All Things Coffee with The Aviary

The Rise of Functional Coffees: Health Benefits in Your Coffee
Functional coffee is one of the biggest wellness trends in the coffee world right now—and for good reason. Blending quality coffee with health-boosting ingredients like mushrooms, collagen, or adaptogens, it offers all the flavour of your morning brew with added benefits for focus, energy, and immunity. This post explores what functional coffee is, why it’s gaining popularity, and whether it’s worth adding to your daily routine.

Brewing Trouble: How Climate Change is Driving Up Coffee Prices and Impacting Colombia's Coffee Industry
Climate change is reshaping the coffee industry, driving up prices and threatening the livelihoods of farmers worldwide. In Colombia, rising temperatures, unpredictable weather, and increased pests have led to declining yields, shifting growing regions, and economic uncertainty for coffee producers. Over the last five years, some areas have seen production drop by as much as 35%. Meanwhile, extreme weather events in other coffee-growing nations have tightened global supply, pushing prices higher for consumers. With coffee demand rising and climate challenges intensifying, the future of coffee depends on sustainable farming, innovation, and climate resilience.

The Rising Cost of Green Coffee Beans in 2025: Trends, Causes, and Future Outlook
If you've noticed your daily coffee costing more lately, you're not alone. Green coffee bean prices have soared to record highs, impacting roasters, cafes, and consumers alike. But why is coffee becoming so expensive? From extreme weather affecting harvests to increasing global demand and supply chain disruptions, multiple factors are driving up costs. This article breaks down the key reasons behind the price surge, what it means for the coffee industry, and whether we can expect relief in the coming years. Grab a cup, and let's dive in!

Is Coffee Addictive? The Science Behind Caffeine and Habit
Is coffee truly addictive, or is it just a habit we love? While caffeine can create a mild dependence, science shows it doesn’t cause the compulsive behaviour or severe withdrawal seen in true addictions. Caffeine works by blocking adenosine (the chemical that makes us feel tired) and gives a small dopamine boost, but its effects are far milder than addictive substances. While quitting coffee suddenly can lead to temporary withdrawal symptoms like headaches and fatigue, moderate coffee consumption has plenty of benefits. So, is coffee addictive? Not really—it’s just a daily ritual many of us enjoy.

How Coffee Farming Can Help (or Harm) Parrot Populations
Coffee farming has a massive impact on wildlife, especially in tropical regions where parrots live. When done unsustainably, it leads to deforestation, destroying critical nesting sites and food sources for parrots and other birds. But when grown the right way—under the shade of native trees—coffee farming can actually protect habitats and support biodiversity. At The Aviary, we source Bird-Friendly coffee, educate farmers on ethical practices, and donate to wild parrot conservation. Choosing the right coffee makes a difference—not just in your cup, but in the world.

The Psychology of Coffee: Why Does It Feel So Comforting?
Coffee is more than just a drink—it’s a ritual, a moment of comfort, and a daily source of joy. Whether it’s the warmth of the cup in your hands, the familiar aroma filling the air, or the first sip that instantly lifts your mood, coffee has a unique way of grounding us. Science backs this up too—its warmth triggers feelings of relaxation, its aroma reduces stress, and its caffeine gives a gentle dopamine boost. But beyond that, coffee is social, nostalgic, and deeply tied to our routines. So why does coffee feel so comforting? Let’s dive into the psychology behind it.

What Does Bird-Friendly Coffee Mean?
Bird-Friendly coffee isn’t just about great flavour—it’s about protecting wildlife. Unlike conventional coffee farming, which often leads to deforestation, Bird-Friendly coffee is grown under a natural tree canopy, preserving critical habitats for migratory birds and other wildlife. Certified by the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center, it meets strict organic and sustainability standards, making it one of the most environmentally responsible coffee choices available. At The Aviary, we proudly support Bird-Friendly coffee, ensuring your morning brew helps protect the birds that inspire us.

How Altitude Affects Coffee Flavour
Ever wondered why some coffees taste bright and fruity while others are rich and chocolatey? The answer often lies in altitude. The elevation where coffee is grown affects everything from sweetness and acidity to body and complexity. Higher altitudes produce slower-growing beans packed with vibrant flavours, while lower altitudes create smooth, chocolatey coffees with a heavier body. Whether you love bright citrusy notes or deep caramel richness, understanding altitude can help you find your perfect cup.

What’s So Special About Specialty Coffee?
Specialty coffee isn’t just about caffeine—it’s about quality, flavour, and ethical sourcing. Unlike mass-produced coffee, which is often stale, over-roasted, and made from low-quality beans, specialty coffee is carefully grown, hand-picked, and roasted to highlight its natural complexity. From bright citrus and floral notes to deep chocolate and caramel sweetness, every cup tells a story of its origin. But is it really worth it? Discover what makes specialty coffee so special and why once you try it, you’ll never go back to ordinary coffee again.

How to Make Authentic Vietnamese Egg Coffee at Home
Vietnamese Egg Coffee is a rich and indulgent treat, combining bold, strong coffee with a sweet, creamy egg foam that tastes like dessert in a cup. Learn how to make this iconic Hanoi speciality at home with simple ingredients and the right brewing method for a perfectly smooth and velvety coffee experience.

Which Coffee Tastes Better: Dark Roast, Medium Roast, or Light Roast?
Wondering which coffee roast tastes best? Light, medium, and dark roasts all bring out different flavours, from bright and fruity to bold and chocolatey. Learn how the roasting process affects coffee beans, what flavours each roast enhances, and which brew methods bring out the best in every roast level.

Should You Freeze Your Coffee Beans?
Thinking about freezing your coffee beans to keep them fresh? Think again. Freezing can introduce moisture, alter flavour, and accelerate staleness instead of preserving freshness. Learn why freezing coffee is a bad idea and discover the best way to store your beans for maximum flavour and quality.

The Effects of Coffee Farming on Rainforests, Parrots, and Their Habitats – and How The Aviary is Making a Difference
Coffee farming has a significant impact on rainforests and the parrots that call them home. Unsustainable practices lead to deforestation, habitat destruction, and declining wild parrot populations. Learn how The Aviary is working directly with farmers, sourcing ethical bird-friendly coffee, and donating to conservation efforts to protect these incredible birds and their natural environments

Best Way to Brew Coffee at Home
Discover the best way to brew coffee at home based on your preferences. From the simplicity of a French press for beginners to the precision of pour-over and AeroPress for speciality coffee lovers, learn which method suits your taste. Find out how the right brewing technique can elevate your coffee experience.

How Important is a Good Coffee Grinder?
Discover why a good coffee grinder is the most important part of your home barista setup. Learn how burr grinders ensure consistent, flavourful coffee, why blade grinders should be avoided, and how freshly ground beans unlock the full potential of your brew. Upgrade your coffee game today!

What is the Difference Between Arabica and Robusta Coffee Beans?
Curious about the difference between Arabica and Robusta coffee beans? Learn how these two major coffee types vary in flavour, caffeine content, growing conditions, and price. Discover why Arabica is the go-to choice for speciality coffee and how Robusta holds its own with bold, strong flavours perfect for espresso blends.