This book investigates the technical and sensory variables involved in the selection, roasting, and brewing of high-quality coffee beans. The staff at Ten Speed Press compiles industry-standard practices and expert insights to provide a comprehensive framework for understanding the lifecycle of coffee from origin to cup. The text emphasizes the chemical and physical changes that occur during processing, offering readers a systematic approach to optimizing flavor profiles.

Experts frequently cite this work as a reliable technical manual for home baristas and coffee enthusiasts. Readers often note the clarity of the instructional content and the practical utility of the brewing charts provided throughout the text.