chocolate, low acidity.”

Cleaning your palate between sips helps you keep the flavors separate. Use a plain cracker, a sip of water, or a small piece of mild cheese. Don’t rush; give each coffee a few seconds to settle before moving on. After you’ve tasted everything, compare your notes and see which profile you liked best.

Want to spice things up? Add a simple food pairing for each coffee – a piece of dark chocolate with the bold roast, a slice of orange with the light fruitier brew. The pairing can highlight hidden notes and make the flight feel like a full experience.

When you’re done, you’ll have a clearer idea of what you prefer – whether that’s a bright Ethiopian or a smooth Colombian. Use that insight next time you buy beans or order at a café. A coffee flight turns a regular coffee break into a fun, informative tasting session you can repeat whenever you discover new beans.