The Secret's in the Gas: Why Freshly Roasted Coffee is Still "Alive" When It Arrives

At Brewtay Coffee, we are obsessed with freshness. We believe that the best coffee experience comes from beans that are roasted just for you, right before they are shipped. That is why we roast every single order after it is placed. But there is another fascinating element to freshly roasted coffee that you might have noticed: degassing.

What is Degassing and Why Does it Matter?

When coffee beans are roasted, a series of chemical reactions occur, transforming the green beans into the aromatic, flavorful delights we know and love. One of the byproducts of this transformation is the creation of gases, primarily carbon dioxide (CO2), which become trapped within the bean structure.

After roasting, these gases slowly release over time, a process called degassing. Think of it like the coffee beans breathing out after their intense roasting experience. This degassing process is crucial for optimal flavor.

Why You Want Your Coffee to Degas (But Not Too Much)

• Freshness Indicator: The presence of these gases is a sign that your coffee is truly fresh. If you receive coffee that is already completely degassed, it has likely been sitting around for a while, losing its precious aroma and flavor compounds.
• Flavor Development: While degassing, the coffee flavor profile continues to develop and evolve. Many believe that coffee reaches its peak flavor a few days after roasting, once it has had a chance to rest and release some of its CO2.
• Brewing Considerations: Too much CO2 can interfere with the brewing process, leading to uneven extraction and a less-than-ideal cup. That is why it is often recommended to let freshly roasted coffee rest for a few days before brewing, especially for pour-over or drip methods.

What to Expect When Your Brewtay Coffee Arrives

Because we roast to order, your Brewtay Coffee will likely arrive while it is still actively degassing. You might even notice that the bag is slightly puffed up, that is the CO2 at work! Here is what you can expect:

• A Noticeably Fresh Aroma: The first thing you will likely notice is the incredibly vibrant aroma emanating from the bag. This is a sign of peak freshness.
• A Lively Brew: When you first brew your freshly roasted coffee, you might see more bubbling and blooming than usual. This is the CO2 being released during the brewing process.
• Developing Flavors: Your coffee flavor profile may continue to evolve over the next few days as it degasses.

Tips for Enjoying Freshly Roasted Coffee

• Store it Properly: Keep your beans in an airtight container, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. The valve on your Brewtay bag is a one-way valve that lets CO2 out but keeps oxygen out, preserving your coffee freshness.
• Grind Fresh: For the best results, grind your beans just before brewing. A quality burr grinder like the Encore ESP Coffee Grinder makes a noticeable difference in flavor clarity.
• Let it Rest: While you can certainly brew your coffee right away, allowing it to rest for 3-7 days after the roast date can often result in a more balanced and nuanced cup.
• Adjust Your Brewing: If you notice excessive bubbling or an uneven extraction, try slightly adjusting your method, such as using a coarser grind or a slower pour.
• Enjoy the Journey: Pay attention to how the flavors change over time and discover your personal preference for the sweet spot in the degassing process.

Freshness You Can Taste

At Brewtay Coffee, we are committed to delivering the freshest, most flavorful specialty grade coffee possible. Our roast-to-order approach and careful attention to the degassing process ensure that you experience the full potential of every bean.

The easiest way to never sacrifice freshness? Our Coffee Club subscription delivers freshly roasted beans to your door on your schedule. Start with our Single Origin Sampler to find your go-to roast, then set it and forget it. Embrace the liveliness of freshly roasted coffee and savor the difference that freshness makes.