There are two ways to buy coffee beans: whole and ground. Figuring out which one suits you best will ensure the most satisfying drinking experience. Here's a closer look at the differences between the two styles. 

Whole Coffee Beans

After the beans are harvested, they're roasted and packaged, ready to be ground as needed. Leaving them at this point helps stop the aging process, which allows them to maintain a strong, fresh flavor. The taste is also easier to adjust to personal preference. For instance, if you find the brew too bitter for your palate, grind larger grounds when preparing a cup. Alternatively, a sour finish is fixed with a finer ground. 

Whole coffee beans can also be ground to match any preparation style or machine. Different brewing methods require specific grind sizes to ensure the right balance of flavor. For example, a French press needs course grounds, while espresso requires extra fine. You can grind the beans in small batches to suit the style of the day. 

Ground Coffee Beans

Crushed up after roasting, ground beans are typically processed to a medium-course finish, the standard requirement for regular drip coffee pots. If you're a more traditional coffee drinker, then it's convenient. Also, uniform sizing results in consistent flavoring, making preparation easy if you find a brew you like. 

Once they're ground, a chemical process begins, causing the beans to lose their flavor, so there's a risk of them becoming stale. However, if vacuum-sealed, flavor loss is dramatically reduced. Additionally, if you drink multiple cups of coffee daily, you're unlikely to notice too much of a difference. 

Whether whole or ground, decaf or full-caffeine, find the right beans for your taste at Maui Coffee Roasters in Kahului, HI. The coffee shop and roastery offers a wide selection of local and international brews. Browse their tasty offerings online, and get your questions answered at (808) 877-2877.