Grinding
It cannot be emphasized enough that grinding coffee immediately before brewing makes a huge difference in the freshness of the coffee. The effective life of ground coffee is only a day or two after grinding. Oxygen and moisture in the air deteriorates ground coffee as it oxidizes and loses its flavor. Expect to taste stale coffee with less flavor.
Grinders
Burr Grinders are a little more expensive than blade grinders but typically do a much better job. Blade grinders slash the coffee beans until the particles get smaller and smaller. You end up with grounds that are powder on the outside edge and larger particles in the center of the blade. Burr grinders process the beans once through, therefore, giving you a consistent size grind with less heat build-up.
Proper brewing is as important as roasting in order to extract the proper flavors of the coffee bean.
1. Since coffee is about 99% water, a lot depends on how good your water tastes. If needed, filter your water before brewing.
2. The coffee to water ratio mostly depends on your taste. A rule of thumb is to use 1 to 2 Tablespoons of ground coffee to each 6 oz cup of water. Again, if you prefer a stronger tasting cup, add more coffee.
3. The grind is very important. To prevent the over or under extraction of flavor from the beans, you must match the right particle size (grind) with the right brewing time. In general, the longer brewing times require larger particle size and shorter brewing times should be paired with smaller particle size. Example: French presses will require a course grind. Drip coffee makers require a medium grind and Espresso machines will require a fine grind.
4. Maintain your brewing equipment. Keep it de-scaled and clean. Always use fresh cold water and never leave the container on a heated element. Transfer your coffee to a thermal pot after brewing to keep it tasting fresh.
Storage
Whole bean coffee is usually good for 10 - 14 days if stored properly. Ground coffee doesn't stay fresh for this long due to the fact that it has more surface area exposed to oxygen due to its small particle size.
You should store your coffee in an airtight container in a cool, dry location. Never store coffee in the refrigerator as this will tend to dry it out and it may even pick up odors from other foods stored there.
If you are not going to use your beans immediately, you can put them in your freezer. It is best to place them in portion size containers so you only have to thaw what you will use each time you make coffee.
