Coffee Quality & Evaluation

How We Select and Evaluate Coffee for Quality and Flavor

At Laughing Bird Coffee Co., selecting the perfect coffee isn’t just about finding beans—it’s about uncovering flavors that tell a story. With years of experience in the specialty coffee industry, I’ve developed a deep understanding of what makes a truly exceptional cup. From sourcing to roasting to brewing, every step in the process plays a crucial role in creating the best possible experience for our customers. Here’s a look at how we evaluate our coffee selection to ensure quality and outstanding flavor.

1. Sourcing: The Foundation of Flavor

The journey starts with selecting high-quality, ethically sourced beans. We prioritize specialty-grade coffee, which represents the top 5% of coffee grown worldwide. Our focus is on:

Shade-grown and bird-friendly coffee that protects ecosystems.
Direct trade relationships with farmers to ensure fair wages and sustainable farming practices.
Distinct regional characteristics—whether it's the floral notes of Ethiopian coffee or the deep chocolatey richness of beans from Central America.

2. Evaluating Freshly Roasted Beans

Once green coffee is received, it’s time to roast and taste-test. Roasting is both an art and a science—every bean reacts differently to heat, and finding the right roast profile is essential. We conduct test batches to analyze:

Bean development – Is the roast too light or too dark?
Evenness – Are the beans roasting uniformly?
Aroma – Before even brewing, great coffee should smell inviting.

3. Cupping: The Industry Standard for Tasting Coffee

Cupping is a structured way of evaluating coffee that allows us to assess its flavor, body, acidity, and aftertaste. Here’s how we do it:

Grind the coffee to a coarse consistency and place it in cupping bowls.
Smell the dry grounds to identify aromas like chocolate, fruit, or spice.
Add hot water and let the coffee steep, forming a crust on top.
Break the crust and inhale deeply—this releases even more aromatic complexity.
Taste with a spoon (yes, we slurp!) to fully experience the flavors and mouthfeel.

4. Identifying the Flavor Profile

Every coffee has a unique flavor profile influenced by origin, processing, and roast. We evaluate:

Acidity – Bright and citrusy, or smooth and mellow?
Body – Light and tea-like, or full and creamy?
Sweetness – Naturally occurring notes of caramel, honey, or fruit.
Balance – Are the flavors harmonious, or does one overpower the others?

5. Testing Brew Methods

Not all coffees shine in the same brew method. We test our coffees using:

Pour-over for clarity and complexity.
French press for richness and body.
Espresso for intensity and crema quality.
Drip Coffee Machine being the most commonly used for brewing.

6. Final Selection and Continuous Evaluation

Only the best coffees make it into our lineup. But the process doesn’t stop once a coffee is selected. We continue to evaluate:

Seasonal freshness – Coffee is an agricultural product, and freshness is key.
Customer feedback – If people love (or don’t love) a coffee, we take note.
Brew consistency – Ensuring every batch meets our high standards.

Why This Matters

At Laughing Bird Coffee Co., we don’t just sell coffee—we craft an experience. Every bag represents careful sourcing, expert roasting, and meticulous tasting. Our mission is to provide coffee that not only tastes incredible but also supports sustainable farming and conservation efforts.

By selecting only the finest beans and perfecting every roast, we ensure that when you brew a cup of our coffee, you’re getting the best flavors possible—fresh, balanced, and unforgettable.

Curious to taste the difference? Explore our coffee selection today!