Frequently Asked Questions
If you have a question that isn't answered here, please feel free to e-mail us.

What's the difference between the different coffee roasts?
Our coffees are available in light, medium and dark roasts. As a simple rule of thumb, the darker the roast, the stronger the flavor. Lighter roasts generally have a mild flavor, and the darker roasts are usually more robust. Light to medium roasts are a good starting point, but don't be afraid to try something different....it may surprise you!

Which coffee grind do I need?
How coarse or fine the coffee is ground depends on how you will be brewing your coffee. Generally, the finer the grind the more quickly the coffee should be prepared., which is why coffee ground for espresso machine is much finer than coffee ground for a standard drip system. When you order your coffee from Sierra Pacific, you can choose from one of four grind options:

  Whole Bean: This choice is just as it says - perfect if you have your own coffee grinder at home.
French Press: A coarse grind, primarily used for a press pot or French press.
Auto Drip: Our medium grind generally used by drop pots or vac-pots (vacuum brewer). Medium grind is the most common grind found in supermarkert coffees, which is also the best choice for standard coffee machines.
Espresso: Fine grind, perfect for the quick extraction process of espresso machines.

What's the best way to store my coffee?
How you store your coffee is vital to maintaining the freshness and flavor of your coffee. It is important to keep coffee away from excessive air, moisture, heat and light to keep the fresh-roasted flavor as long as possible.

For the best results, store coffee in air-tight glass or ceramic containers and keep it in a convenient - but dark and cool - location. Don’t forget: cabinets near the oven or cabinets on an outside wall of your home that receive heat from a strong afternoon/summer sun are often too warm.

You should NOT put your daily supply of coffee in the freezer or refrigerator as the moisture will cause the coffee to deteriorate. If you buy coffee in bulk, you can store the extra in the freezer for up to a month. Just remember to divide the extra into smaller batches and wrap air-tight bags. Once you remove the coffee from the freezer, do not re-freeze. Simply transfer it to an air-tight container and store in a cool, dry place

You mention acidity, body and other terms in the coffee descriptions. What does all of that mean?
The following are general indicators of cup characteristics to help assist you in the selection of our fine coffees, and to further educate you on the wonderful qualities that all coffees possess:

  Acidity
 The sharp quality that points up flavor and brings snap and liveliness to your cup.
  Body The impression of weight and texture in the mouth: light, medium, heavy, full, thick & thin.
  Aroma The odor of the prepared coffee and overall cup character. Aroma provides hints of what is to come and further invites you to that first sip.
  Flavor The many tastes you will discover in your cup enhanced by the natural characteristics the bean possesses.
  Caffeine An alkaloid found in coffee and many other plants.