I'm working my way through a sampler pack that came with my roaster, but there are a few other coffee's I'd like to pick up. What else should I add to my order? 
What should coffee should I buy from Sweet Marias?
- Thread starter TimmyBoston
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Hi Tim,
Depending on when you order, the offerings change quite a bit since it is a seasonal crop. The Tolima-area coffees are excellent, and I would point you toward any of the Kenyas. Tom consistently gets some of the best Kenyas out there, and it is a good opportunity to try the style (very fruity and acidic in a good way).
What did you like out of the sampler?
Depending on when you order, the offerings change quite a bit since it is a seasonal crop. The Tolima-area coffees are excellent, and I would point you toward any of the Kenyas. Tom consistently gets some of the best Kenyas out there, and it is a good opportunity to try the style (very fruity and acidic in a good way).
What did you like out of the sampler?
Scotto makes good points. Its tough to recommend coffees to someone if you don't know their preferences. I like zippy coffees with bright acidity, so I go mostly for Centrals, Africans, and WP Ethiopians. Earthy, low-acid coffees aren't my thing. The best thing I can tell you is to pay attention to Tom's reviews and cupping scores....over the years I've learned to trust his instincts so I can order with confidence! It takes a little trial and error, but once you have even the flimsiest baseline formed, you can run with it. Another good source of info is Ken David's coffeereview.com.
Agreed. Once you have identified where your preferences lie (bright/acidic...smooth/earthy...both?), then it is easier to narrow down your test bed. Test being the operative word. Order and experience the enjoyment of the ride! I'm constantly discovering that my tastes are changing. A while back, I ordered a 10 lb bag of Rwanda Gkongoro...5 lbs later, I find that it's still "good," but somewhat flat and boring. Now I know to try something either a little earthier/funkier or brighter/more acidic.
Good luck and have fun. We're still fortunate enough that green coffee is cheap enough to play around with and not sink the financial ship in the process.
Good luck and have fun. We're still fortunate enough that green coffee is cheap enough to play around with and not sink the financial ship in the process.
They have so many and it's an individual thing. read the cupping reviews and based on what you like make your choice.
I'll go ahead and suggest Sidamo, as well.
In fact, I just had a five pound bag delivered early last week.
Tons of flavor. Roast `til the beans hit first crack and pull `em off to cool and breathe.
Also, being a small bean, you'll want to watch them closely, and pulling them right after first crack will ensure you don't scorch them, which could happen easily if you don't pay attention.
In fact, I just had a five pound bag delivered early last week.
Tons of flavor. Roast `til the beans hit first crack and pull `em off to cool and breathe.
Also, being a small bean, you'll want to watch them closely, and pulling them right after first crack will ensure you don't scorch them, which could happen easily if you don't pay attention.
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I was just ready to place my order and they sold out of Sidamo! 
Tom, Maria, and the rest are very good at answering questions. Be prepared to discuss your preferences, especially concerning the samples included with your roaster. They'll be happy to assist you! Once you can relate to Tom's reviews and cupping scores, choosing beans will be a breeze. It helps to learn the lingo, they have tons of info on the site. Ken David's book on home roasting is a must-read!
