Everyone loves coffee, that rich invigorating aroma that wafts up from a cup tickles the nose and sharpens the senses. As a pick-me-up in the morning, a jolt of energy in the afternoon, or as a palate cleanser after a hearty meal, coffee is an essential part of our daily life.
Last September 14 to 16, SM City Davao held their “Coffee Break Time” coffee festival. The three day event at the mall’s Event Center showcased everything about the ubiquitous brew together with treats that pair well with it.
After simple opening ceremonies, a coffee cupping lesson followed where licensed Q graders, trained professionals adept in smelling and tasting the diverse notes of coffee, demystified the complexities of tasting and appreciating coffee.
“Coffee cupping is a scientific procedure that involves in meticulous sniffing and slurping of coffee in the attempt of measuring its taste aspects, specifically the coffee’s body, sweetness, acidity, flavor, and aftertaste,” said Manny Quisol, the Business Development Service Coordinator of the Davao Coffee Council.
The procedure allows cuppers, those participating in coffee cupping, to appreciate the qualities of different coffee beans as well as appreciate its origins and processing procedures. I was a part of the writers and bloggers present who experienced the coffee cupping event and it gave me a newfound appreciation of the brew which we all already love.
“Coffee beans embody telltale flavors from its region of orgin, based on the condition of the soil, weather and geographic location. These aspects greatly affect the taste of the beans,” added Joefel Manlod of Purge Coffee Roasters who is also a licensed Q grader and international barista champion.
Coffee culture in Durianburg has indeed come a long way. If you time travel back to the early 90’s, specialty coffee places were totally unheard of, but today almost every corner of the city is sure to have a place that serves good quality coffee.
The Coffee Festival at SM City Davao was participated by JCo Donuts and Coffee, Sweets of Tirzah, Buko de Davao at Kape, Johann Coffee Truck, Giardino Gelato, Gabriel’s Homemade Pastries, Yolks Flower Cafe, HK Bakery & Tea, Calle Verde, Bos Coffee, Takoen, Meridian Coffee Specialty, French Baker, Sweet & Savoury, Mindanao Cake Deco Society, and the Davao Coffee Council.
