Everything you need to know about caffeine: The Café Castelo barista guide

At Café Castelo, our passion for coffee goes beyond simply roasting; we are committed to providing a deep understanding of every aspect of your cup of coffee. Today, we're exploring caffeine in detail, a key component that influences not only the taste, but also the effect of your coffee on your body and mind.

What is caffeine?

Caffeine is a natural compound found in several plants, notably Arabica and Robusta coffee beans. This stimulant can improve alertness and concentration, making coffee a popular drink to start the day.

Caffeine: Arabica vs. Robusta

The caffeine content varies significantly between the two main varieties of coffee:

• Arabica : Generally, Arabica beans contain about 0.8% to 1.8% caffeine by dry weight.
• Robusta : Robusta beans can contain up to 2.2% to 2.7% caffeine, almost double the content of Arabica beans.

This difference explains why Robusta often has a stronger, more bitter taste, a characteristic appreciated in some cultures but less so in others. At Café Castelo, we favor Arabica for its richer, smoother aromatic profile, ideal for those who enjoy a delicate yet invigorating coffee.

The impact of the brewing system on caffeine

The brewing method has a significant impact on the amount of caffeine extracted, and few people mention it, but it's a game-changer:

• Espresso : Although a single shot of espresso contains less caffeine by volume than a cup of filter coffee (approximately 30-50 mg per shot), the caffeine concentration is higher. To give a more concrete example, one could compare it to a shot of alcohol.
• Filter coffee : A typical cup of filter coffee usually contains between 80 and 100 mg of caffeine, making this method ideal for a prolonged release of the stimulating effect.
• Gentle methods : Methods like the French Press or Aeropress can also vary in caffeine content, often influenced by brewing time and water temperature. The longer your brew, the higher your caffeine level.

Clarification regarding intensity and caffeine

It is important to note that the intensity of the taste of coffee is not directly related to its caffeine content, quite the contrary when it comes to Arabica coffee. A coffee can have a very full-bodied aromatic profile without necessarily being more caffeinated. The perception of a "strong" coffee is often more a matter of roasting and preparation choices than the actual amount of caffeine.

Caffeine is a fascinating part of the coffee experience. By choosing premium Arabica beans from Café Castelo, you'll enjoy not only a cup of coffee with a moderate caffeine content but also an exceptional flavor profile. Whether you prefer your coffee strong in the morning or mild in the afternoon, understanding caffeine will help you get the most out of every sip.