Private Pour-Over Experience

For me, the pleasure of pour over begins the moment I decide to make it.

There is a sense of calm in having control over the entire process — choosing the coffee, opening the bag, grinding the beans, and noticing how the aroma becomes present almost immediately, long before the cup is ready.

When I make pour over for myself, I usually drink it in silence. I want to notice the flavors as the coffee changes, but I also want to enjoy everything around it: a clear surface, a beautiful cup, and a presentation that is simple and considered. What I see is part of the pleasure, just as much as what I taste.

The Private Pour-Over Experience came from my desire to share that feeling with other people.

I keep each session to no more than six guests because I want it to remain personal. For larger gatherings, multiple sessions may be arranged. During each session, we taste three carefully selected coffees, prepared and served one at a time. Each guest receives an individual tray with a coffee cup, sparkling water, and a card introducing each coffee.

As each coffee is prepared, I share its story and a few details about what makes it distinct. The conversation is intentionally informal. This is not a class, and I do not want to tell anyone what they are supposed to taste. I want to give each guest enough time and attention to discover the coffee for themselves.

Each selection is first tasted on its own. I then serve a piece of chocolate chosen for that particular coffee and invite guests to taste the cup again. The pairing can change the way its sweetness, acidity, and finish are perceived, revealing something that may not have been noticed in the first sip.

What I want guests to take away is a different understanding of what coffee can be.

It does not always have to be something we pick up quickly for the caffeine before moving on with the day. Coffee can be a moment alone with yourself — a moment of calm, attention, and pleasure, filled with the remarkable flavors a single cup can hold.