National Gourmet Coffee Day is celebrated on January 18 every year. While all kinds of coffee are what dreams are made of, gourmet coffee is something exceptional. The quality and consistency of gourmet coffee are distinct from your regular cup of Joe and the secret lies in its beans and creation.
History of National Gourmet Coffee Day
There is no specific origin of coffee that can be pinpointed. Coffee’s past is shrouded in legend and theory, but one thing is certain — it has been around for centuries. It is believed that the ancestors of today’s Oromo people in Ethiopia’s Jimma region were the first to notice the coffee plant’s energizing power. However, there is no definitive evidence that coffee was initially grown before the 15th century, or even where it was first cultivated.
There is evidence of either coffee consumption or knowledge of the coffee tree in Yemeni Sufi monasteries dating back to the early 16th century, which swiftly spread to Mecca and Medina. By the 16th century, it had spread across the Middle East, South India (Karnataka), Persia, Turkey, and northern Africa. Coffee then expanded throughout the Balkans, Italy, Europe, and Southeast Asia. With its ability to provide instant energy, coffee has quickly conquered areas of the world and hearts since then. A simple cup of coffee evolved over time to suit various palates and purposes. From frappuccinos and cold brews to espresso shots and even espresso martinis, you can now find coffee anywhere and everywhere and however, you like.
This is how gourmet coffee came into being. Gourmet coffee is made using 100% Arabica beans. These require a cool subtropical climate at a higher altitude to thrive and provide smooth, powerful, and aromatic brews that normal beans simply cannot match. It is a must-try for coffee enthusiasts since it is more luxurious than the typical coffee in terms of taste, production, and intensity. National Gourmet Coffee Day is a celebration of this caffeine celebrity, and we applaud it!
National Gourmet Coffee Day timeline
A European goatherd notices the energizing effect of the coffee plant on his goats.
The word ‘coffee’ enters the English language.
The first coffee plantation occurs in Brazil.
Alfred Peet opens a small coffee shop and introduces gourmet coffee to America.
National Gourmet Coffee Day FAQs
Which coffee is gourmet coffee?
Gourmet coffee is typically made using 100% Arabica coffee beans.
What is specialty coffee?
Specialty coffee is coffee that scores 80 points or above on a 100-point coffee evaluation scale.
What is the best coffee to water ratio?
A general guideline is called the ‘Golden Ratio’ — one to two tablespoons of ground coffee for every six ounces of water.
National Gourmet Coffee Day Activities
Drink gourmet coffee
This one’s a no-brainer. Enjoy a wonderful cup of gourmet coffee at your local coffee shop or a beautiful cafe.
Make gourmet coffee
Treat yourself this National Gourmet Coffee Day. Pick up some 100% Arabica beans instead of your regular coffee during this week’s grocery run.
Experiment with gourmet coffee
From ice creams to cakes, coffee is now used for way more than just beverages. Unleash your inner masterchef and try to create an innovative recipe using gourmet coffee.
5 Types Of Coffee Beans That You Must Try
Arabica
One of the most well-known and popular types, these are high-quality beans.
Robusta
The second-most popular kind, these have a hint of chocolate to them and are best served with milk and sugar.
Liberica
One of the most difficult types to come by, these are said to have smoky, floral and, fruity elements.
Excelsa
It’s a member of the Liberica family but it is quite distinct in taste.
Bourbon
Developed by French monks, this has sweet caramel undertones.
Why We Love National Gourmet Coffee Day
It educates us about new things
There are so many amazing things out there that we have yet to experience. Days like these help us learn about them and add them to our bucket list.
It encourages experimentation
Stepping outside of your comfort zone and sticking to your 'usual' can be difficult at times. National Gourmet Coffee Day is a day that encourages us to switch things up a bit.
It’s about coffee!
Who doesn’t enjoy a cup of coffee? Dedicating a day to celebrate this magical creation is nothing short of wonderful and well deserved.
National Gourmet Coffee Day dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2025 | January 18 | Saturday |
2026 | January 18 | Sunday |
2027 | January 18 | Monday |
2028 | January 18 | Tuesday |
2029 | January 18 | Thursday |