So You Want to Be a Barista?

Merit Coffee Breaks it Down.

The Merit Coffee Barista Training is a masterclass in coffee. We teach everything about how to achieve the ideal extraction, creating a vast variety of coffee drinks.

• Origin Characteristics of the beans in terms of terrain, climate, altitude, cultivars, and processing methods after harvest: Natural, Honey, and Washed.
• Taste Profiles of the roasting process and the best brew method to bring out the optimum flavors.
• Grind Size tailored to different brew methods. The grind size affects the surface area of the coffee in contact with water, influencing the rate of extraction.
• Tamping distribution of the grounds ensures consistent extraction by creating a uniform surface for the water to pass through. 
• Water Quality regarding mineral content and filtration.
• Water Temperature at the optimal range between 195°F and 205°F (90°C to 96°C). Water that is too hot can over-extract the coffee, leading to bitterness, while water that is too cold can result in under-extraction, leading to a weak and sour brew.
• Brew Methods range from pour-overs to espresso beverages. Each method has its unique characteristics that affect the flavor profile.
• Brew Time involves the duration of the brewing process to extract optimal flavor. 
• Coffee-to-Water Ratio determines the strength and intensity of the brew.
• Milk Steaming to achieve that smooth, velvety microfoam.
• Latte Art for an elevated and delightful flourish.
• Flavor Balance creating a myriad of signature drinks through the use of milks, house-made syrups and creative inspiration from our skilled R&D team. 
• Cleaning and Maintenance to prevent buildup of residue, oils, and milk solids. This ensures consistent quality and equipment care.

TIPS FOR GREAT COFFEE AT HOME

 • Try a new coffee roast. You may be delighted with a crisp, bright floral profile you never knew existed!

• Try a new brewing method. Pour-Over, French Press, AeroPress—there’s more to coffee than Drip brewing! (although we like that, too!)
• Measure and grind to brewing method.
• Use filtered water. Seriously, it makes a difference.
• Water Temperature should be between 195°-205°F.
• Clean your brewing equipment!
• Store your beans in an airtight container away from heat, sunlight, and spices.