Becoming a coffee taster isn't as easy as it may seem. Sure, you may love coffee and be able to make mental notes about which coffee you like and why, but becoming a coffee taster is a career that requires a delicate palette, great taste buds and a good knowledge of the science and art of making great coffee. Becoming a coffee taster is a lot like any professional who tastes food and beverage products for a living.
Think of becoming a coffee taster in a similar way to tasting great wines for much of it is the same process. There's a lot more to it than just drinking coffee, that's for sure. Becoming a coffee taster requires you to sample each batch of roasted coffees, letting the roaster know what adjustments need to be made, tweaking the blends and often buying the coffee in smaller concerns.
Becoming a coffee taster takes years of experience, often serving under the tutelage of a professional coffee taster. As an apprentice, you can learn from the best, making the process of becoming a coffee taster a more fruitful undertaking. If you're interested in becoming a coffee taster, you may want to check out the International Institute of Coffee Tasters.
It is a nonprofit association that is dedicated to those interested in becoming a coffee taster, offering courses and training on the art and science of coffee tasting. The association has helped 6,000 people in becoming a coffee taster worldwide. They have also overseen the development of the perfect taster cup for espresso and have a certificate program for Espresso Italiano Specialists.
Those interested in becoming a coffee taster and even moving to the level of Professional Master of Coffee Science and Sensory Analysis will find the association a real godsend. The course covers everything, from production and tasting the product to ensuring that customers have the maximum flavor experience. If you're thinking about becoming a coffee taster, here are some recommendations. Love coffee. As a coffee taster, you may sample 300 cups a day. You have to love all the nuances of coffee, otherwise becoming a coffee taster will be a total waste of your time.
Work in a coffeehouse.
This is a great way to learn about the different roasts and regions. If you are interested in becoming a coffee taster, you may want to opt for an independent coffeehouse. A national chain may not have the diversity of blends, roasts and preparations. Find a professional taster who will mentor you. This is perhaps one of the best ways to get your foot in the door. Contact the professional taster directly and create a relationship before asking to be mentored.