☕ Why Baristas Keep Saying “Drink It While It’s Hot” — and They’re Absolutely Right
If you’ve ever ordered from an independent coffee shop, chances are the barista reminded you: “Coffee tastes best when it’s hot.” Seasoned coffee lovers even swear by the “15-second golden window” for espresso. But many people wonder — is this just a habit or superstition? What really happens when coffee cools down — does it just taste different, or does it actually go bad ? 🔥 The Science of Heat and Flavor The truth behind “drink it hot” lies in how temperature shapes flavor. When we taste coffee, aroma and flavor are inseparable — aroma comes from volatile compounds, and temperature directly determines how much of that aroma reaches our senses. At higher temperatures — especially around 61–62°C (about 142°F) , widely considered the optimal drinking temperature — the fruity, caramel, and floral notes in the beans are released most vividly. Take the “Mozart” beans from Costa Rica’s Musician Series, for example: right after brewing, the jasmine fragrance hits you first, fo...