This is a very common saying. In fact, I’ve used it myself on numerous occasions. But that was before I’d come to appreciate the Asian view on coffee culture—one that is far more liberal. In the East, people take a less pretentious approach than their western counterparts, and judgement is splendidly lacking.
Does bad coffee truly exist? Today, I no longer think so. Just as the human population can’t be neatly divided into righteous and wicked subgroups, all coffee is unique, and there doesn’t exist a brew that’s devoid of some merit. In my opinion, life is dazzlingly colorful. There’s no place for black and (creamy) white assessments.
Perhaps your personal preference is for sweeter, fruitier coffee, but that doesn’t mean that bitter coffee is bad. If you decide to patronize an establishment that serves a more burnt brew, it was your decision to go there, and you needn’t remark on their so-called inferiority. Simply look for the positives. (After all, there’s certainly a time and place for rocket fuel!) The same applies when someone makes you a coffee. To criticize their brewing skills would be ludicrous. And besides, just because it’s not your cup of joe, that doesn’t mean that I (or another) wouldn’t love it. Beauty is in the taste bud of the sampler, so let’s stay mellow!
If I don’t like a particular coffee, I will never again use the word “bad.” Diplomacy and specificity are key. There’s nothing wrong with stating one’s fondness for something or lack thereof, but why not go into detail in a constructive manner? (“I prefer a sweeter, stronger-bodied beverage.”) If a person isn’t too proud, I’ll even offer advice on occasion.
The point is: you’re not God, so don’t judge!
What kind of coffee do I think is tasty?
I strive to offer coffee with an unparalleled variety of flavours. If you focus closely on your coffee drink, you’ll appreciate countless fruits, herbs, and tea flavours. This may include bitter, spicy, acidic and/or spicy components. Properly brewed filter coffee offers a perfect balance of flavours combined with an amazing aroma, texture, and mouthfeel.