Hey coffee enthusiasts, I got something new brewing at Motif Roasters! My latest addition, Nor'easter, is a rich Papua New Guinea Organic coffee, roasted to perfection at a medium to dark level. But behind this delicious addition lies an intriguing journey into the world of coffee roasting.
You might wonder, how do I determine the ideal roast level for a coffee bean? Well, it's a blend of science, experience, and a touch of artistry. Typically, specialty roasters like us rely on a sample roaster—a nifty gadget that handles small batches for tasting. It's our window into how a coffee might taste with various roasting profiles.
However, there's a twist in my story. My sample roaster recently decided to take an extended break. So, I've taken a different route with the last few batches, including Nor'easter, opting for larger 6lb roasts. It's all about getting hands-on, creating a baseline understanding of how this coffee will shine. I start with the profile provided by the farmer or distributor and then delve into experimenting with different roast profiles.
Roasting coffee isn't just about watching beans change color; it's a symphony of senses. Vision doesn't play a major role here since we can't peek into the roasting drum. Instead, we rely on software that gives us temperature waveforms from various thermometers in the roaster. The key? Our noses, ears, and a keen sense of timing. The distinct crackling sounds—first crack, second crack—guide us through the process, complemented by the aroma that fills the air. Sure, we can grab samples during roasting, but that might slightly impact the drum's temperature.
How about those phases beans go through? There's the Drying Phase, the Maillard Phase where magic starts happening, the pivotal First Crack, and the Development Phase. For darker roasts, we might even venture into a Second Crack. My goal? To guide every coffee through these phases, adjusting timings to create a unique flavor profile. It's a delicate dance between beans, moisture, and time—each influencing the final taste.
So, as we introduce Nor'easter to our lineup, know that it's not just another coffee. It's a result of exploration, experimentation, and a deep passion for crafting the perfect cup. Come taste the difference in each sip—rich, aromatic, and meticulously roasted to captivate your senses.
Stay tuned for more coffee adventures, because at Motif Roasters, the journey from bean to cup is always a thrilling ride!