Author: Ciarra Colacino

Women in Business

Posted on October 3, 2024 by - Stories & News

Sumner’s Chamber of Commerce Hosts an evening honoring women in business.

We joined the Puyallup Sumner Chamber of Commerce’s 6th Annual Women in Business event, celebrating leadership, mentorship, and women’s history on September 26, 2024.

An evening of inspiring speakers and business expo, Team DCR was thrilled to hear from the President & CEO of United Way Pierce County, the Chief Nurse Executive of MultiCare Good Samaritan Hospital, and Puyallup Food Bank leadership.

Dillanos Coffee Roasters is a proud member of the Puyallup-Sumner community and has hosted the Chamber of Commerce many times at our facility in Sumner, WA.

Bjorn Celebrates 25 years at DCR

Posted on September 18, 2024 by - Stories & News

“My number one priority is to get great coffee to our customers with quality and consistency.”

Bjorn started in 1999 by packaging coffee.

Dillanos was only in its seventh year of business in 1999, the future that was to unfold in the decades to come still unknown.

Just a teen and a new member of the packaging team, Bjorn’s potential was undiscovered. Though, it wouldn’t take long for him to become an instrumental force in driving the caliber of coffee for which Dillanos is known. And become DCR’s longest running employee.

Only months into his packaging role, Bjorn jumped at the opportunity to join the roaster apprenticeship program. There, he would spend the next 12 months learning the industry standards for professional coffee roasting as well as the proprietary techniques and blends DCR had already crafted in its early years.

Dillanos was gaining traction around the Puget Sound area and Bjorn was inspired to further that momentum.

From Roasting to Buying to Quality Control

As Dillanos was rapidly expanding in the early 2000’s, Bjorn’s passion for coffee followed in-step. Soon he was diving into the world of coffee — engaging a truly global market from the small town of Sumner, Washington.

While producing freshly roasted coffee at scale demands expertise, the secret to a successful coffee roastery is dependent upon the relationships formed with farming communities worldwide. Bjorn’s genuine kindness and natural ability to work alongside anyone made this seemingly daunting task look easy. Despite language barriers and accessibility challenges, friendships were formed and speciality coffees of all varietals and processes were offered. Dillanos had a true professional working on their behalf to source the world’s most competitive green coffees.

Fast forward 25 years, Bjorn now partners with the Director of Coffee to both select which coffees Dillanos will purchase and to oversee quality control for the millions of pounds of coffee roasted each year.

Quality control at Dillanos Coffee Roasters means ensuring highly rated flavor markers and coffee characteristics are present and meet consistency standards for all new coffees under consideration as well as the coffees available seasonally and year-round.

The best way to test a coffee’s quality remains the same: by tasting it. This is a core component of Bjorn’s role with Dillanos. Often sampling between seven to twenty different coffees each week, Bjorn spends hours roasting small batches of green coffee beans, grinding, brewing, and professionally tasting the results in a process known as “cupping”. After a full assessment, Bjorn offers his feedback to the producer or farmer and makes a decision to onboard the beans for a new limited edition coffee or perhaps as a new standard, year-round option.

Between evaluating prospective coffees and testing the hundreds of DCR branded and privately labeled coffees proudly served by our wholesale customers, Bjorn wouldn’t be surprised if they test around 10,000 cups of coffee per year.

Dillanos serves thousands of wholesale and retail customers across the nation by offering a broad spectrum of single origins, custom blends, and limited edition coffees sourced from farms large and small from every growing region on the planet.

Core Value #9: Protect Our Commitment to Quality

What’s it like to be a Green Coffee Buyer?

Seasonality plays a role in the average day of a Green Coffee Buyer. “What’s ready in Papua New Guinea will not be ready at the same time in Guatemala” Bjorn says. On average, peak harvesting seasons tend to occur in late spring to early summer and then again in early-to-mid fall.

When Bjorn’s not roasting small samples of green coffee sent to Dillanos from farms and producers across the globe, he keeps an eye on various operational departments and processes at DCR headquarters. He verifies grind selections remain accurate and consistent for his original stomping grounds, the packaging department. He monitors the organic logs, ensuring that we meet every standard for certification. And he lends a hand at any staff event, celebration, or meeting.

Bjorn lives and breathes coffee, and he reinvests back into the teams that continue to make Dillanos a beloved and trusted brand.

What’s Bjorn’s Favorite DCR Coffee?

