About Eastern Brew & Our Coffee

Q1: What is Eastern Brew?
Eastern Brew is a premium specialty coffee brand from Manipur, India, dedicated to bringing you the finest Arabica coffee grown in the lush highlands of Northeast India. We focus on quality, sustainability, and empowering local coffee farmers while delivering exceptional taste in every cup.

Q2: Why is Manipur coffee special?
Manipur's high altitude (1,200-1,600 meters), cooler temperatures, and volcanic-rich soils create the perfect environment for growing premium Arabica coffee. Our beans develop distinctive characteristics including bright acidity, floral notes, complex flavor profiles, and a smooth, refined taste that stands out in international specialty coffee markets.

Q3: What makes Eastern Brew different from other coffee brands?
Eastern Brew is committed to:

• Quality: 100% specialty-grade Arabica beans from Manipur's premium growing regions

• Direct sourcing: We work directly with local farmers, ensuring fair prices and sustainable practices

• Artisanal roasting: Small-batch roasting to perfection to preserve the unique flavor characteristics

• Community impact: Every purchase supports farmer empowerment, training programs, and economic growth in Manipur

• Complete experience: Our Eastern Brew Kit includes everything you need for the perfect cup, including a French press and premium ceramic mug

Q4: Where can I buy Eastern Brew coffee?
You can purchase Eastern Brew products directly from our website at www.easternbrew.co.in. We offer ground coffee, whole beans, and our complete Eastern Brew Kit for the ultimate coffee experience.

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Coffee Types & Varieties

Q5: What is Arabica coffee, and why is it premium?
Arabica (Coffea arabica) is one of the finest coffee species, accounting for 60-70% of global specialty coffee production. It's premium because:

• Complex flavor: Sweet, nuanced taste with notes of chocolate, nuts, fruits, and flowers

• Higher quality beans: Larger, flatter oval-shaped beans with more oils that enhance flavor

• Lower caffeine: Contains 1.5% caffeine (compared to Robusta's 2.7%), making it gentler on the stomach

• Superior aroma: Contains 60% more lipids than Robusta, producing a richer, more aromatic cup

• Demanding cultivation: Requires specific growing conditions (high altitude, cooler temperatures), resulting in more careful farming practices

Manipur's Arabica is particularly prized for its distinctive acidity, floral notes, and complex flavor profile.

Q6: What is the difference between Arabica and Robusta coffee?

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Q7: What is the main difference between ground coffee and instant coffee?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Q8: Why does ground coffee taste better than instant coffee?
Ground coffee tastes superior for several reasons:

1. Bean Quality: Ground coffee is typically made from premium Arabica beans, while instant coffee uses lower-quality Robusta beans that are harsher and more bitter.

2. Essential Oils: Fresh ground coffee retains essential oils that create a smooth, rich, and aromatic cup. Instant coffee loses these oils during the dehydration process.

3. Flavor Extraction: Brewing ground coffee allows proper extraction of flavor compounds, developing the complex notes of chocolate, fruit, nuts, and floral characteristics. Instant coffee's pre-brewed nature destroys much of the original flavor.

4. Processing Impact: The high-heat drying and cooling of instant coffee reduces the "purity" of the product and destroys subtle flavor nuances.

5. Freshness: Freshly ground coffee preserves aromatic compounds, while instant coffee's shelf stability comes at the cost of flavor.

For specialty coffee like Eastern Brew, we always recommend ground coffee (or whole beans ground fresh) to experience the full complexity and beauty of Manipur Arabica.

Q9: When should I use instant coffee vs. ground coffee?

Choose ground coffee if you:

• Want the best taste and full flavor experience

• Have time for brewing (5-10 minutes)

• Own brewing equipment (French press, drip machine, etc.)

• Value quality and complexity over convenience

• Are willing to pay premium prices for premium experience

Choose instant coffee if you:

• Prioritize speed and convenience above all

• Don't have brewing equipment

• Need coffee in seconds

• Are budget-conscious and accept compromised flavor

• Travel frequently and need minimal equipment

Eastern Brew recommends ground coffee for the ultimate specialty coffee experience. Our Manipur Arabica's complex flavors are best appreciated when freshly brewed using methods like French press.

Q10: Is ground coffee healthier than instant coffee?
Both are coffee, but they differ in health impact:

Ground Coffee Advantages:

• Higher caffeine content (70-140 mg per cup) for better alertness

• Retains beneficial compounds like chlorogenic acid and polyphenols

• Lower acidity in specialty Arabica (gentler on sensitive stomachs)

• No additives or processing chemicals

• Richer in antioxidants due to minimal processing

Instant Coffee:

• Made from lower-quality beans with more bitterness

• Often contains more processing chemicals

• Higher acidity, which can cause stomach sensitivity

• Shorter shelf life concerns in some cases

For health-conscious coffee lovers, premium ground Arabica like Eastern Brew is the better choice, offering maximum benefits with superior taste.

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Brewing, Preparation & Storage

Q11: How do I brew ground coffee in a French press?

