Unlocking the Finest Brews: A Connoisseur’s Guide to the UK’s Top Coffee Roasters for Home Baristas
Introduction
The UK coffee scene has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, with a surge in specialty coffee shops and a growing community of passionate home baristas. This shift has paved the way for a thriving coffee roasting industry, offering an array of high-quality beans to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
As of 2024, the UK boasts over 700 coffee roasters, ranging from small artisanal operations to larger commercial entities[2]. This diversity has created a rich tapestry of flavours and roasting styles, providing home baristas with an unprecedented selection of freshly roasted beans to explore.
The coffee roasting market in the UK has seen significant growth, with sales value reaching approximately £289 million in recent years[4]. This expansion reflects the increasing demand for quality coffee, particularly among urban consumers who are driving the specialty coffee trend. In fact, about 15% of out-of-home coffee consumption is now estimated to be specialty grade[3].
For home baristas, this burgeoning market presents both opportunities and challenges. The vast array of options can be overwhelming, but it also allows for a deeper exploration of coffee’s nuances. From light, fruity roasts that highlight the bean’s origin to dark, bold profiles that stand up well to milk, there’s a roast to suit every preference and brewing method.
The Rise of Specialty Coffee
The concept of specialty coffee has taken root in the UK, with consumers showing a growing interest in the provenance and quality of their beans. This shift has led to an increase in specialty coffee shops, which often roast their own beans. Notable examples include:
- Small Batch Coffee Roasters
- Union Brew Lab
- Caravan Coffee Roasters
- Wood Street Coffee
- Redemption Roasters
These roasters not only serve their coffee in-house but also offer beans for home brewing, allowing enthusiasts to recreate cafe-quality drinks in their own kitchens.
The Home Barista Movement
The rise of home brewing has been a significant factor in the growth of the UK coffee roaster market. With more people investing in quality equipment and honing their skills, the demand for freshly roasted beans has soared. This trend has been further accelerated by recent global events, which have led to an increase in home coffee consumption.
For the home barista, understanding the nuances of different roasts is crucial. Factors such as roast level, origin, and processing method all contribute to the final cup’s flavour profile. As we delve deeper into the world of UK coffee roasters, we’ll explore how these elements come together to create the perfect brew, and how home baristas can make informed choices when selecting their beans.
In the following sections, we’ll examine the criteria for selecting top UK roasters, provide profiles of standout companies, and offer practical tips for storing, grinding, and brewing your chosen beans. Whether you’re new to the world of specialty coffee or a seasoned enthusiast, this guide aims to enhance your home brewing experience and introduce you to the best that UK coffee roasters have to offer.
Understanding Coffee Roasting
Coffee roasting is a complex process that significantly influences the flavour profile of the final brew. For UK home baristas, understanding this process is crucial in selecting the right beans and achieving the desired taste in their cup.
The Roasting Process
Coffee roasting involves heating green coffee beans to temperatures between 180°C and 240°C, depending on the desired roast level. During this process, the beans undergo physical and chemical changes that develop their flavour, aroma, and colour.
The roasting process typically progresses through several stages:
- Drying phase (up to 150°C)
- Maillard reaction (150°C to 170°C)
- First crack (around 205°C)
- Development phase
- Second crack (for darker roasts, around 225°C)
Each stage contributes to the bean’s final characteristics, with the Maillard reaction being particularly crucial for flavour development[4].
Roast Levels and Their Impact
The degree of roast significantly affects the coffee’s taste profile. UK roasters typically offer a range of roast levels to cater to diverse preferences:
Light Roast
Light roasts are typically roasted to temperatures between 180°C and 205°C, just reaching the first crack. These roasts preserve much of the bean’s original flavour, often showcasing bright, acidic notes with fruity or floral undertones. Light roasts are particularly popular for single-origin coffees, as they allow the unique characteristics of the bean’s origin to shine through[6].
Medium Roast
Medium roasts, achieved at temperatures between 210°C and 220°C, offer a balanced flavour profile. These roasts reduce acidity while developing a fuller body and bringing out more caramel-like sweetness. Medium roasts are versatile and widely appreciated by UK coffee drinkers for their harmonious flavour[2].
Dark Roast
Dark roasts, roasted beyond 225°C, develop bold, intense flavours with reduced acidity. These roasts often exhibit chocolatey or nutty notes, with hints of caramel or molasses. The extended roasting time brings oils to the surface of the bean, contributing to a heavier body[1].
