What Is a Coffee Flight?

a coffee flight of 3 different cold coffees on tap at Fairgrounds Coffee in Dallas

QUESTION: What is a coffee flight? I saw it mentioned on the sign outside a cute coffee shop I walked past, but I don’t know what it means. — Eva T.

ANSWER: Coffee flights are meant to take you beyond your morning coffee. Flights are often special events designed for the coffee lover to try a variety of new coffees so they can find their favorites. A coffee flight consists of miniature servings of at least three different great coffee drinks perhaps from different coffee roasters. Depending on the coffee house, some flights have preset options, while others allow you to select your own.

A coffee flight is a great opportunity for you to allow a barista to walk you through several different flavor combinations. You can have coffee dates with a friend who can’t decide what they like or is simply down to experience a variety of flavors with you. With these tasting flights you can taste different coffees side-by-side. Another of the many different coffee flights may introduce you to different types of drip or espresso coffee, or your flight may consist of the same coffee prepared in a few different ways (French press, Chemex, and drip, for example).

The flight setup is borrowed from the world of wine tasting. This trend is also becoming popular with craft beer tastings where you can try a variety of different beers. Much like how a flight at a wine bar lets you get to know several different flavors under the watchful eye of a sommelier, coffee flights give you a sample of a variety of coffees, letting you get to know the multitude of flavors or preparation methods. And just like a sommelier will introduce you to the complex, nuanced flavors in each glass of wine, your barista will talk you through the flavors and aromas that unfold as you drink your coffee flight.

Coffee flights can come in various forms, allowing coffee enthusiasts to explore and compare different aspects of coffee. One common variation is based on the roast profile, where the flight features a range of light, medium, and dark roasted coffees. This type of flight allows tasters to experience how the roast level impacts flavor, body, and acidity.

Another popular variation focuses on coffee origins, offering a selection of beans from different countries or regions. This allows tasters to compare the unique flavor profiles, characteristics, and terroir of each origin. Other flights might showcase different brewing methods, such as French press, Chemex, and pour-over, or focus on specific types of coffee, like cold brew, espresso, or single-origin. These variations provide coffee lovers with opportunities to broaden their palates and deepen their understanding of coffee.

And flights aren’t just for beginners. More experienced coffee drinkers will find that they’re better able to experience the individual flavor notes of the coffee beans when they taste several different ones side by side. You may find that the fruity or nutty flavors you read about on coffee labels are easier to perceive when your coffee is served in a flight.

Next time you’re at the coffee shop, try a flight of coffee so you can get to know a wider range of what the coffee bar has to offer. You’ll be amazed at how many new flavors you can perceive when the various coffees are served side by side. Take the leap and go beyond your morning cup of joe!

Tips to Take Full Advantage of a Coffee Flight Tasting

Tasting order: Start with the lightest roast or mildest flavor and gradually progress to the darker roasts or more intense flavors. This helps you better appreciate the nuances in each coffee without overwhelming your palate.

Sip slowly: Take small sips of each coffee and let it linger in your mouth for a few seconds. This allows you to fully experience the flavors, textures, and aromas of the coffee.

Use a palate cleanser: In between tasting different coffees, it’s helpful to cleanse your palate with a neutral-tasting food or drink, such as water or a plain cracker. This will help ensure that the flavors of one coffee don’t interfere with your perception of the next.

Take notes: Jot down your impressions of each coffee as you taste them, including aspects like aroma, flavor, acidity, body, and aftertaste. This can help you remember your preferences and discover new favorites.

Engage your senses: When tasting each coffee, pay attention to not only the taste but also the aroma, mouthfeel, and appearance. This will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the coffee’s characteristics.

Discuss with others: If you’re enjoying a coffee flight with friends or fellow coffee enthusiasts, share your thoughts and impressions of each coffee. This can lead to interesting conversations and help you learn from each other’s perspectives.

Ask the barista for guidance: If you’re unsure about any aspect of the coffee flight, don’t hesitate to ask the barista. They can provide helpful information about the coffees, brewing methods, or flavor profiles and can guide you through the tasting experience.

Keep an open mind: Be willing to explore new flavors and brewing methods, even if they fall outside your usual preferences. The purpose of a coffee flight is to broaden your palate and discover new favorites, so embrace the opportunity to try something different.