The Body in the Coffee

When you drink a cup of coffee, you don't just enjoy its aroma and flavor: you also perceive a unique sensation in your mouth that, without realizing it, defines a large part of your experience. This sensation is called "body," and understanding it will help you appreciate your coffee like a true connoisseur.

What is the body in coffee?

Body is the sensation of weight, density, or texture that coffee leaves in your mouth. It's what makes some cups feel light and smooth, while others are thicker, creamier, or even velvety.

It's not just about the flavor, but how the coffee "feels" when you drink it. And although it may seem subjective, your body has a lot to do with the chemistry of the coffee: natural oils, dissolved solids, and the way it was prepared.
Body types in coffee:

1. LIGHT BODY: It feels fluid and smooth in the mouth. This is common in coffees with fruity or floral notes and in brewing methods such as filter coffee.

2. MEDIUM BODY: It has a balanced texture, with a richer feel that's neither too light nor too heavy. This is typical of medium-roasted coffees.

3. HEAVY BODY: It has a rich, dense texture, as if it "sticks" to the mouth. It is usually found in coffees with a higher amount of natural oils, such as those from darker origins.

What does the body depend on coffee?

• Several factors influence the body you'll feel in your cup:
• Variety and origin: Some beans, such as Bourbon or Caturra varieties, tend to offer more body than others.
• Altitude and climate: Higher altitude coffees tend to develop greater complexity and can vary in body depending on the density of the bean.
• Post-harvest process: Natural and honey methods tend to give more body than washed methods, thanks to the retention of sugars and oils.
• Brewing Method: French press, espresso, or moka pot extract more oils and solids, giving greater body; while filter brewing methods tend to produce a lighter body.

How to train your palate to identify the body

If you want to learn how to perceive and describe the body of coffee, follow these steps:

1. Try two different coffees prepared with different methods, for example, a Chemex and a French press.

2. Focus on the sensation in your mouth rather than the taste. Ask yourself:

• Does it feel light like a tea or thick like a hot chocolate?
• Does the sensation last for a long time or does it disappear quickly?

3. Write down your impressions. With practice, your palate will begin to recognize patterns.

Don't just focus on its aroma or flavor: feel its weight, its texture, and how it fills your mouth. There you'll discover another level of enjoyment, because the body of the coffee also tells its story.