Van Houtte

We asked our favourite pastry chef and chocolatier – and our very own ambassador – Wendy Boys what she loves about coffee… and we couldn’t agree more. Here’s what she shared with us!

I love coffee! I love love love coffee. The main reason that I love coffee is that it stimulates all five of my senses. The appeal is invigorating and the morning ritual of making a fresh cup of coffee is the reason I get out of bed. Too many people have made the mistake of treating coffee like a quick fix, but to truly enjoy coffee, much like a great glass of wine or a rich piece of chocolate, itʼs important to take the time to savour the experience!

Sound – The sound of grinding the beans and scooping them into my French press is music to my ears. Even my dog knows a morning walk is just around the corner when she hears the beans grinding.

Smell – Itʼs no secret that the aroma of freshly ground beans is intoxicating, and I relish how that aroma intensifies when the ground beans are mixed with freshly boiled water. The anticipation of waiting for the coffee to brew before plunging the grounds to the bottom, watching anxiously as the flavour develops.

Sight – I watch with anticipation while the coffee brews in the press. I enjoy seeing the flavour develop before and after plunging the grounds to the bottom of the press.

Touch – I take comfort in feeling a warm cup of coffee in my hands. It relaxes me, especially before a big day at the chocolate factory.

Taste! Of course the best part. I am passionate about the flavour of coffee. As a chocolatier and pastry chef, the flavour notes in different coffees are the perfect partner to the confections I create. My favourite way to indulge in the taste of coffee is to savour a rich espresso, in a Bold & Woodsy  blend, with steamed milk or a fresh cup of a Velvety & Fruity  blend “straight up”.

I love that all five of my senses are stimulated by this delicious beverage. And of course I love that it perks me up and gets me ready for my day.