Think Wine Tasting, but with Coffee: My Experience at Press Coffee Roaster’s Interactive 101 Class
When I signed up for Press Coffee’s 101 class, I wasn’t entirely convinced that I’d walk out a coffee aficionado. But as it turns out, I left with some serious coffee knowledge. Everything from where coffee originates, to how it’s processed, to what it takes to get it from the farm to your cup.
I stumbled upon this class thanks to Eventbrite’s “events you might like” feature (they know me so well), and seeing Press Coffee’s name didn’t hurt. Press Coffee is always listed as one of the valley’s premier coffee roasters. After all, they have 12 locations around Arizona and even supply coffee to multiple retail spots across the valley.
The Scene at Press Coffee
We arrived to find Press buzzing with coffee drinkers in the front, some sipping and socializing, others laser-focused on laptops. In the back, there’s a spacious second level for more seating, but we stayed downstairs, where three enormous coffee bean roasters sat in all their luxuriousness, along with our cozy 12-person classroom setup. It was perfect for both tasting and learning.
Our host welcomed us with a steamy cup of Gesha coffee. This rare, high-end coffee ($50 per cup, just FYI!) has a unique profile that’s more tea-like than coffee-like, and he wasn’t kidding. It was a delicate, almost floral flavor, unlike anything I’d tasted in coffee form.
The Class Kicks Off
From there, we dove into the rich world of coffee. We learned about origins, flavors, and roasting techniques. A cool part of the tasting was letting each blend cool down a bit and then trying it again. Who knew a little time could bring out so many different notes?
My Favorite Coffee Roast
My favorite roast was Brazil Mogiano for its boldness, but it was also subtle. I like a medium roast. Right up the middle. My husband? He was into them all!
Behind-the-Scenes of Coffee Bean Roasting
We wrapped up with a behind-the-scenes look at the roasters and even learned about the farm Press Coffee owns, which supplies their unique beans. If you love coffee, want a fun outing with friends, or cool date idea, I can’t recommend this class enough. And yes, you even get a code for a free bag of coffee with a subscription (no pressure to keep it, but why wouldn’t you?!).
Press Coffee 101 Details, Sign-Up, and Cost
- This class sells out fast, so once you’re set, book it quickly! https://www.eventbrite.com/o/press-coffee-roasters-12780717118
- Cost: $25 per person
- Location Visited: Press Coffee-The Roastery, 10443 N. 32nd Street, Phoenix, AZ 85028
So, who’s ready to sip like a pro?
Sharonda Shariee - Curating a Life Well-Lived 