Flavour Development in Roasting
The roasting process is where much of coffee’s complex flavour profile develops. As beans are heated, they undergo chemical reactions that create hundreds of aromatic compounds. The skill of the roaster lies in managing these reactions to highlight desirable flavours while minimising less pleasant ones.
For home baristas, understanding these processes can help in appreciating the nuances of different roasts and in selecting beans that suit their taste preferences and brewing methods.
Freshness and Storage
The freshness of roasted coffee is paramount for achieving the best flavour. Most UK specialty roasters provide a roast date on their packaging, allowing consumers to gauge freshness. Generally, coffee is at its peak flavour between 7 and 21 days after roasting.
To maintain freshness, home baristas should store their beans in an airtight container, away from light, heat, and moisture. Contrary to popular belief, storing coffee in the refrigerator or freezer is not recommended, as it can expose the beans to moisture and odours that affect flavour[7].
Selecting a Roaster
When choosing a UK coffee roaster, consider the following factors:
- Quality of beans and sourcing practices
- Roast date and batch size
- Variety of roast levels offered
- Commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing
- Customer service and educational resources
Many UK roasters, such as Rounton Coffee Roasters, offer detailed information about their sourcing and roasting processes, as well as flavour notes to guide selection[7].
For home baristas looking to delve deeper into the world of coffee roasting, some UK roasters offer courses and workshops. These can provide valuable insights into the roasting process and help develop a more nuanced appreciation of coffee flavours.
Understanding coffee roasting is an ongoing journey. As you explore different UK roasters and their offerings, you’ll develop a better sense of your preferences and how different roast levels interact with various brewing methods. This knowledge will ultimately lead to more satisfying and consistent brews in your home coffee setup.
Criteria for Selecting Top UK Roasters
For home baristas in the UK, choosing the right coffee roaster is crucial to achieving the perfect brew. This section explores the key factors to consider when selecting a coffee roaster, ensuring you get the best quality beans for your home brewing adventures.
Quality of Beans and Sourcing Practices
The foundation of great coffee lies in the quality of the beans. Top UK roasters prioritise sourcing high-quality, specialty-grade coffee beans. These beans typically come from the top 5% of coffee farms globally, ensuring superior flavour profiles and ethical sourcing practices.
When evaluating a roaster’s sourcing practices, consider the following:
- Traceability of the supply chain
- Direct trade relationships with farmers
- Commitment to sustainable farming practices
- Seasonal offerings reflecting harvest cycles
Many UK roasters, such as Origin Coffee Roasters, pride themselves on their transparent supply chains and direct relationships with coffee growers. This approach not only ensures quality but also supports fair compensation for farmers.
Freshness and Roasting Practices
Freshness is paramount in coffee. The best UK roasters roast in small batches and provide clear roast dates on their packaging. This information allows home baristas to use the beans at their peak flavour, typically within 2-4 weeks of roasting.
Roasting practices vary among UK roasters, with some, like Volcano Coffee Works, focusing on bringing out the natural flavours of the bean through careful roast profiling. Others may specialise in specific roast levels or blend creation.
Variety of Offerings
A diverse range of coffee options caters to different tastes and brewing methods. Look for roasters that offer:
- Single-origin coffees
- Carefully crafted blends
- Various roast levels
- Decaf options
This variety allows home baristas to experiment with different flavour profiles and find the perfect match for their preferred brewing method.
Commitment to Quality Control
Top-tier UK roasters implement rigorous quality control measures. This process often includes:
- Green coffee assessment (screen size, defect count, moisture check)
- Sample roasting and cupping
- Regular flavour profile evaluations
Roasters like Assembly Coffee have invested in state-of-the-art equipment, such as Loring roaster machines and sensory labs, to ensure consistent quality across batches.
Customer Service and Education
The best roasters go beyond simply selling coffee; they educate their customers. Look for roasters that provide:
- Detailed tasting notes and brewing recommendations
- Online resources or blogs about coffee
- Customer support for brewing queries
- Workshops or training sessions (in-person or virtual)
Rounton Coffee Roasters, for example, offers training courses and provides informative brewing method videos on their website, helping home baristas improve their skills.
