Oak Barrel Roastery

Specialty Coffee

The Coffee Story

Coffee farming is the cultivation of coffee plants for the production of coffee beans, which are the primary ingredient used to make coffee. Here is some basic information on coffee farming:

  1. Coffee plants: Coffee plants are small trees that grow in tropical regions. There are two main species of coffee plants: Arabica and Robusta. Arabica is the most widely grown species and is considered to produce higher-quality coffee, while Robusta is generally used for lower-quality coffee blends.
  2. Growing conditions: Coffee plants require a specific set of growing conditions to produce high-quality coffee beans. They thrive in temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit and require a consistent supply of water. Coffee plants also need well-draining soil and prefer to grow in areas with plenty of sunshine.
  3. Harvesting: Coffee plants typically take three to four years to mature and start producing coffee beans. The harvesting process involves handpicking the ripe coffee cherries from the trees. The cherries are then processed to remove the outer layers and reveal the coffee beans.
  4. Processing: After the coffee beans have been harvested, they are processed to remove the outer layers and dried. There are two main methods of processing coffee beans: the dry method, which involves drying the beans in the sun, and the wet method, which involves removing the outer layers using water and then drying the beans.
  5. Roasting: Once the coffee beans have been processed, they are roasted to develop their characteristic flavor and aroma. Roasting involves heating the beans to high temperatures to bring out their natural oils and sugars.
  6. Trade: Coffee is one of the world's most valuable commodities, with an estimated 25 million people employed in the coffee industry worldwide. Coffee is grown in more than 60 countries around the world, with Brazil, Colombia, and Vietnam being the largest producers. Coffee is traded on global commodity markets, and the price of coffee can fluctuate depending on supply and demand.

Coffee roasting is the process of transforming green coffee beans into roasted coffee beans, which are then used to make coffee. The roasting process is what gives coffee its characteristic flavor, aroma, and color. Here's a brief overview of the process:

  1. Selection of the green coffee beans: High-quality coffee starts with high-quality green coffee beans. Roasters carefully select beans from different regions and farms based on factors such as flavor profile, altitude, and processing method.
  2. Preheating: The roasting machine is preheated to a specific temperature, depending on the desired roast level, batch size and the type of beans being roasted.
  3. Loading the beans: Green coffee beans are loaded into the roasting machine, where they begin to heat up.
  4. First crack: As the beans heat up, they undergo a chemical reaction known as the Maillard reaction, which causes them to turn brown and release their characteristic coffee aroma. This process also causes the beans to expand and crack, which is known as the first crack.
  5. Roast level: The length of time the beans are roasted after the first crack determines the roast level. Light roasts are roasted for a shorter amount of time, while dark roasts are roasted for a longer period.
  6. Cooling: Once the desired roast level is reached, the beans are quickly cooled to prevent further roasting and preserve their flavor.
  7. Grinding and brewing: The roasted beans are then ground and brewed to make coffee.

Most popular coffee brewing techniques:

  1. Drip coffee: This is one of the most common methods of coffee brewing. Water is heated and then poured over coffee grounds placed in a filter. The brewed coffee then drips through the filter into a pot or carafe.
  2. French press: This method involves steeping coffee grounds in hot water for several minutes before pressing the plunger down to separate the grounds from the coffee.
  3. Pour-over: This method involves pouring hot water over coffee grounds placed in a filter, usually in a cone-shaped dripper.  The brewed coffee then drips through the filter into a cup or carafe.
  4. Espresso: This method involves forcing hot water through finely ground coffee beans at high pressure, resulting in a concentrated, strong shot of coffee.
  5. Aeropress: This is a relatively new method of coffee brewing that involves steeping coffee grounds in hot water for a short period of time before pressing the coffee through a filter using air pressure.
  6. Cold brew: This method involves steeping coffee grounds in cold water for several hours, resulting in a smooth, less acidic coffee concentrate.
  7. Turkish coffee: This is a traditional method of coffee brewing that involves boiling finely ground coffee beans and water together in a pot and then pouring the coffee into cups, along with the grounds.

These are just a few of the many different coffee brewing techniques available. Each method can produce a unique flavor profile and aroma, so it's worth trying different methods to find your favorite. 

The importance of quality coffee equipment cannot be overstated for those who value a perfect cup of coffee. Whether it's for personal use or serving customers in a coffee shop or cafe, the quality of the equipment is a crucial factor in determining the taste, aroma, and overall quality of the coffee. High-quality equipment, such as espresso machines, coffee grinders, and pour-over kettles, ensures that the coffee is brewed to perfection, with the right balance of flavors and aromas. Investing in quality coffee equipment not only enhances the coffee-drinking experience but also saves time and resources in the long run. It is also a wise investment for coffee shops and cafes looking to differentiate themselves from their competitors and attract a loyal customer base. Overall, the importance of quality coffee equipment cannot be overstated, and it is essential to choose equipment that meets the highest standards to ensure a memorable coffee experience.

Check out our online store for a variety of coffee equipment that you need to embark on your journey of exploring the world of coffee brewing techniques.

The general guideline for coffee brewing is to use a coffee-to-water ratio of 1:15 to 1:18. This means using 1 gram of coffee for every 15 to 18 grams of water.

Keep in mind that these ratios are just guidelines, and you may prefer a stronger or weaker brew depending on your personal taste preferences. Adjust the ratio as needed to find your ideal coffee strength.