As you might imagine, this is a tough question for Bjorn to answer. It tends to change a lot. He says that his favorite will be whatever is tasting great at the time.

With coffee preferences being about as subjective as it gets, Bjorn shares that he personally prefers the fruit-forward flavor notes found in washed and naturally processed coffees particularly from Ethiopia–the birthplace of coffee.

He also loves well-balanced Central American coffees, such as Rio Azul.

View Rio Azul on Dillanos.com

Reflecting on 25 years

Help People. Make Friends. Have Fun!

That’s the Dillanos Coffee Roasters mission statement.

When asked which resonates the most with him, Bjorn answers “Help People, first. The other two are tied for second.”

Bjorn wants to be to regarded as someone willing to help, big or small. And for those who are fortunate enough to work alongside him, a resounding “YOU ARE!” is unanimous.

After 25 years, it’s the work environment that still means the most to him. “It’s a unique, special place.” He appreciates the continued industry and business evolution that DCR presses into while still keeping the family-oriented atmosphere in tact.

“DCR is a company that focuses on community, family, and staff. They encourage you through the good stuff and support you through the bad.”

Phil Beattie, Director of Coffee, shares “I’ve known Bjorn since we were both attending Sumner High School! I’ve always said that Bjorn is the “spirit animal” of Dillanos. He has high moral character, an absolute commitment to quality, and he is always the first to lend a hand. Just a solid guy who has always lived the DCR mission to Help People, Make Friends, and Have Fun!”

Living the Dillanos mission to Have Fun!

Dillanos offers special benefits tiered to reflect the length of service, regardless of the position held.

At 25 years, Bjorn is awarded a significant amount of bonus paid time off. When asked how he hoped to use that bonus time this year, it was no surprise that his plans involved creating special moments with family.

From Disneyland to extended camping trips at his favorite places in Washington State, there are no shortage of ideas in mind.

The idea he is gravitating toward the most will take him and his family back to a special place: Neah Bay, Washington.

Bjorn’s father once participated in an archeological dig in the area, researching a major mudslide that wiped out an entire village, preserving it in exceptional condition in the process. His father identified an artifact from this dig while he was in college, and it remains on display in a museum to this day.

He wants to share this important experience with his wife and kids, ages 9 and 12. No doubt, the Mission Statement he has ascribed to for the last 25 years not far from his mind.

Help people. Make Friends. Have Fun!

Dillanos Coffee Roasters employs over 100 employees and was recently named the 5th best place to work in Washington State. As of September 2024, 22% of Dillanos staff have been employed for ten years or more. Bjorn is DCR’s longest running employee.

To view our open positions, please visit our Work Here page.

DCR is one of the best places to work in Washington

Posted on August 30, 2024 by - Stories & News

Dillanos is one of Washington’s Best Workplaces

Hosted by the Puget Sound Business Journal, Washington’s Best Workplaces honors local employers.

The contest is designed to recognize companies that do an exceptional job of cultivating an engaged staff where their value is known and celebrated.

Companies are assessed in six key areas:

  • Communication & Resources
  • Individual Needs
  • Manager Effectiveness
  • Personal Engagement
  • Team Dynamics
  • Trust in Leadership

Nominated companies are provided with an independently managed survey for each staff member to complete. Responses are tallied by Quantum Workplace. Quantum hosts Best Workplace contests for publications and business communities across the nation.

The results are in… DCR is among the best!

What this recognition means to our team

Washington’s Best Places to Work

Sponsored by the Puget Sound Business Journal, this is the first appearance by Dillanos Coffee Roasters.

“Receiving this award was a thrilling surprise. It’s an incredible honor to be recognized as one of Washington’s best places to work, especially ranking #5 in the large business category.

Walking the bases at T-Mobile Park and celebrating with my long-time colleague Enrique felt surreal, but it was also a proud moment for all of us at Dillanos Coffee Roasters. After 23 years here, I can confidently say this award reflects the genuine dedication our Co-CEOs have put into fostering a positive culture and making Dillanos a great place to work for everyone.”

– Carissa H., Chief of Staff

“I love that they allowed us to round the bases on the field at T-Mobile Park when Dillanos and our #5 ranking was announced!!

As I got to 1st base, walking with Carissa, and thinking about our friendship and all the “family members” I have gained through Dillanos.

As we got to 2nd base, I thought about how Dillanos has cared for my own family at home as well as provided a life we enjoy.

