Answers to frequently asked questions about our coffees,
their origin, sustainability, and preparation.
General
What does "Chiraku" mean?
"Chiraku" describes the so-called "first crack" – the moment during coffee roasting when the bean pops open and unfolds its aroma. For us, this moment represents origin, transformation, and a new kind of pleasure.
What makes Chiraku special?
We work closely with selected partners and farms in India and place great value on transparency, quality, and long-term relationships. Every coffee tells its own story – from the region and the processing method to the taste in the cup.
Why does Chiraku focus on Indian coffee?
India is one of the most exciting coffee origins in the world. The unique climate, shade growing, and innovative processing methods result in complex and extraordinary flavor profiles.
Are your coffees sustainably grown?
Yes. Many of our partners use sustainable cultivation methods, biodiverse mixed cropping, and responsible resource management. Furthermore, we value long-term and fair collaboration.
What does Direct Trade mean at Chiraku?
We source our coffees as directly as possible from producers or long-standing local partners. This allows us to create more transparency, fair cooperation, and a closer connection between the origin and the end customer.
Why do you tell your partners' stories?
We want to show that behind every cup of coffee are real people, regions, and stories. In this way, we create more transparency and a direct connection between origin and enjoyment.
Coffee & Origin
What do the tasting notes in coffee mean?
Tasting notes describe natural flavors that can be perceived in coffee – for example, chocolate, berries, honey, or spices. These are determined by the variety, climate, altitude, and processing method.
Are your coffees generally mild or strong?
Our range includes both mild and fruity coffees as well as strong and chocolatey profiles. In each product description, you will find information regarding flavor, intensity, and recommended preparation methods.
What does coffee processing mean?
Processing describes how the coffee cherry is treated after harvest. Methods such as natural, honey, or washed significantly influence the later taste of the coffee.
What does "maceration" mean in coffee?
Maceration describes a controlled fermentation of the coffee cherries. This results in particularly intense and complex flavors with often fruity or wine-like notes.
Are your coffees 100% Arabica?
Many of our coffees consist of high-quality Arabica, but we also carry special Robusta varieties and select blends.
What does shade-grown mean?
In shade-grown cultivation, coffee plants grow under natural trees rather than in monocultures. This protects biodiversity and often results in slower-ripening, more aromatic beans.
What is the difference between Arabica and Robusta?
Arabica is generally more refined and fruity, while Robusta tastes stronger and more intense and contains more caffeine.
What does Single Origin mean?
Single Origin means that the coffee comes from a single region, farm, or cooperative.
Are there any limited edition coffees?
Yes. Some coffees are only available seasonally or in small quantities.
What does specialty coffee mean?
Specialty coffee stands for particularly high-grade coffee of high quality throughout the entire value chain – from cultivation to roasting. It is evaluated based on various criteria using a scoring system by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA). Generally, coffee is considered specialty coffee from 82 points onwards.
How does roasting influence the flavor?
Light roasts emphasize fruitiness and acidity, while darker roasts bring out more roasted notes, chocolate, and body.
Preparation
Which preparation do you recommend?
That depends on the specific coffee. In the product descriptions, you will find recommendations for portafilter machines, fully automatic machines, manual filters, moka pots, cold brew, Bialetti, or French press.
How should coffee be stored?
Best stored airtight, in a dry place, and protected from light. We recommend not storing coffee in the refrigerator.
Should coffee be bought as whole beans or ground?
For the best aroma, we recommend whole beans and grinding them fresh right before preparation.
How fresh is the coffee when it is shipped?
We roast in small batches and ship the coffee as fresh as possible, so that the aromas can develop optimally.
Why does the same coffee sometimes taste different?
Flavor is influenced by many factors – such as grind size, water quality, brewing method, or brewing temperature. In addition, coffee is a natural product, which means the flavor can change slightly from year to year.
Which coffee is suitable for fully automatic machines?
For fully automatic machines, balanced coffees with a medium roast and low acidity are particularly suitable. Our Café Cremas are especially well-suited.
Which coffee is suitable for espresso?
Espresso is particularly well-suited to finely balanced blends or bold single origins with chocolatey and nutty notes.
Shipping & Ordering
How long does shipping take?
The delivery time within Germany is generally 2–5 working days.
Do you also ship internationally?
International shipping is available depending on the country. Please feel free to contact us for specific inquiries.
How much are the shipping costs?
Shipping costs are displayed transparently at checkout and depend on the destination country and order quantity.
Can I track my order?
Yes. After shipment, you will receive tracking information via email.
What should I do if my order arrived damaged?
Please contact us with photos of the packaging and the product. We will find a solution quickly.
Do you offer coffee subscriptions?
We are working on offering flexible coffee subscriptions in the future.
Are there gift vouchers?
Yes, gift vouchers are perfect for coffee lovers and special occasions.
How do I find the right coffee for me?
Use the flavor profiles in the product descriptions as a guide or contact us directly – we are happy to help.
Can I also purchase your coffee for catering or offices?
Yes. Please feel free to contact us for individual B2B inquiries.
Transparency & Origin
Where do your coffees come from?
Our coffees primarily come from India – including regions such as the Araku Valley in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, or Kerala.
Do you work directly with farms?
We work directly with producers as well as with long-standing export and cooperation partners.
Why do you tell your partners' stories?
We want to show that behind every cup of coffee there are people, regions, and years of work.
Do you import your coffee yourself?
Yes. We import the coffee ourselves, so everything comes from a single source.
Sustainability & Recycling
Are your packages recyclable?
The coffee bags are fully recyclable and should be disposed of in the yellow recycling bin. You can find more on the topic of recycling here
How do I dispose of the shipping boxes correctly?
Shipping boxes belong in the paper recycling bin. If possible, remove tape and filling materials separately so that the materials can be recycled more effectively.
Can coffee grounds be reused?
Yes. Coffee grounds are excellent as a natural fertilizer for plants, as they contain nitrogen and minerals, among other things. Furthermore, they can be composted or used in the garden.
Which plants is coffee ground suitable for?
Plants such as hydrangeas, roses, tomatoes, or herbs particularly benefit from small amounts of coffee grounds in the soil.
Why does Chiraku focus on conscious consumption?
We believe that high-quality coffee should not only taste good, but also be produced and consumed responsibly. That is why we prioritize transparency, long-term partnerships, and a mindful approach to resources.