Once roasted coffee leaves the roaster, proper storage becomes the most important factor in preserving quality.

Whole-bean coffee maintains quality far longer than ground coffee. Grinding dramatically increases surface area and exposure to air, accelerating flavor loss. For this reason, whole-bean coffee is generally preferred.

To slow staling, coffee should be stored away from air, light, heat, and moisture. An airtight container kept in a cool, dark place works well. Refrigeration is unnecessary, and repeated temperature changes can introduce moisture.

When ordering whole-bean coffee, rotating through different coffees is a simple way to add variety to your routine. Ordering multiple origins and enjoying them over time allows you to explore different profiles without pushing any one coffee beyond a reasonable freshness window.