The coffee plant comes from an Ethiopian province, Kaffa. But do you know how the refreshing effects of coffee were discovered? Legend has it that a shepherd called Caldi noticed that when his goats grazed on red coffee berries, they became more lively. He immediately told the story to nearby monks, who discovered that roasting the seeds would make a tasty drink to keep them awake during night prayers.
There are around 120 known varieties of coffee, but only Arabica (Coffea arabica) and Robusta (Coffea canephora) are widely grown. The former has a milder flavour but can only grow in tropical areas above 900 metres, while robusta coffee is hardier, richer in caffeine and thrives at lower altitudes.
How is coffee made?
The red, ripe coffee berries (cherries) are picked by hand, then immediately washed and the pulp removed. The coffee beans are sorted in several stages, sorted, fermented in a water tank, washed again and dried in the sun to remove the thin skin that remains on the surface.
The aromas of coffee beans are developed through roasting, where moisture content, specific gravity, size, colour, and knowledge of processing and origin are all important factors. If the roasting process is faster, less aroma can develop in the beans, and the darker the roast, the less caffeine.
Delicious coffees in a magical place
Wouldn't it be exciting to travel back in time and take a peek into the life of the first European café in Venice in the early 1600s? Even if that's not possible, you too can get your (magic) fix in our magic café after a delicious enchanted meal with fabulous aromas. With a sip of a mysteriously steaming Espresso, Americano, Cappuccino, Latte Macchiato and Melange, caramel, apple pie flavouring or an Iced Coffee, you'll be off to a dazzling fairytale world, flying on the wings of fantasy. Dear fans of the Wizarding World and Harry Potter, you are guaranteed an unforgettable experience amidst the stunning scenery.
See for yourself with your own taste buds: a touch of magic and enchantment, for the brave adventurers in the magic café is included!