FAQs
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How should I store my coffee to keep it fresh?
To keep your coffee fresh, store it in our resealable bags, which are designed to lock in freshness and protect against moisture, light, and air. Keep the bag in a cool, dark place, away from heat and strong odours. Avoid refrigerating or freezing, as this can introduce moisture. Use within 2-4 weeks for the best flavour.
What brewing methods can I use your coffee with?
You can use our coffee with any brewing method—Phin filter, espresso machine, French Press, Aeropress, pour-over, or drip coffee maker. Each method has unique requirements, like grind size, tamping pressure, and water temperature. For example, use a coarse grind for French Press, medium-coarse for pour-over, and fine for espresso. Select the correct grind on our website, and follow the specific technique to ensure the best results.
What is the best grind size for a Phin filter?
The best grind size for a Phin filter is medium-coarse, similar to coarse sand. This ensures water flows through the coffee grounds at the right pace for optimal extraction, producing a rich, flavourful brew. If you're ordering from our website, selecting the coarse grind setting will be perfect for your Phin filter. Too fine a grind can cause clogging, while too coarse may result in under-extraction.
What's the difference between Robusta and Arabica coffee beans?
When comparing specialty Arabica to specialty Robusta, it’s important to understand that both can offer exceptional coffee experiences, each with their unique characteristics that cater to different palates.
Specialty Arabica is celebrated for its nuanced and complex flavor profiles. It often presents a wide range of taste notes, from fruity and floral to sweet, chocolaty, or nutty undertones. The beans are grown at higher altitudes, which contributes to the slower maturation of cherries and results in more concentrated flavors within the beans. Specialty Arabica is known for its bright acidity that adds liveliness to the cup without being overpowering.
Specialty Robusta, on the other hand, is gaining recognition in the specialty coffee scene for its own distinctive qualities. When cultivated and processed with care, specialty Robusta can exhibit a rich and smooth flavor profile with hints of chocolate and earthy notes. It is typically more full-bodied than Arabica, providing a creamy texture and a strong, satisfying finish. The higher caffeine content of Robusta can also contribute to a more pronounced flavour, which is appreciated by those who enjoy a bold cup of coffee.
Both specialty Arabica and specialty Robusta have their place in the coffee industry. Specialty Arabica is often associated with a more delicate and refined cup, while specialty Robusta is recognized for its robust and flavorful character. The choice between them ultimately depends on personal taste preferences and the desire to explore different aspects of coffee’s rich and diverse flavour spectrum. Before you make up your mind, try some Robusta coffee - we promise it will surprise you. VietCaPhe’s focus on high-quality Robusta is a testament to the bean’s potential and a step towards broadening the appreciation for all that coffee can be.
Why don't cafes use Robusta Coffee beans?
Cafes often opt for Arabica beans over Robusta for a few reasons. Arabica beans are generally perceived to have a smoother, more desirable flavour profile with higher acidity and lower bitterness. They are also more aromatic and complex in taste compared to Robusta beans, which can be stronger and harsher. Additionally, Arabica beans command higher prices in the market, which can be associated with higher quality in the minds of consumers.
Robusta beans, on the other hand, have a reputation for being less refined in flavour. They are often described as having a more bitter and astringent taste, which can be off-putting to some coffee drinkers. However, this is not an inherent flaw of the Robusta bean; rather, it’s a challenge for producers and roasters to unlock the bean’s potential through careful cultivation and roasting techniques.
Moreover, the coffee industry and consumer preferences have been historically skewed towards Arabica beans, leading to a lack of exposure and appreciation for high-quality Robusta beans in mainstream cafes. This is the narrative that VietCaPhe, is aiming to change by showcasing the depth and richness of properly sourced and roasted Vietnamese Robusta beans.
I love the taste of Robusta coffee, but don't like how much caffeine it has, what can I do?
Rest assured, Robusta coffee contains higher levels of caffeine and chlorogenic acid. This combination allows for a slower release of caffeine compared to Arabica, resulting in sustained energy without the crash or jitters.
How Long Does Shipping Take?
We process orders within 1-2 business days. Standard shipping typically takes 2-8 business days, while express shipping ranges from 1-4 business days.
Are your products organic or sustainably sourced?
Our products are not certified organic; however, the robusta species of coffee is naturally more pest-resistant than arabica, which means significantly fewer pesticides are required during cultivation. Additionally, our coffee is sustainably sourced, ensuring farmers receive a fair price for their hard work, supporting their livelihoods and fostering environmentally friendly practices.
How is your coffee processed?
Processing Method
At VietCaPhe, our Robusta beans are honey-processed, a unique method that lies between washed and natural processing. This technique involves leaving some of the coffee cherry's mucilage (a sticky, honey-like layer) on the beans during drying. The result is a cup with balanced acidity, a touch of natural sweetness, and enhanced body, making it perfect for those who enjoy a smooth, rich coffee experience without overly bright or sharp notes.
This processing method contributes to VietCaPhe’s distinct flavour profile, ensuring a comforting, versatile coffee that suits a wide range of palates.