How long should I rest coffee for home brewing?
Resting coffee beans after roasting is a crucial step to unlock their full flavor potential. While it might be tempting to brew coffee immediately after roasting, allowing the beans to rest lets them degas and stabilize, resulting in a more balanced and enjoyable cup.
Why Resting Coffee Beans Matters
When coffee beans are roasted, gases (primarily carbon dioxide) build up inside them. These gases need time to escape, a process called degassing. Freshly roasted beans can have an overly intense or “green” taste because the trapped gases interfere with proper extraction during brewing. Resting allows these gases to dissipate, helping the coffee’s nuanced flavors to shine.
Ideal Resting Time
Our recommendation is 2 weeks from the roast date indicated on the bottom of your bag. Beyond that, it really depends on preference.
We encourage you to brew the coffee over time to explore what nuances you find as the coffee rests. While each coffee will age somewhat differently, you can expect coffees to continue tasting great for a number of months!
Packaging and Storage
For optimal results, leave your coffee in its sealed bag during the 10–14 day resting period. Our bags have a one-way degassing valve, allowing gases to escape while keeping oxygen out, preserving the coffee’s freshness.
If you prefer to transfer the coffee, use an airtight container with a degassing valve and store it in a cool, dark place. Avoid opening the bag or container too early to prevent exposure to oxygen, which can impact flavor development.
Proper storage ensures your coffee reaches its peak flavor when you’re ready to brew!