Coffee is one of the most popular drinks in the world. Its aroma can be found in households, cafes and almost every corner of the street. It is said to have a particular invigorating effect, energizing and helping one to be more productive during the day. Numerous questions arise as to whether coffee can be an actual hobby: is it possible to enjoy the process and get the same satisfaction as from other hobbies?
Coffee is a drink that provides individuals with pleasure, helps them reenergize, and can give them an overall feeling of refreshment. It’s a known fact that when most individuals drink coffee, they are taking in more than just the pleasure of a delicious beverage; they are also experiencing a feeling of satisfaction, which is often associated with the ultimate hobby.
When the question is posed to coffee enthusiasts, the question is often answered with “of course!” There are those who seek out different kinds of coffee from all over the world, just like how a hobbyist may search for the perfect stones for their collection. There are coffee drinkers who experiment with combinations of coffee and brewing styles.
Coffee is growing more and more popular not only because it is a tasty drink, but because it is a hobby for many. Some take pride in roasting their own beans, grinding them and then customizing the brew in different ways. Not only does this lead to great-tasting coffee, but it also provides the satisfaction of building the perfect cup of coffee.
Furthermore, the coffee-drinking hobby has its own gadgets and tools. Grinders and coffee makers have their own sets of features, so a coffee enthusiast can find the best one that meets their standards. Additionally, there are always flashy new gadgets offering new features which one can try and add to their coffee-making toolkit. Brewing coffee is much more than just combining hot water and ground beans in a cup— a coffee enthusiast can use science and creativity to create their own espresso or latte.
On the other hand, some people differentiate between drinking coffee and having it as a hobby. According to them, making coffee is most certainly a hobby, involving passion, skill and knowledge about the drink. But just ‘drinking’ coffee does not really qualify as a hobby due to its repetition and lack of exploration.
Coffee Appreciation Clubs
The appreciation of coffee has grown exponentially over the years, leading to the emergence of many clubs and organizations dedicated to it. These clubs are often places where one can discuss various aspects of coffee, from its origin up to its flavor and intensity. Coffee clubs offer social gatherings centered on a shared interest in coffee, including informal tastings and courses on brewing, roasting and tasting.
Experts often share their knowledge on brewing or roasting, taking the opportunity to discuss the history and science behind coffee making. Through the clubs, even the newest members can gain valuable information about the craft and trade of specialty coffee.
Collecting Coffee Making Gadgets
Similar to those who collect classic cars or antiques, some coffee enthusiasts collect vintage and rare coffee making gadgets. Addictions to such gadgets range from classic espresso makers to newfangled high-tech single-serve machines.
It is a fun way to start and appreciate the craft, allowing individuals to share their findings as well as their stories of finding the special pieces they own. Collectors and enthusiasts alike can also visit dedicated cafes and stores that provides collections of such gadgets—items that are rare and rarely used.
Moreover, some companies have created special collectors’ sets where instead of just buying the same piece in bulk, one can get the whole set in a nice package. Such sets often come bundled with vintage posters, labels or mugs; or, alternatively, with a special price, making it appealing for those passionate about coffee brewing.
Virtual Coffee Communities
The internet has become an important place for coffee enthusiasts to convene. There are an assortment of online communities dedicated to sharing knowledge, showcasing coffee makers and brewers and offering opportunities to buy coffee from all over the world.
Online forums are a great way for coffee-makers to connect and learn from one another. Much like the coffee appreciation clubs mentioned earlier, online forums also offer various coffee-related topics, such as coffee tasting, how to roast coffee beans, coffee recipes, and even discussions on coffee-related gadgets.
Moreover, these online communities often have a special feature where members can virtually share their coffee experiences and creations. In addition to that, these virtual coffee networks also offer Q&A sessions and host workshops where coffee enthusiasts can come together to share their ideas and stories.
Roasting and Brewing Classes
If you are looking to hone your coffee-making skills, or wanting to learn more about the craft, there are now a multitude of classes, both in-person and online, available. These classes can range from basic knowledge, such as understanding coffee quality and taste, to advanced methods of roasting and brewing.
In-person classes are popular for those who want to gain a hands-on experience with brewing, roasting, and grinding. Additionally, classes that focus on traditional brewing methods such as Moka pot, V60 and French press, are very useful for those who want to learn these classic techniques.
On the other hand, there are also online classes that offer simpler and less expensive methods of learning the craft. These classes are designed to be shorter and offer comprehensive instruction, in order to make sure that one can acquire the desired skills without having to attend extensive lessons.
Competition and Awards
For those passionate enough about coffee, competitions play an important role. Barista championships are held around the world, and provide one of the most exciting ways for any individual to show their coffee-making skills.
In addition to competition, some awards are also made available for those who have demonstrated particular skill in brewing. For example, the United States Barista Championship, in which coffee professionals from all over the world compete to win the title of the US Barista Champion.
At the same time, there are also awards given to coffee shops, such as the Barista Magazine’s Barista Choice Award. This is an annual award that recognizes coffee shops that demonstrate the highest standards in coffee quality, customer service, and customer experience.
Coffee Tours
Coffee tours are another great way to enjoy the craft while travelling. These tours offer an opportunity to visit coffee farms, learn more about the production and processing, and even try some of the coffees that have yet to be discovered.
Most of these tours are also led by knowledgeable guides who can feed the audience with information regarding fair trade and sustainability. These tours are a great way to really experience the culture of coffee, and to immerse oneself in the different stages of the production process.
Even though the tours may appear too expensive for those who are just starting to appreciate the craft, they are perfect for those who wish to know more about what goes into producing and sourcing the perfect cup of coffee.
Coffee Subscriptions and Boxes
The subscription boxes and coffee club subscriptions are becoming more and more popular for coffee enthusiasts. The idea behind it is to offer customers with the opportunity to discover and enjoy different varieties of coffee beans, which they otherwise may not have access to.
Coffee clubs such as Blue Bottle Coffee, Counter Culture, Angels’ Cup and Just Coffee, have made it easy for those who appreciate the craft to receive deliveries of coffees from all over the world. Furthermore, subscription boxes and clubs may even come with some added perks, such as events and rewards, which can give the customers more incentive to explore and appreciate the craft.
At the same time, there are also some subscription boxes which are designed for those who are new to coffee making, containing equipment and basic measurements for good coffee, as well as a guide to understanding what it takes to make the perfect cup of joe.
Specialty Cafes
Coffee shops, cafes and other locations have become the heart of the coffee-making industry. It is where the craft of coffee making is developed, refined and shared. Experienced baristas often hold workshops and classes to educate customers about the different ways of roasting, brewing and enjoying coffee, further contributing to the popularization of the craft.
Additionally, specialty cafes are much more than just places for coffee consumption. They also provide a space for people to connect, to socialize and to find out more about the craft. These cafes can also host special events, such as open mic nights, and competitions, which can provide a great atmosphere and a platform for those passionate about coffee.
Coffee has grown to become a recognized hobby in many parts of the world. With its growing popularity, individuals are beginning to find ways to appreciate its beauty and explore its possibilities. The craft of coffee is continuously being refined, bringing with it a great deal of pleasure and satisfaction. For those passionate enough, drinking coffee is indeed a hobby—and a joy.
