I am not really a coffee junkie but do love drinking it. Until this trip, my knowledge of coffee was extremely basic – pretty much next to nil but I had always been wanting to know more. So I was excited when I was asked to go on a trip to Harrogate, and visit the home of Taylors of Harrogate
After lunch, we were taught about the company and where all the coffee varieties are sourced from, around the world. I was so happy to learn that they strongly support trading fairly and have a strong relationship with farmers. I only buy Fairtrade coffee and sugar as I feel that it is wrong how farmers are exploited by having to work like a slave for very little in return. It is a question of survival for many. Taylors of Harrogate supports Fairtrade and work to the Ethical Trading Initiative Base Code.
We spent some time tasting many different varieties of coffee, and Emily the coffee maestro showed us exactly how to sample each one. It involved a great deal of slurping and she said spitting was optional. She spat each time but I don’t think anyone else was brave enough to even attempt this.
Later we were taken to the greenhouse to see the coffee plants in the flesh. I had no idea you could grow them in a greenhouse, in the UK but it seems you can.
Going on a tour of the factory was so much fun. We had to wear a special protective cap over our hair and a protective coat before entering the enormous space full of machines, where we watched the entire production line from start to finish. It was my very first ever experience of being inside a factory, and a fun one it was too. I got an insight on how much work goes on behind the scenes in order to bring coffee to our kitchen, and makes you really respect what you drink.
I am very grateful to Taylors of Harrogate for their kindness and hospitality. The entire trip was paid for by the company, and I am delighted to say that the entire team from the brand made us all feel very welcome.
SLIDESHOW AND GALLERY:
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And a little video I made:
