As a coffee roaster with an engineering background, I've always been fascinated by the science and art of creating the perfect cup. However, I've recently had a revelation that's changed my entire approach to coffee: being a great "roastmaster" is only half the battle. To truly serve coffee lovers, I need to become a "brewmaster" as well.

Let me take you on a journey through my recent epiphany and share some insights that might change the way you think about your daily brew.

The Mr. Coffee Experiment

It all started with a humble Mr. Coffee machine. As a specialty coffee roaster, I'll admit I've often overlooked these basic brewers. But the truth is, millions of people use them every day. So, I decided to dive deep and really understand how this machine works.

I've been meticulously testing brew temperatures, analyzing flow rates, and adjusting grind sizes. It's been eye-opening to see how small changes can significantly impact the final cup. For instance, I discovered that the actual brew temperature is likely higher than what you measure in the carafe, which can affect extraction and flavor.

This experiment made me realize something crucial: as a roaster, I need to understand not just how to create great coffee, but how to make it shine in the brewers people actually use.

Bridging the Gap

Here's the thing: there's often a disconnect between how we roast coffee and how people brew it at home. We roasters can get caught up in the nuances of flavor profiles and roast curves, forgetting that our customers might be using pre-ground coffee in an automatic drip machine.

To truly serve coffee lovers, we need to bridge this gap. It's not just about creating the perfect roast; it's about creating a roast that performs well in a variety of brewing methods, from pour-overs to French presses to yes, even Mr. Coffee machines.

Understanding Your Coffee Journey

As coffee professionals, we sometimes forget our own beginnings. Many of us started our coffee journey with a basic drip machine or a French press. These tools, which we might now consider "inferior," were our gateway into the world of coffee.

It's important to remember and respect these roots. That Starbucks latte or the coffee from your local diner played a crucial role in developing your palate and passion for coffee. By acknowledging this, we can better understand and serve coffee drinkers at all stages of their journey.

Practical Tips for Better Coffee

So, what does this mean for you, the coffee drinker? Here are some takeaways:

1. Experiment with grind size: Even with an automatic drip machine, adjusting your grind can dramatically improve your cup. Try grinding a bit finer than you might think for drip coffee.
2. Consider water temperature: If your machine allows, aim for a brew temperature between 195°F and 205°F for optimal extraction.
3. Don't be afraid of pre-ground coffee: While freshly ground is ideal, a high-quality pre-ground coffee can still make a great cup, especially in automatic brewers.
4. Respect your journey: Whether you're drinking instant coffee or single-origin pour-overs, every cup is part of your unique coffee experience.
5. Communicate with roasters: Don't hesitate to ask your local roaster for brewing recommendations specific to your equipment. We're here to help!

The Future of Coffee

As I continue my journey as both a roastmaster and a brewmaster, I'm excited to develop coffees and recommendations that bridge the gap between specialty and everyday brewing. The goal is to help every coffee drinker, regardless of their equipment or experience level, to brew the best possible cup.

Remember, great coffee isn't just about expensive equipment or rare beans. It's about understanding your preferences, respecting your journey, and continually exploring this fascinating world one cup at a time.

So, the next time you brew your morning coffee, take a moment to appreciate where you are in your coffee journey. And know that roasters like me are working hard to make sure that cup is the best it can be, no matter how you brew it.