When it comes to coffee tasting, it’s important to consider the three key characteristics that you’ll find in every cup: acidity, body, and finish.

Acidity: The brightness, liveliness, or tanginess of the coffee. A high-acidity coffee might remind you of citrus fruits, while low-acidity options tend to be smoother and less sharp.
Body: Describes the “weight” or texture of the coffee on your tongue. A light-bodied coffee might feel smoother, while a full-bodied one has a richer, creamier texture for a thick mouthfeel.
Finish: The lingering taste after swallowing. Some coffees leave a clean, crisp finish, while others offer a long-lasting, complex aftertaste.

These elements are crucial for coffee aficionados to recognise and by paying attention to them, you can start to discern the subtle differences between coffee blends and discover what suits your palate best.

To learn more about other coffee terms, check out our article “ Nespresso's Comprehensive Glossary of Coffee Terms You Should Know”.