Getting to 3rd base, I thought about how grateful I am to work for a company that provides amazing opportunities for us, while helping our customers and business owners from all over fulfill their dreams and futures they can celebrate!

Then… as we arrived at home plate, I thought about the pride that David, Chris, & Howie all had and still have in the creation, growth, and most importantly in us that they all consider family. That pride is what brought us here tonight!

Today my heart was full, and my cup was overflowing with gratefulness, gratitude, and pride to be part of something that is so much more than a Best Places To Work.”

– Enrique G., Delivery Supervisor

Dillanos has deep roots in the Puget Sound area

Co-CEOs David J. Morris and Chris Heyer celebrated 30 years in 2022

A passion for entrepreneurship and a drive for success, David J. Morris set out on a venture and founded Dillanos Coffee Roasters. Dillanos, named after his oldest son Dillon, opened as an espresso cart in 1992 in front of the well-known Sunshine Mart, a convenience store located in Buckley, Washington.

The Sunshine Mart, which still stands today, was owned, and operated by Howard Heyer, David’s stepfather. Howard, or Howie as many called him, took a chance with David and his coffee cart and the two developed a business partnership.

The cart was fueled by David’s enthusiasm, Howard’s business background, and a sincere desire to offer great coffee and great service. The following year they set out and opened two more retail locations and would begin to make decisions that would shape the business for years to come.

In 1994, David’s brother, Chris Heyer, joined the family business at the age of 19 and bought into the company as a third owner. Chris had worked as an experienced barista at a coffee cart outside of a local grocery store. Together, they kicked off Dillanos Coffee Roasters as a wholesale coffee roasting operation. It wasn’t long before the brothers were soaking up information from coffee professionals throughout the country. They learned from the ground up what it takes to source high-quality green coffee, perfect nuanced roast profiles, and create balanced, smooth-tasting blends.

They were passionate about the artistry of bringing out a coffee’s inherent character with just a small nudge of time and temperature. They soon sold the retail stores and put all their energy into wholesale roasting at a new location in Sumner, Washington. As the family business continued to expand, Dillanos Coffee Roasters grew from a tiny three-person outfit to a nationally recognized roaster with more than 1,500 wholesale locations serving Dillanos Coffee across the country.

Today, Dillanos Coffee Roasters employs more than 100 enthusiastic staff members and roasts for some of the country’s most recognized specialty coffee brands.

To view our open positions, please visit our Work Here page.

Decaf Training for DCR Staff

Posted on August 13, 2024 by - Stories & News

Did you know?

One cup of brewed coffee has more caffeine than one cup of green tea, one shot of espresso, and a can of cola combined?

There are two chemical-free methods for decaffeinating coffee?

That caffeine has positive health benefits, including the reduced risk of developing certain cancers?

Thanks to two members from our professional roasting team, employees at Dillanos Coffee Roasters had a chance to learn the answers to those questions and more.

Ongoing Staff Education

One of our most important core values at Dillanos Coffee Roasters is Core Value #5: Never Stop Learning & Growing.

We put this core value into action when two of our dedicated roasters hosted a workshop for staff this summer.

Tyler and Trevor presented to their coworkers from Customer Support, Finance, Sales, Outbound, HR, and fellow roasters at our headquarters in Sumner, Washington this July. The duo taught on decaffeinated coffee.

Our staff was able to learn about the processes by which caffeine is extracted from coffee beans, the health benefits and risks of caffeine, as well as popular studies and controversial topics surrounding caffeine and decaffeination methods through this presentation.

Everyone walked away with a greater appreciation for decaf and the four different options we have available for our customers.

CORE VALUE #5: NEVER STOP LEARNING AND GROWING

We want everybody to take on an attitude of lifelong learning.
This can be done through books, classes, and stimulating conversation.
This is not just about coffee; it is about developing and growing to become your own best self.

Decafs by Dillanos

French Roast Decaf

Dark Roast. Strong, light body. Smoky aroma. Tastes of tobacco.

Mach-Ninni Decaf

Medium-dark roast. Rich, light body. Clove aroma. Nutty taste.

Omission Decaf

Medium-light roast. Crisp, full body. Molasses aroma. Tastes of maple syrup.

Swiss Water Decaf

Medium roast. Rich, full body. Floral aroma. Tastes of toasted grain.

Your Coffee Questions, Answered!

Posted on August 9, 2024 by - Coffee 101

CAFFEINE

For some, it’s the flavor. For others, the craft.

