Complete guide for Quebec enthusiasts. Origin, roast, grind: find the coffee that suits you and your brewing method.

ORIGIN: SINGLE ORIGIN OR BLEND?

A single origin coffee comes from a single farm or region. It expresses a precise terroir: floral for an Ethiopian, chocolatey for a Brazilian, fruity for a Kenyan. A blend seeks balance: roasters combine complementary origins for a consistent profile throughout the seasons.

ROAST: LIGHT, MEDIUM, OR DARK?

Light roast: more acidity, more floral and fruity aromas, less bitterness. Ideal for filter coffee. Dark roast: more body, more bitterness, fewer nuances. For classic espresso. At Carrera Café, we primarily work with medium to medium-light roasts: the best of both worlds.

FRESHNESS: THE DECISIVE CRITERION

Coffee beans should be used between 5 and 30 days after the roast date. After this time, the aromas fade. That's why we regularly source from roasters who clearly indicate the date on their bags. Freshness is not optional: it's the foundation.

GRIND: ADAPTED TO YOUR METHOD

Fine grind for espresso. Medium grind for filter coffee or Chemex. Coarse grind for French press. If you buy whole beans — which we recommend — invest in a good burr grinder. It's the best coffee investment you can make.