What does aftertaste mean in coffee cupping?

Aftertaste is the flavour that remains on your palate after you've swallowed or spat the coffee. It's one of the ten attributes scored on the SCA cupping form, and for good reason - a long, clean, pleasant aftertaste is one of the hardest things to fake and one of the clearest signs of quality green coffee.

At its best, aftertaste extends the experience well beyond the sip. You might notice dark chocolate or dried cherry that wasn't obvious in the first slurp, or a caramel sweetness that outlasts the cup by a minute or more. At its worst - short, harsh, astringent, or bitter - it points towards processing faults, poor green quality, or a roast that pushed too far.

It's worth distinguishing aftertaste from afternose, which is about lingering aroma rather than taste. Both deserve attention when you're evaluating a new lot. A coffee that scores well on both is one worth remembering.