A career in coffee tasting (also known as coffee cupping) is growing in India, thanks to the expanding speciality coffee industry. Coffee tasters, or Q graders, evaluate coffee based on aroma, flavour, body, acidity, and aftertaste to ensure quality and consistency.

How to start a coffee tasting career in India

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1. Learn the basics of coffee

  • Understand coffee varieties, processing methods, and brewing techniques.
  • Develop sensory skills by tasting different types of coffee.

2. Enroll in professional coffee tasting courses

  • Coffee Board of India: Offers training programs like "Kaapi Shastra" focusing on coffee roasting and brewing.
  • Specialty Coffee Academy of India (SCAI): Provides SCA-certified courses covering barista skills, brewing, and sensory skills.
  • Araku Coffee Academy: Conducts SCA-certified courses, including "Introduction to Coffee" and "Barista Skills."
  • Kaapi Machines: Offers extensive barista training programs, including modules on manual brewing and latte art.
  • Marc's Coffees: Hosts master classes like "Foundations of Specialty Coffee" in Auroville.

3. Gain practical experience

Work in coffee establishments: Seek internships or positions at coffee farms, roasteries, or specialty cafés to gain hands-on experience.

Participate in cupping sessions: Engage in coffee cupping sessions to practice evaluating different brews.

Photo: iStock/amenic181
Photo: iStock/amenic181

4. Obtain relevant certifications

  • Q Grader Certification: A globally recognized credential that validates your coffee tasting proficiency.
  • SCA Sensory Skills Certification: Enhances your expertise in coffee evaluation.

5. Job opportunities in India

  • Coffee estates and plantations (Tata Coffee, Coorg coffee farms)
  • Coffee roasteries and speciality coffee brands (Blue Tokai, Third Wave, Araku Coffee)
  • Cafés and coffee chains (Starbucks, Café Coffee Day, independent specialty cafés)
  • Import/export businesses and quality control labs

6. Stay updated and network

Join professional groups: engage with communities like the Speciality Coffee Association to stay informed about industry trends.

Attend coffee events: Participate in workshops, seminars, and coffee festivals to network and learn from industry experts.

Salary and growth

Entry-level coffee tasters earn Rs 3–5 LPA, while experienced Q graders can earn Rs 12–25 LPA or more, especially in speciality coffee brands or international markets.

With expertise, you can become a head taster, roaster, coffee consultant, or start your own speciality coffee business.

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