A man demonstrates coffee-making techniques to a group of men during the Men's Chat Group.

In partnership with Woollahra Council, our Men’s Chat Group for May was a special one, filled with the rich aromas and deep flavours of the world of coffee.

 

Held at Woollahra Library, the event welcomed Renzo Castillo from Di Bartoli Coffee, who gave an insightful presentation on espresso, roasting, and crafting the perfect cup. Our group not only expanded their coffee knowledge but also savoured barista-made coffee crafted live during the event session.

 

Exploring coffee: From farm to cup

Renzo took the group on an interesting journey through the origins of coffee. He explained how factors like climate, altitude, and processing methods affect the flavour of coffee. He compared coffee beans to grapes in wine, noting that their taste depends on where they come from and how they are processed.

 

Our group learned how coffee roasting is both an art and a science, with every bean’s character shaped by time, temperature, and technique.

 

Barista skills and espresso secrets

With hands-on demonstrations, Renzo shared practical barista tips, covering grind size, temperature stability, and milk steaming techniques to create cafe-quality drinks at home. He emphasised the importance of consistency, comparing the precision of espresso-making to following a trusted recipe.

 

Coffee culture, ethics and community

Beyond the beans, Renzo spoke about the global coffee industry, including his visits to coffee farms in Peru, Colombia, and India. He shared stories of ethical sourcing, explained the impact of commercialisation on farmers, and raised important conversations about sustainability and animal welfare in exotic coffee production.

 

Why social groups matter for seniors

Holdsworth’s Men’s Chat Group offers more than just conversation, it provides a space where seniors can connect, learn and belong. These events play a key role in combating isolation, supporting wellbeing, and keeping minds active.

 

Join us next time

Interested in joining our next Men’s Chat or other social groups in the Eastern Suburbs?

Please contact Holdsworth at (02) 9161 6369 or info@holdsworth.org.au.