Coffee is our passion project
It’s the driving force of every roast, the energy that guides our baristas, and has led us to some of the world’s finest coffee beans, and coffee people.
The first step to every passion project is finding green beans of unparalleled quality. Beans that express the traits of its origin land, and care received at each step of the journey to your cup.
As roasters and baristas, we have the privilege of handling those critical final stages in the journey. And just like anything that we love, we want your coffee to reach its full potential, so that every sip tells a story.
Defining Specialty Coffee
It’s a term that industry pros and casual coffee drinkers have struggled to pinpoint. We take our queues from the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) who created a framework to define specialty coffee in relation to its attributes.
“Specialty coffee is a coffee or coffee experience recognized for its distinctive attributes, and because of these attributes, has significant extra value in the marketplace.”
- Specialty Coffee Association, 2021
To learn more, check out Towards a Definition of Specialty Coffee from the SCA.
The Bean Belt
Specialty coffee requires a particular set of conditions. Near the equator, "the bean belt" has the right mix of characteristics for plants to thrive.
Tropical Climate
Nutrient-Rich Soil
High Altitudes
Moderate Sun
Ample Rain
“The perfect roast is only possible with the perfect green bean.”
The term “direct trade” can also be hard to define. There isn’t a single set of standards or practices, but in the simplest terms, direct trade is when a roaster buys coffee directly from a producer. No brokers, traders or middle-people. Just partners that rely on each other’s skills.
On a more metaphysical level, this represents a relationship where everyone is given the tools to thrive. Providing the best outcome for farmers, roasters, and coffee drinkers alike.
We qualify all of our coffee relationships using these four pillars:
Quality
Displays distinctive attributes, consistent screen size, and fresh (9-10.75% moisture).
Transparency
Open conversations about costs and pricing, honouring commitments.
Environmental
Responsible water use, land use, and sustainable farm practices.
Social
Dedicated to worker health and safety, living wage, gender equity, and educational support.
More on our Approach
