Espresso or Expresso?
Espresso, with an S...end of story. It is an Italian word. Deal with it.
Well...almost the end. Espresso also is NOT a bean. It is NOT a roast level.
Espresso is a brewing method by which hot water (90deg C) is passed through finely ground coffee at high pressure (~9 bar) for 20-30 seconds. The Italian standard is 7gr coffee to produce 25ml of liquid (just under 1oz) for a "single".
The specialty coffee industry has been playing with this "standard" for some time, and it is nearly impossible to find a true Italian standard espresso anymore. Most shops are now dosing 18-21gr "doubles" as the standard "shot". I personally like 18.3gr coffee (Trunch blend) to produce 38gr in cup (yes, I weigh the shot in grams not liquid ounces).
So, if Espresso isn't a bean or roast level, why do you see bags labeled "Espresso?" Mostly it's marketing. However, like our Trunch blend, some places formulate a coffee blend that best highlights the coffee when brewed as espresso. But, go ahead, brew it anyway you like.
What's the deal with "resting" coffee?
This could be one of the most contentious subjects in coffee. Fact - roasted coffee has thousands of chemical reactions that take place, one of which is the production of CO2 gas. For quite some time after roasting, the beans release this gas and "settle". So, there are changes happening AFTER the roasting is done. This is scientifically proven.
So, when is the best time to drink the coffee? Taste is subjective. Some people will not touch a coffee until many days post-roast because they were told that's the way to do it. But, it really depends on the bean, the roast level, and your taste buds. The reality is, the best time to drink it is when you like it. I've made coffee when the beans were still warm from the roaster and it was awesome. I've made coffee with beans that were 3 weeks old and it was awesome. So, store your beans whole in a good container, and do a taste experiment for your self.
Do you ship? Why can't I buy NoTa Coffee online?
We are currently licensed under a Class A California Cottage Food Operation license (DEH2018-FCFO-000595). This grants us permission to sell direct only. So, you'll just have to find us at a local farmers market or in person (seriously...if you see Daniel, just ask him what's in stock and for sale.) Everything is roasted to order.