Sustainability and Ethics
Many UK coffee enthusiasts prioritise sustainability and ethical practices. Consider roasters that demonstrate:
- Use of recyclable or compostable packaging
- Carbon-neutral initiatives
- Fair trade or direct trade practices
- Support for coffee-growing communities
Balance Coffee, for instance, focuses on providing coffee that is not only flavourful but also screened for contaminants and sourced ethically.
Value for Money
While price shouldn’t be the sole determining factor, it’s important to consider value for money. This doesn’t necessarily mean choosing the cheapest option, but rather finding a roaster that offers quality coffee at a fair price point.
Consider factors such as:
- Price per gram of coffee
- Subscription discounts
- Shipping costs and policies
- Loyalty programmes or bulk purchase options
By carefully weighing these criteria, UK home baristas can select a coffee roaster that not only provides excellent beans but also aligns with their values and brewing preferences. Remember, the perfect roaster for you may evolve as your coffee journey progresses, so don’t be afraid to explore and experiment with different UK roasters over time.
Top UK Coffee Roasters
The UK coffee scene boasts a diverse array of roasters, each offering unique flavour profiles and roasting styles. This section highlights some of the standout coffee roasters that UK home baristas should consider exploring.
Rave Coffee
Based in Cirencester, Rave Coffee has gained a reputation for consistently high-quality beans and excellent value. Their subscription service, starting from £8.95 per month, offers flexibility in terms of frequency and grind size. Rave’s commitment to freshness is evident in their roast-to-order approach, ensuring that subscribers receive beans at their peak flavour.
Caravan Coffee Roasters
Caravan, a London-based roaster, has established itself as a leader in the specialty coffee market. Their subscription service, starting from £8 per bag, provides options for both filter and espresso drinkers. Caravan’s ‘roaster’s choice’ subscription is particularly noteworthy, allowing subscribers to experience a rotating selection of in-season coffees chosen by their expert roasters.
Square Mile Coffee Roasters
Founded by world barista champion James Hoffmann, Square Mile has become synonymous with quality in the London coffee scene. Their subscription service, starting from £12.50 per month, offers a range of options including espresso, filter, and decaf beans. Square Mile is known for its meticulous approach to sourcing and roasting, often featuring small micro-lots exclusive to subscribers.
Origin Coffee Roasters
Cornwall-based Origin Coffee Roasters has built a strong reputation for ethically sourced, specialty-grade coffee. Their subscription service allows customers to choose from a variety of roast profiles and origins. Origin’s commitment to sustainability extends to their packaging, which is fully recyclable or compostable.
North Star Coffee Roasters
Located in Leeds, North Star focuses on sustainable and ethical coffee sourcing. Their subscription service, starting from £11.50 per 250g, offers a range of single-origin coffees and blends. North Star is particularly noted for their transparency in pricing and sourcing practices.
Characteristics of Top UK Roasters
The best UK coffee roasters typically share several key attributes:
- Transparent sourcing practices
- Regular cupping sessions for quality control
- Seasonal rotation of coffee offerings
- Detailed flavour notes and brewing recommendations
- Commitment to sustainability and ethical trade
Subscription Services
Many top UK roasters offer subscription services, providing home baristas with a convenient way to explore different coffees. These subscriptions often include:
- Flexible delivery frequencies
- Options for whole bean or ground coffee
- Ability to pause or skip deliveries
- Curated selections based on personal preferences
When choosing a subscription, consider factors such as roast date, delivery frequency, and the variety of coffees offered. Some roasters, like Batch Coffee, even curate selections from multiple UK roasters, offering a broader range of experiences.
Supporting Local Roasters
While the roasters mentioned above have national recognition, the UK is home to numerous smaller, local roasters worth exploring. The Local Coffee Club, for instance, offers a unique service that connects subscribers with roasters in their geographical area, starting from £11.99 per month.
Supporting local roasters not only ensures freshness but also contributes to the local coffee community. Many of these smaller roasters offer tours, tastings, and workshops, providing valuable educational experiences for home baristas.
By exploring the offerings of these top UK roasters and local gems, home baristas can significantly enhance their coffee experience. Remember that taste preferences are subjective, so don’t hesitate to sample beans from various roasters to find those that best suit your palate and brewing methods.
Tips for Home Baristas
For UK home baristas, selecting the right coffee roaster is just the first step in crafting the perfect cup. This section provides practical advice on how to make the most of your freshly roasted beans.
Storing Your Coffee
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the flavour and aroma of your coffee. Keep your beans in an airtight container, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Contrary to popular belief, storing coffee in the refrigerator or freezer is not recommended, as it can expose the beans to odours and condensation that affect taste.