The French press is an excellent method to experience the full richness of Eastern Brew coffee. Here's the step-by-step guide:

What You Need:

• French Press (600 ml or 1000 ml)

• 20g of Eastern Brew ground coffee (approximately 3 tablespoons)

• 240 ml water (or scale up proportionally)

• Kettle for boiling water

• Spoon for stirring

• Timer

Brewing Steps:

1. Preheat the French Press: Pour hot water into the empty press to warm it, then discard. This helps maintain consistent temperature during brewing.

2. Measure Coffee: Add 20g of ground coffee to the French press. (Use a 1:12 ratio: 20g coffee to 240ml water)

3. Bloom (30 seconds):

   • Pour just enough hot water (about 40ml) to saturate the grounds

   • You'll see bubbling as CO₂ escapes—this is blooming

   • Stir gently 10 times with a spoon

4. Add Remaining Water: Pour the remaining water (200ml) slowly and steadily over the grounds.

5. Steep (4 minutes):

   • Place the lid on top (don't plunge yet)

   • Let the coffee steep for exactly 4 minutes

   • For stronger coffee, brew up to 5 minutes; for lighter, reduce to 3.5 minutes

6. Check Grounds: After 4 minutes, use a spoon to gently stir. This helps grounds settle.

7. Plunge Slowly (1 minute):

   • Gently press the plunger down over 60 seconds

   • Don't press hard or hurriedly—slow pressing gives the best flavor

   • If it's too hard to press, your grind is too fine; if it sinks too fast, it's too coarse

8. Serve Immediately: Pour into your cup right away. Leaving the coffee in the press causes over-extraction and bitterness.

Pro Tips:

• Use water that's about 94°C (just off boiling) for optimal extraction

• A medium grind is ideal for French press

• Always use fresh, filtered water

• Serve immediately for the best flavor

Q12: What is the ideal coffee-to-water ratio for brewing?
The golden standard for brewing coffee is the 1:15 ratio, meaning:

• 1 part coffee to 15 parts water

• Example: 20g coffee + 300ml water

• Or: 1 tablespoon coffee + 15 tablespoons water (if not measuring by weight)

Adjusting to Your Taste:

• For stronger coffee: Use 1:12 ratio (20g coffee + 240ml water)

• For lighter coffee: Use 1:18 ratio (20g coffee + 360ml water)

• For the Eastern Brew Kit's 600ml press: Use 40g coffee + 600ml water

• For the Eastern Brew Kit's 1000ml press: Use 65g coffee + 1000ml water

The ratio affects extraction, caffeine content, and flavor intensity. Experiment to find your perfect brew!

Q13: How should I store ground coffee to keep it fresh?

Storage Guidelines:

Ground coffee stays fresh longest when protected from:

• Air (causes oxidation)

• Light (degrades flavor compounds)

• Moisture/Humidity (causes flavor loss and potential mold)

• Heat (breaks down essential oils)

Best Storage Method:

• Container: Use an airtight, opaque container (stainless steel or UV-blocking glass with tight seals)

• Location: Cool, dry pantry or cabinet away from sunlight, heat, and stove

• Temperature: 68-77°F (20-25°C) is ideal

• Avoid: Refrigerator, freezer (creates condensation), windowsills, countertops near heat

Shelf Life:

• Unopened: 3-5 months past the roast date when stored cool and dry

• After Opening: 1-2 weeks for peak freshness (best flavor in first week)

• In Freezer (sealed): 6-12 months (though peak flavor is within 3 months)

Storage Tips:

• Buy ground coffee in small quantities for maximum freshness

• Look for a roast date on the package; fresher roasts taste better

• Use airtight containers with tight silicone seals

• Divide large quantities into single-use portions to minimize air exposure

• Keep the container away from spices, garlic, and strong odors (coffee absorbs aromas)

• Label containers with the roast date to track freshness

• Consume within 1 week of opening for best taste and aroma

Why Fresh Matters:
Ground coffee loses flavor and aroma compounds quickly. After just one week, noticeable quality decline begins. This is why we recommend buying smaller quantities of Eastern Brew more frequently rather than stockpiling large amounts.

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Health Benefits & Nutrition

Q14: What are the health benefits of coffee?
Quality coffee like Eastern Brew offers numerous health benefits:

1. Antioxidant-Rich: Coffee contains powerful antioxidants like chlorogenic acid and polyphenols that protect cells from damage.

2. Enhanced Alertness & Focus: Caffeine (70-140 mg per cup in ground coffee) improves mental clarity, concentration, and reduces fatigue.

3. Boosts Metabolism: May increase fat-burning and improve metabolic rate, supporting weight management.

4. Heart Health: Regular moderate coffee consumption is associated with better cardiovascular health and reduced risk of certain heart conditions.

5. Brain Protection: May reduce risk of neurological conditions like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease.

6. Liver Health: Associated with improved liver function and reduced risk of liver disease.

7. Mood Enhancement: Caffeine boosts dopamine, improving mood and reducing depression risk.

8. Physical Performance: Caffeine enhances endurance and reduces perceived effort during exercise.

9. Reduced Risk of Type 2 Diabetes: Regular coffee consumption is linked to improved insulin sensitivity.

10. Anti-Inflammatory: Contains compounds that may reduce inflammation in the body.

Important Note:
These benefits are maximized with quality specialty coffee like Eastern Brew and moderate consumption (3-4 cups daily). Excessive consumption or poor-quality coffee may have negative effects.

