The Introduction to Coffee course is ideal for anyone who is new to specialty coffee. It charts coffee's journey from its origins in Ethiopia to the major commodity that it is today. This course gives a general overview of the specialty coffee supply chain and explores topics such as history and cultivation, variables that affect coffee quality, basics of sensory analysis, fundamentals of roasting, factors of coffee freshness, and principles of brewing. In addition, learners will discuss the importance of water quality, cleanliness and maintenance. This interactive course also includes a cupping, an industry-specific process for evaluating coffee through a sensory experience. There is an online written exam administered upon the completion of the course DURATION - Training: 4 hours (from 10.00 to 14.00) PARTICIPANTS - 3 to 10 EXAM - Written online (optional) INCLUDED - Coffee, use of all equipment and facilities LANGUAGE - English All prices are incl. VAT. When given notice of a cancellation 2 weeks prior to the training, costs will be refunded. \*Important: If you would like to opt for the SCA certificate and sit the online written exam, there is a service fee of €25 that is paid directly to the Specialty Coffee Association. This can be paid when registering with SCA via their website. After purchasing the course you will receive a confirmation email with all the necessary information! For questions contact us via academy@stookerspecialtycoffee.com or +31(0)20 737 17 14 Would you like to come with a group? Are the dates advertised are not suitable for you? Please email academy@stookerspecialtycoffee.com

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Introduction to Coffee course?
Four hours, from 10:00 to 14:00. The first part covers theory (origin, processing, roasting basics), followed by a hands-on cupping session and brewing exercises.

What is a cupping?
Cupping is how coffee professionals taste and evaluate coffee. You smell and slurp coffees from different origins side by side, scoring them on aroma, flavor, body, and aftertaste. It trains your palate and helps you understand why coffees taste so different from each other.

Do I need any prior coffee knowledge?
Not at all. This course is designed for complete beginners. Whether you just started working in coffee or you're simply curious about what makes specialty coffee special, this is the right starting point.

Do I receive an SCA certificate?
There is an optional online written exam after the course. If you pass, you receive the official SCA Introduction to Coffee certificate. The exam fee (€25) is paid separately to the SCA.

Is this course a good preparation for the Barista Foundation?
Yes. The SCA recommends taking Introduction to Coffee before Barista Foundation. It gives you the theoretical background that makes the hands-on Foundation course much easier to follow. That said, it's not mandatory.

What is included?
Coffee, all course materials, and use of professional equipment. Lunch is not included as the course finishes at 14:00.

Related courses at Stooker Coffee Academy

After this introduction, take the next step with SCA Barista Foundation to build hands-on barista skills. Or explore our Home Barista Workshop if you want to brew better coffee at home.