Grinding Your Beans
For optimal flavour, grind your beans just before brewing. The grind size should match your brewing method:
- Espresso: Fine grind
- Filter coffee: Medium grind
- French press: Coarse grind
Invest in a quality burr grinder for consistent results. Blade grinders can produce uneven grounds, leading to inconsistent extraction.
Brewing Methods
Different brewing methods can highlight various aspects of your coffee’s flavour profile. Here are some popular methods among UK home baristas:
Pour-Over
This method offers clean, bright flavours and is ideal for single-origin coffees. Use a medium grind and a 1:16 coffee-to-water ratio for a balanced cup.
Espresso
Espresso machines are popular in UK households. Aim for a 1:2 ratio of coffee to water, with an extraction time of 25-30 seconds for a well-balanced shot.
French Press
French press produces a full-bodied cup. Use a coarse grind and steep for 4 minutes before plunging for best results.
Water Quality and Temperature
Water quality significantly impacts your coffee’s taste. Use filtered water if your tap water is hard or has a strong taste. For most brewing methods, water temperature should be between 90-96°C.
Experimenting with Flavour Profiles
Many UK roasters offer tasting notes for their coffees. Use these as a guide to develop your palate. Try cupping different coffees side by side to identify subtle flavour differences.
Subscription Services
Coffee subscriptions can be an excellent way for home baristas to explore different roasters and beans. Some notable UK-based subscription services include:
- Rave Coffee: Offers flexible subscriptions from £8.95 per month
- Caravan Coffee Roasters: Provides a ‘roaster’s choice’ option from £8 per bag
- Square Mile Coffee Roasters: Known for expertly curated selections from £12.50 per month
These services often provide detailed information about the coffee’s origin, processing method, and flavour notes, enhancing your coffee education.
By applying these tips and exploring different UK roasters, home baristas can significantly elevate their coffee experience. Remember, perfecting your brew is a journey of experimentation and discovery, so don’t be afraid to try new beans, methods, and techniques.
Getting Started with Home Roasting
For UK home baristas looking to take their coffee journey to the next level, home roasting offers an exciting avenue for exploration. This section delves into the basics of home roasting, providing practical insights for those interested in roasting their own beans.
Understanding the Roasting Process
Home roasting involves heating green coffee beans to develop their flavour profiles. The process typically progresses through several stages, each contributing to the final taste of the coffee. These stages include:
- Drying phase
- Yellowing
- First crack
- Development phase
- Second crack (for darker roasts)
Understanding these stages is crucial for achieving desired roast levels and flavour profiles.
Equipment for Home Roasting
Several methods are available for home roasting, ranging from simple to more advanced techniques:
Pan Roasting
The most basic method involves roasting beans in a heavy-bottomed pan over a heat source. While cost-effective, this method requires constant attention and can produce uneven results.
Air Popcorn Popper
A popular entry-level option, air popcorn poppers can be repurposed for coffee roasting. They offer better heat distribution than pan roasting but have limited capacity and control.
Purpose-Built Home Roasters
For those serious about home roasting, dedicated roasters provide more control and consistency. Options range from small batch drum roasters to fluid bed roasters. UK-based retailers like Bella Barista offer a selection of home roasting equipment.
Sourcing Green Beans
Several UK-based suppliers offer green coffee beans suitable for home roasting:
- Rave Coffee: Provides a range of single-origin green beans
- Hasbean: Offers a selection of green beans with detailed origin information
- The Coffee Compass: Specialises in green beans for home roasters
When selecting green beans, consider factors such as origin, processing method, and flavour notes to align with your roasting goals.
Roasting Techniques
Successful home roasting requires attention to several key factors:
- Batch size: Start with small batches (100-200g) for better control
- Heat management: Maintain consistent heat throughout the roast
- Agitation: Ensure beans roast evenly by constant movement
- Time and temperature monitoring: Keep track of roast progression
- Cooling: Rapidly cool beans post-roast to halt the roasting process
Record Keeping
Maintaining detailed roast logs helps in refining your technique. Record information such as:
- Bean origin and variety
- Roast date and time
- Roast profile (time and temperature at each stage)
- Tasting notes
This practice allows for consistent replication of successful roasts and continuous improvement.
