DO BEANS MAKE A DIFFERENCE?

Short answer. Yes. Coffee starts to lose its flavour once it's ground — so if you want to get the most flavour then whole beans are your best bet.

SHOULD I FREEZE MY COFFEE?

This is one of the most popular questions I have been asked and I think it is safe to say it is an old wives tale. Big science involved just take our word for it and don’t do it.

WHAT DOES THE VALVE ON THE BAG DO?

Coffee gives off carbon dioxide for about two weeks after it is roasted. The valve allows the carbon dioxide to escape without letting oxygen or moisture in, both of which make your coffee go stale quicker.

HOW SHOULD I STORE MY COFFEE?

There are some pretty snazzy tins like Atmos and Airscape to keep your precious coffee at its optimum. However, the basics are to keep it away from heat, not in direct sunlight and in an airtight container. The valve bags you buy your coffee are great and if they don’t come with a zip you can always fold the top over and secure it with a clothes peg. Old school.

DOES THE ROAST DATE MATTER?

Coffee going stale is a result of exposure to oxygen in the air. So, the nearer to roast-date then the fresher your coffee because it will have less exposure to air. You'll enjoy more intense flavours in your brew.