Should I choose a single origin or a blend?
If you’ve ever browsed specialty coffee online, chances are you’ve paused at the same question: Should I choose a single origin or a blend?
They sound technical. A bit intimidating. And if you’re not 100% sure what the difference is, it can feel safer to stick with what you already know.
The good news? There’s no “right” answer — just different experiences. This guide breaks down what single origin and blended coffees actually are, how they taste, and how to choose the one that suits you, your routine, and your brew method.
What Is Single Origin Coffee?
Single origin coffee comes from one place. That might be:
- a single country (e.g. Colombia),
- a specific region within that country,
- or even a single farm or cooperative.
Because it’s grown in one location, single origin coffee reflects the climate, soil, altitude, and processing methods of that place.
Why people choose single origin
People often reach for single origin coffee because:
- they’re curious about flavour
- they want to taste the character of a specific place
- they enjoy variety and discovery
Single origins are a bit like seasonal produce — they tell a story about where they’re from.
- How flavour profiles differ
- Single origin coffees often, but not always have:
brighter acidity - clearer, more distinct flavour notes
- a sense of “separation” between flavours
You might taste things like citrus, stone fruit, berries, florals, or chocolate very clearly.
The seasonal nature of single origin
Because coffee is harvested at different times around the world, single origins change throughout the year. That’s part of the appeal — but it also means your favourite might not be around forever.
Fresh crop in, old crop out. Always moving.
What Is a Coffee Blend?
A coffee blend is made by combining coffees from multiple origins to create a specific flavour profile.
Blends aren’t about hiding lower-quality coffee (a common myth). They exist to do something single origins can’t always do: deliver balance, consistency, reliability, and can also be a lot of fun!
Why blends exist
Blends are designed to:
- balance acidity, sweetness, and body
- perform consistently across brew methods
- taste great day after day
- Have fun!
By combining different coffees, roasters can dial in a flavour profile that works reliably.
Why coffee shops often use blends
Most coffee shops use blends for espresso because:
- they’re more forgiving
- they behave predictably on bar
- they hold up well in milk
A similar profile can be achieved all year round
When you’re pulling hundreds of shots a day, consistency matters.
Reliability across brew methods
Blends are usually:
- lower risk
- easier to brew well
- more adaptable if your grind or technique isn’t perfect
That makes them ideal for everyday coffee.
Flavour Differences: Single Origin vs Blend
Here’s a simple comparison to help frame the differences:
Acidity
- Single origin: Often brighter and more pronounced
- Blend: More rounded and controlled
Sweetness
- Single origin: Can be vivid and often intensely sweet
- Blend: Usually steady and approachable
Body
- Single origin: Lighter to medium
- Blend: Medium to full, with more weight
Complexity vs balance
- Single origin: Complexity, clarity, and distinct flavours
- Blend: Balance, harmony, and cohesion
Neither is better — they’re just different goals.
Which Is Better for Different Brew Methods?
This is where things get practical.
Espresso
Blends usually shine here. They’re built for pressure, consistency, and milk. Single origins can work as espresso, but they’re often more acidic and less forgiving.
Best choice: Blend (especially if you drink milk-based drinks)
Filter / Pour-over
Single origins really come into their own with filter brewing. This method highlights clarity and nuance, making it easier to taste origin characteristics.
Best choice: Single origin
French Press
Both can work, but blends tend to deliver more body and richness, which suits immersion brewing.
Best choice: Blend, unless you enjoy brighter cups
Home espresso machines
If you’re brewing espresso at home and still dialling things in, blends are usually easier and more consistent.
Best choice: Blend for reliability, single origin for experimentation
Which One Should You Choose?
Here’s a simple way to decide.
Choose a single origin if:
- you enjoy trying new flavours
- you drink mostly filter coffee
- you like seasonal variety
- you’re curious about where coffee comes from
Choose a blend if:
- you want consistency
- you drink espresso or milk-based drinks
- you’re brewing daily and want reliability
- you want something forgiving and dependable
Many people enjoy both — just at different times.
How We Choose Our Coffees at NewGround
At NewGround, we don’t see single origin and blends as competing ideas — they serve different purposes.
How we source:
We work with trusted importers and producers who prioritise quality, transparency, and long-term relationships.
What we prioritise:
- flavour clarity
- performance across brew methods
- consistency where it matters
- coffees that genuinely excite us
Why both exist in our range
Our blends are built to be:
- dependable
- balanced
- easy to brew well
Our single origins are chosen for:
- character
- seasonality
- flavour discovery
Different coffees, different moments.
Final Thoughts
There’s no wrong choice between single origin and blend.
It comes down to:
- how you brew
- what you drink
- and what kind of experience you want
The best way to learn? Try both. Taste side by side. Experiment. Let your preferences evolve.
Ready to explore?
Try both to find your favourite
Subscribe to receive a rotating Single Origin each month
Great coffee is about enjoyment, not rules.
Recommendations
Colombia is normally a great place to start as they have such a huge selection of different regions, varietals and processes.
We love East Africans in our roastery, and a natural Ethiopian is often the best place to begin your Single Origin journey, generally with a good body, jammy sweetness and floral highlights.
