How to Read a Coffee Bag Without Feeling Overwhelmed
How to Read a Coffee Bag Without Feeling Overwhelmed
Coffee bags are covered in words, numbers, certifications, and coordinates—but they're not trying to confuse you.
They're trying to tell you a story.
Once you understand what to look for, choosing coffee becomes easier, more enjoyable, and more intentional.
Let's walk through a real coffee bag step by step, using El Trueno as our example.
1. The Coffee Name
EL TRUENO
This isn't just branding—it's identity.
Coffee names often reflect:
- The producer's story
- The region's character
- The personality of the coffee itself
El Trueno means "The Thunder" in Spanish—a name chosen to reflect its bold brightness, vibrant citrus notes, and floral intensity.
The name gives you a hint of what's inside the bag.
2. Origin (This Is One of the Most Important Details)
Marcala, Honduras
Origin tells you where the coffee was grown—and geography shapes flavor.
Different regions create different taste profiles:
- Ethiopia → floral, fruity, tea-like
- Colombia → balanced, nutty, chocolatey
- Honduras → sweet, bright, complex
Marcala is one of Honduras's most celebrated coffee regions, known for:
✓ High-altitude farms (cooler temperatures = slower cherry development)
✓ Bright, clean cups
✓ Floral and citrus-forward profiles
When you see Marcala on a bag, you know you're getting quality and tradition.
3. Altitude
1,750 meters
Altitude matters because higher elevation = better coffee.
Here's why:
- Cooler temperatures slow cherry maturation
- Slower growth = more time to develop sugars
- More sweetness, better balance, more complexity
1,750 meters is considered high altitude—a strong indicator of quality.
4. Flavor Notes (Not Ingredients)
Honey • Citrus • Sweet Fruits
This is one of the most misunderstood parts of the label.
Flavor notes are NOT added ingredients.
They describe the natural flavors already present in the coffee due to:
- Soil composition
- Varietal genetics
- Processing method
- Roast development
Think of them as a tasting guide, not a guarantee. Your palate might notice different things—and that's perfectly normal.
5. Roast Level
Medium Roast
Roast level affects intensity and flavor expression, not quality.
- Light roast → brighter acidity, more origin character
- Medium roast → balanced sweetness and body
- Dark roast → bold, smoky, caramelized
El Trueno's medium roast preserves its natural floral and citrus notes while adding body and drinkability.
6. Coordinates (Yes, Really)
14.1381° N, 88.0253° W
Some bags include exact GPS coordinates.
This isn't overkill—it's radical transparency.
It tells you: "This coffee came from this exact farm. You can look it up. You can trust it."
At Raíces, we believe every bean tells a story—and that story should be traceable.
What Actually Matters Most?
If you only remember three things when choosing coffee:
- Origin – Where it's from shapes how it tastes
- Freshness – Roast date matters more than brand name
- Flavor notes you enjoy – Trust your palate
Everything else is helpful context, but those three will guide you to great coffee every time.
Taste the Story for Yourself
Once you understand the bag, the coffee tastes even better—because now you know the land, the hands, and the care behind every cup.