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Eastern Brew Products & Purchasing

Q15: What's included in the Eastern Brew Kit?
The Eastern Brew Kit provides everything for the ultimate specialty coffee experience:

1. Premium Ground Coffee: Freshly roasted Manipur Arabica (available in different quantities)

2. French Press: Either 600ml or 1000ml depending on your kit size, perfect for brewing Eastern Brew

3. Premium Ceramic Mug: A beautiful 24-carat gold ceramic mug for serving your coffee with style

4. Brewing Guide: Instructions for perfect brewing every time

5. Coffee Care Tips: Storage and freshness guidelines

The kit is designed for coffee enthusiasts who want to experience specialty coffee properly without needing to purchase equipment separately.

Q16: Can I return or exchange Eastern Brew products?
For details on our return and exchange policy, please:

• Visit our website: www.easternbrew.co.in

• Contact our customer service team

• Check the terms and conditions at checkout

We stand behind our products and want you to be completely satisfied with your Eastern Brew experience.

Q17: Do you offer subscriptions for regular coffee delivery?
For subscription and recurring delivery options, please visit www.easternbrew.co.in or contact our customer service team for the latest offerings.

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Eastern Brew's Social & Economic Impact

Q18: How does buying Eastern Brew help grow Manipur's coffee industry?
Every Eastern Brew purchase contributes to:

1. Economic Growth: Revenue directly benefits farming families and rural communities in Manipur.

2. Industry Expansion: Increased demand encourages more farmers to plant and invest in coffee cultivation.

3. Job Creation: Coffee farming, processing, packaging, and distribution create diverse employment opportunities.

4. Skills Development: More training programs and technical support as the industry grows.

5. Infrastructure: Growth supports development of processing facilities, storage, and distribution networks in Manipur.

6. International Recognition: Spotlight on Manipur coffee in global markets increases the region's reputation and prestige.

7. Youth Engagement: Young people see coffee farming as a viable, profitable career, reversing rural migration.

8. Agricultural Diversification: Coffee provides farmers with an alternative to traditional crops, improving financial stability.

9. Regional Development: Economic growth from coffee benefits local infrastructure, education, and services.

10. Pride and Heritage: Building a world-class coffee industry creates regional pride and honors Manipur's agricultural heritage.

Q19: What is Eastern Brew's commitment to sustainability?
Eastern Brew operates on principles of environmental and social responsibility:

• Ethical Sourcing: Direct relationships with farmers ensure fair trade practices

• Biodiversity: Support for shade-growing coffee in forest ecosystems

• Quality Over Quantity: Focus on premium specialty coffee reduces pressure for over-production

• Farmer Training: Education in sustainable practices that protect soil, water, and biodiversity

• Traceability: Digital systems tracking coffee from farm to cup, proving ethical sourcing

• Community Investment: Profits support education, health, and infrastructure in coffee-growing communities

• Environmental Protection: Commitment to practices that preserve Manipur's natural beauty and resources

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General Questions

Q20: Is Eastern Brew coffee suitable for all brewing methods?
Eastern Brew ground coffee is optimized for French press, but can be used with other methods:

Recommended (Excellent Results):

• French press (coarse grind)

• Pour-over/Drip (medium grind)

• Moka pot (medium-fine grind)

• Cold brew (coarse grind, 12-24 hour steep)

Possible (Good Results with Adjustment):

• AeroPress (medium grind)

• Chemex (medium grind)

• V60 (medium grind)

Not Recommended:

• Espresso machines (require fine grind and specific pressure)

• Turkish/Ibrik (requires extremely fine powder consistency)

For best results with other brewing methods, we recommend:

1. Ordering Eastern Brew whole beans instead of pre-ground

2. Grinding to the appropriate size for your specific brewing method

3. Following brewing guides specific to your equipment

Q21: Does Eastern Brew offer whole bean coffee?
Yes! Visit www.easternbrew.co.in to check current availability of:

• Whole bean Eastern Brew Arabica

• Various roast levels (light, medium, dark)

• Specialty lots and seasonal offerings

Whole beans stay fresher longer and allow you to grind specifically for your brewing method.

Q22: Can I gift Eastern Brew coffee?
Absolutely! Eastern Brew makes an excellent gift for coffee lovers. Visit our website to check for:

• Gift packaging options

• Custom gift messages

• Gift sets and bundle options

• Seasonal gift offerings

The Eastern Brew Kit is particularly popular as a premium gift for coffee enthusiasts.

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Contact & Support

Q23: How do I contact Eastern Brew customer service?
For customer support:

• Website: www.easternbrew.co.in

• Email: care@easternbrew.co.in

• Phone: +91 9774546278

• Social Media: Follow Eastern Brew on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn for updates and community engagement

Q24: What if I have a question not answered in these FAQs?
Our customer service team is here to help! Reach out through any of the contact methods above, and we'll be happy to answer your questions about Eastern Brew coffee, Manipur, brewing methods, or anything else related to specialty coffee.