In today’s hip coffee scene, where cafes are more like coffee sanctuaries, people have become pickier about their brews. It’s not just about getting your caffeine fix anymore; it’s about embarking on a flavor adventure, diving into the depths of coffee origins, and exploring brewing methods like you’re on a caffeinated journey to enlightenment. This shift in coffee culture has created two distinct camps: the coffee snobs and coffee connoisseurs. Which one are you?

COFFEE SNOBS VS. COFFEE CONNOISSEURS: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

So, what sets these coffee camps apart? Well, a coffee snob is all about appearances. They’re into trendy coffee joints, limited edition blends, and fancy packaging. For them, coffee isn’t just a drink; it’s a lifestyle statement.  They might be the first to try the newest oat milk latte variation at a hyped pop-up shop and document the entire experience on social media.

On the flip side, a coffee connoisseur is all about the nitty-gritty of coffee—its production, processing, and brewing. They savor every sip, picking up on flavors, aromas, and textures like it’s a fine wine tasting. They’re all about the specialty beans, the single-origin brews, and the brewing methods that bring out the best in each bean. Connoisseurs might even grind their own beans at home with a fancy burr grinder and meticulously control every aspect of the brewing process using a pour-over method.

SO, WHICH COFFEE CAMP ARE YOU IN?

You’re a coffee snob if:

• Sleek branding, chic aesthetics, and marketing campaigns that scream exclusivity call your name.
• Buzzwords like “limited edition” and “artisanal” get you excited.
• Your Instagram feed is overflowing with latte art.
• Your coffee needs its own instagrammable moment.
• A coffee shop needs to have plenty of customization options because you love to personalize your brews with flavored syrups, alternative milks, and extra shots.

You’re a coffee connoisseur if:

• Your focus is always on the beans. You can differentiate between a Kenyan and a Colombian roast based on their tasting notes.
• Quality and authenticity are what you’re looking for. You appreciate ethically sourced beans and support local roasters.
• You discuss brewing techniques like a pro. You can explain the difference between a Chemex and a French press and know how each method impacts the final cup.
• You want to know where your coffee is from. You’re curious about the origin story of your beans and appreciate the hard work that goes into every cup.
• The more information you have on a certain type of bean, the more excited you are to try it. You love exploring new flavor profiles and appreciate the complexity of specialty coffee.

At the end of the day, whether you are coffee snobs or coffee connoisseurs, the goal is the same: to drink an unforgettable coffee experience. There’s no shame in enjoying a beautifully crafted latte or appreciating the intricate details of a well-brewed single-origin cup. The important thing is to find what brings you joy in your coffee journey.