July 18, 2024

Brewing Through the Storm: A Coffee Roaster's Perspective

By Oaks The Coffee Guy
Brewing Through the Storm: A Coffee Roaster's Perspective

As a coffee roaster, my world revolves around the perfect brew, but life has a way of throwing curveballs. Recently, hurricane Beryl swept through Houston and the surrounding areas, reminding me that even in chaos, coffee remains a constant comfort.

While the storm raged outside, my mind was on the Brazilian beans waiting to be roasted. This particular coffee, a staple in my roastery, is what I affectionately call a "basic bitch" - not to diminish its quality, but to highlight its broad appeal. It's a medium roast with a flavor profile that hits the sweet spot for many coffee drinkers: nutty and chocolatey, without any overpowering fruitiness that might alienate the average joe.

For those of you looking to understand the nuances of coffee, here's a tip: temperature matters. I typically brew this Brazilian at 200°F, but I'm considering lowering it to 190°F or even 185°F. Why? Because sometimes, a lower temperature can coax out more of those chocolate notes we love, especially in a lighter roast. It's all about experimentation.

Speaking of experimentation, let's talk brewing methods. I've been playing with a flat bottom brewer lately. While it's not my favorite, it's teaching me valuable lessons about extraction. For home brewers, don't be afraid to try different methods - each one can bring out unique characteristics in your coffee.

Now, you might wonder why a roaster obsesses over brewing methods. The truth is, understanding how coffee behaves under different conditions helps me roast better. It's a continuous loop of learning and improving.

In the wake of the hurricane, with power outages and generator hums as my background noise, I've been reflecting on how to better serve coffee enthusiasts like you. Here's what I'm working on:

  1. More frequent, bite-sized content to help you navigate the world of coffee.
  2. In-depth reviews of different coffee varieties, so you can make informed choices.
  3. Practical brewing tips that you can apply at home, regardless of your equipment.

For those of you just starting your coffee journey, remember this: your palate evolves. That Brazilian coffee I mentioned? It's a great starting point. As you explore, you might find yourself drawn to more complex flavors - perhaps a fruity Ethiopian or a bold Sumatran.

Here's a challenge for you: Next time you brew your coffee, try to identify two distinct flavors. Is it nutty? Chocolatey? Fruity? Earthy? This exercise will help you develop your palate and appreciate the nuances in different coffees.

As we recover from the storm, I'm reminded that coffee is more than just a beverage - it's a ritual, a comfort, and a constant in an ever-changing world. Whether you're a seasoned coffee connoisseur or just beginning to explore beyond your regular cup, remember that every sip is an opportunity to learn and appreciate.

Stay curious, keep experimenting, and most importantly, enjoy your coffee. After all, in the words of a true coffee lover, life's too short for bad coffee.

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