Safety Considerations
Home roasting produces smoke and chaff, necessitating proper ventilation. Roast in a well-ventilated area or outdoors when possible. Additionally, be aware of the fire risk associated with roasting and never leave the process unattended.
By exploring home roasting, UK coffee enthusiasts can gain a deeper appreciation for the art and science behind their favourite beverage. While it requires investment in time and equipment, home roasting offers unparalleled freshness and the opportunity to create truly personalised coffee experiences.
Advanced Home Roasting
For UK home baristas looking to elevate their coffee roasting skills, this section explores more advanced techniques and equipment options. As your experience grows, you may find yourself drawn to more sophisticated roasting methods and tools that offer greater control and consistency.
Choosing Advanced Roasting Equipment
Several high-quality roasters are available for the serious home roaster in the UK. These machines offer features typically found in commercial roasters, allowing for precise control over the roasting process.
Gene Cafe Roaster
The Gene Cafe Roaster has gained popularity among UK home roasters for its reliability and consistent results. This drum roaster offers:
- 250g maximum green coffee capacity
- Temperature range of 190-250°C
- Roast time of up to 18 minutes
- Chaff collection system
The Gene Cafe’s unique off-axis roasting drum ensures even heat distribution, while its glass roasting chamber allows for visual monitoring of the roasting process[1].
Ikawa Home Roaster
For those seeking ultimate precision, the Ikawa Home Roaster offers a high-tech solution. Although it has a smaller capacity of 60g, it provides:
- Precise temperature control
- Smartphone app integration for roast profiling
- Quiet operation
- Compact design suitable for small spaces
The Ikawa’s app allows users to create, save, and share roast profiles, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy experimenting with different roasting curves[2].
Advanced Roasting Techniques
As you progress in your roasting journey, consider exploring these advanced techniques:
Profile Roasting
Profile roasting involves carefully controlling the heat application throughout the roast to highlight specific flavour characteristics. This method requires:
- Precise temperature control
- Careful timing of heat adjustments
- Understanding of bean density and moisture content
Many advanced home roasters use software like Artisan to log and replicate successful roast profiles.
Blending Post-Roast
Creating your own blends can be a rewarding aspect of home roasting. Consider these factors when blending:
- Roast levels of individual components
- Flavour profiles of different origins
- Ratio of each component in the blend
Experiment with small batches and keep detailed notes to refine your blends over time.
Sourcing Specialty Green Beans
As your roasting skills advance, you may want to explore a wider range of green coffee beans. Several UK-based suppliers offer high-quality, specialty-grade green beans suitable for home roasting. Look for suppliers that provide detailed information about:
- Bean origin and variety
- Processing method
- Cupping notes
- Recommended roast profiles
By sourcing diverse and high-quality green beans, you can expand your palate and create truly unique roasts tailored to your preferences.
Developing Your Sensory Skills
Advanced roasting requires a refined palate. To develop your sensory skills:
- Regularly cup your roasts
- Attend cupping sessions at local roasteries
- Practice identifying different flavour notes
- Compare your roasts with commercially roasted beans
Keeping detailed roast logs and tasting notes will help you track your progress and refine your roasting techniques over time.
By embracing these advanced roasting techniques and equipment options, UK home baristas can take their coffee roasting to new heights, creating cafe-quality brews in the comfort of their own homes.
Conclusion
The UK coffee scene has evolved significantly, with home baristas playing an increasingly important role in shaping the country’s coffee culture. This guide has explored the diverse landscape of UK coffee roasters, from established names to emerging local artisans, providing home baristas with the knowledge to make informed choices about their coffee.
The Journey of Coffee Appreciation
As we’ve seen, the path from green bean to cup is complex and nuanced. Understanding the roasting process, from the initial drying phase to the crucial first and second cracks, empowers home baristas to appreciate the skill involved in creating the perfect roast. This knowledge also aids in selecting roasters who align with one’s personal taste preferences.
Home Roasting: A Growing Trend
The rise of home roasting in the UK reflects a deeper engagement with coffee. From simple methods like pan roasting to more advanced techniques using dedicated home roasters, enthusiasts are exploring new ways to customise their coffee experience. This trend not only provides fresher coffee but also fosters a greater connection to the entire coffee-making process.
