All our green beans are cup-tested by sample before we commit to purchase, they must meet our rigid Blue Mountain coffee standards and expectations. Just because coffee is grown in the Blue Mountains doesn't mean its good Blue Mountain coffee! We vacuum pack the beans immediately after roasting to seal in the aroma and extend the life of the coffee, maintaining freshness. Buying whole bean coffee and grinding only what is needed for each brew is definitely the best way to preserve freshness, as the aroma is trapped within the beans.