☕ Single Origin vs. Blends: What’s the Difference?

If you’ve ever browsed through a specialty coffee shelf (or our website!), there's a good chance you’ve come across the terms single origin and blend. But what exactly do they mean—and how do you know which one is right for your morning brew? Let’s break it down.

🌍 What is Single Origin Coffee?

Single origin coffee comes from one specific location—often a single farm, region, or even a specific lot within a farm. Think of it like wine from a particular vineyard. Because it’s grown in a defined place, single origin coffee captures the unique flavors of that region.

Flavor Profile:
Single origin coffees tend to have distinct, vibrant, and sometimes adventurous flavors—like floral Ethiopian beans or chocolatey Guatemalan ones. They're great for people who love exploring how soil, climate, and altitude affect taste.

Best For:

• Coffee drinkers who love variety and tasting notes

• Brewing methods that highlight flavor nuances (like pour-over or Chemex)

• Curious sippers who treat coffee like a sensory experience

🤝 What is a Coffee Blend?

Blends combine beans from multiple origins to create a well-balanced, consistent cup. Think of it like a curated playlist of your favorite songs, each origin adding a unique note.

Roasters mix different beans to achieve specific flavor goals—smoothness, richness, balance, or even a signature house flavor.

Flavor Profile:
Blends are usually smooth, reliable, and versatile. They’re crafted to taste great with or without milk, and to hold up across brew methods.

Best For:

• Everyday drinkers who want a dependable cup

• Espresso and milk-based drinks (like lattes or cappuccinos)

• House blends or go-to morning brews

🆚 Which One Should You Choose?

Go for single origin if you want:

• To explore specific regions and flavors

• Something seasonal or unique

• A more nuanced, often brighter cup

Go for a blend if you want:

• A consistent taste, no surprises

• A crowd-pleaser or daily driver

• A strong base for espresso or lattes

☕ Our Take

At Miraflores Coffee, we love both. Our blends are designed to deliver comfort and balance, while our rotating single origins let you taste the world one cup at a time.

No matter your choice, you’re sipping quality, craft, and care.

Curious to try both?
Check out our Africano Espresso and Peru Single Origin to experience the difference for yourself!