Key Takeaways for UK Home Baristas
When selecting and using roasted coffee, consider the following:
- Freshness: Opt for beans with clear roast dates
- Storage: Use airtight containers away from light and heat
- Grinding: Grind just before brewing for optimal flavour
- Experimentation: Try beans from various UK roasters
For those venturing into home roasting:
- Start simple: Begin with basic methods like pan roasting
- Keep records: Log roasting times and outcomes
- Practice safety: Ensure proper ventilation during roasting
- Join communities: Connect with other UK home roasters for tips
The Future of UK Coffee
The UK coffee scene continues to evolve, with roasting competitions and educational initiatives driving innovation and quality. As home baristas become more knowledgeable, they contribute to raising standards across the industry, encouraging roasters to push boundaries and explore new flavour profiles.
Continuous Learning
Coffee appreciation is an ongoing journey. UK home baristas are encouraged to:
- Attend local coffee events and cuppings
- Engage with roasters through workshops and tours
- Experiment with different brewing methods
- Stay informed about sustainability practices in coffee production
By embracing this continuous learning approach, UK home baristas can play a vital role in supporting and shaping the country’s vibrant coffee culture. Whether sourcing beans from top UK roasters or embarking on home roasting adventures, the key is to enjoy the process and savour the results of this fascinating craft.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top UK coffee roasters for home baristas?
Some of the best UK coffee roasters for home baristas include:
- Square Mile Coffee Roasters
- Rave Coffee
- Monmouth Coffee Company
- Origin Coffee Roasters
- Has Bean Coffee
- Caravan Coffee Roasters
- Climpson & Sons
These roasters are known for their quality beans, freshness, and variety of options suitable for home brewing.
How often should I order coffee beans to ensure freshness?
For optimal freshness:
- Order beans every 2-4 weeks
- Buy only what you can consume within this period
- Check the roast date on the packaging
- Store beans properly in an airtight container away from light and heat
Freshly roasted beans are best consumed within 2-4 weeks of the roast date for peak flavour.
What’s the difference between single origin and blend coffees?
- Single origin: Beans from one specific geographic location, offering unique flavour profiles characteristic of that region
- Blend: A mixture of beans from different origins, created to achieve a balanced and consistent flavour profile
Single origins are great for exploring distinct flavours, while blends offer consistency and are often preferred for espresso.
How do I choose the right roast level for my taste preferences?
Consider these factors:
- Light roasts: Brighter, more acidic, with floral and fruity notes
- Medium roasts: Balanced flavour, some acidity, with nutty and chocolatey notes
- Dark roasts: Bold, less acidic, with caramel and smoky notes
Experiment with different roast levels to find what suits your palate and brewing method best.
Are subscription services from UK roasters worth it for home baristas?
Subscription services can be beneficial for home baristas:
- Regular supply of freshly roasted beans
- Opportunity to try different coffees
- Often more cost-effective than one-off purchases
- Convenient delivery to your door
Consider your coffee consumption and desire for variety when deciding if a subscription is right for you.
How important is the roast date when buying coffee beans?
The roast date is crucial:
- Beans are best consumed 7-21 days after roasting
- Flavours develop and peak during this period
- After 3-4 weeks, flavours begin to degrade
- Always check the roast date when purchasing
- Avoid beans without a clear roast date
Freshness significantly impacts the quality of your brew, so prioritise recently roasted beans.
What should I look for in a UK coffee roaster’s sourcing practices?
Consider these factors:
- Transparency about bean origins
- Direct trade relationships with farmers
- Seasonal offerings reflecting harvest cycles
- Commitment to sustainable and ethical practices
- Information about processing methods
Roasters who provide detailed information about their sourcing often prioritise quality and sustainability.
How do UK coffee roasters’ prices compare to supermarket coffee?
Speciality roasters typically charge more than supermarkets due to:
- Higher quality beans
- Fresher roasts
- Smaller batch sizes
- More labour-intensive processes
- Direct trade practices
While pricier, the quality and flavour of speciality roasters’ coffee often justifies the cost for enthusiasts.
Can I visit UK coffee roasters to learn more about their process?
Many UK roasters offer:
- Cupping sessions
- Roastery tours
- Brewing classes
- Public events
Check individual roasters’ websites or contact them directly for information on visits and educational opportunities.
How do I store coffee beans from UK roasters to maintain freshness?
To preserve freshness:
- Keep beans in an airtight container
- Store in a cool, dark place
- Avoid refrigeration or freezing
- Buy whole beans and grind as needed
- Purchase amounts you can use within 2-4 weeks
Proper storage helps maintain the flavours and aromas of your freshly roasted beans.