But for many of us that start our day with a cup of coffee, it’s the jolt of caffeine that drives the ritual.

Not surprisingly, the question that’s asked about as often as roast degree is “how much caffeine is in my coffee”?

And the answer is about as complex as the flavor profiles we seek.

Several factors contribute to caffeine content, such as the origin of the coffee beans, the species or varietal of the trees, and the volume of coffee used to name a few.

On average, an 8 oz serving of drip brewed coffee delivers about 96 mg of caffeine while a double shot of espresso comes in at 128 mg. That said, there are a few variables that can influence the exact amount of caffeine a particular beverage contains.

We’ve answered some of the most common questions about caffeine and other coffee-related curiosities in this post. Read below for our recommendations on proper storage techniques, the difference between single origins and blends, and even a shout out to the one of the latest trends in coffee: nitro cold brew.

So what is the biggest impact on how much caffeine is in a cup of coffee?

By far the largest impact on caffeine content is the ratio of coffee grounds to water used to produce the coffee.  

A portafilter of tamped ground beans to produce a 1 oz shot of espresso yields 64 mg of caffeine. Whereas common drip brews, which can vary from 1 to 4 ounces of coffee by weight, deliver around 96 mg of caffeine in an 8 oz cup.

This means the thin, watery stuff trying to pass for coffee indeed has far less caffeine than the so-strong-you-can-stand-a-spoon-in-it cup of Joe.

DL Lucent Mug by DCR Coffee

LIGHT ROAST VS DARK ROAST

What about light roast versus dark roast?  

This age old question has a quick answer: the difference in caffeine content based on roast is negligible.  

We did an experiment a few years ago where we took a single variety coffee from a single parcel on a farm, roasted it to a wide degree of roasts, and sent the ground coffee to a lab for testing.  

The results were quite clear that the degree of roast had a very small effect on the caffeine content. 

In explanation, caffeine has a sublimation temperature of 178℃ (352℉), which means caffeine won’t even begin roasting out of the bean until this temperature threshold is crossed.

Typically, coffee beans are above this temperature for a relatively short period of time in the roasting process. Time spent beyond the sublimation threshold is not long enough to have a major effect on the caffeine content.

DECAFFEINATED COFFEE

What About Decaf?

Decaffeinated coffee has around 97% of the caffeine removed, which means there is still about 3% of the caffeine still in the bean.  

The rule about the biggest impact on caffeine content (volume of grounds used) still applies. If you prepare a very light brew of decaf, the caffeine will be very small trace amounts.  

However, if you fill pack the filter full with decaf, you will end up with a measurable (although still small) amount of caffeine.

SHOP OUR DECAF COFFEES

WHAT ABOUT WHITE COFFEE?

For our white coffee product, we use a species of coffee called Robusta.  

Robusta is typically used as a commercial lower grade coffee, but we source a high quality version of this species for white coffee. 

On average, Robusta has double the caffeine content of the Arabica species that we use for our fully roasted coffees.  

The result is that the white coffee has double the caffeine content, but contrary to popular opinion, it is due to the beans not the roast.

Can white coffee be brewed as a drip or pour over?

To brew white coffee using a pour-over method, you can use the same technique as you would with regular coffee, but adjust the water temperature and brewing time accordingly.

For example, you might use a water temperature of around 185-190℉ and a brewing time of 2 to 3 minutes, rather than the higher temperatures and longer brewing times typically used for regular coffee.

BUY WHITE COFFEE

BLENDS VS. SINGLE ORIGINS

The main difference between a blend and a single-origin coffee is where the coffee beans come from.

Single-origin coffee comes from one specific geographic location, such as a particular farm, estate, or region. This means that all of the beans in a single-origin coffee are sourced from the same place and are likely to have similar flavor profiles based on the terroir, or the unique environmental factors that influence the coffee’s flavor (soil composition, altitude, and climate).

Single-origin coffees can be a great way to experience the unique flavors of a particular coffee-growing region and to appreciate the nuances of different varieties of coffee.

VIEW SINGLE ORIGIN COFFEES

In contrast, a coffee blend is made by combining beans from multiple locations or regions.

Coffee blends are often created to achieve a specific flavor profile or to balance out the flavors of different beans. Blends can include beans that are sourced from different countries, regions, or even different roasts of the same bean.

By combining different beans, coffee roasters can create blends that have a unique and consistent flavor profile, which can be appealing to coffee drinkers who prefer a particular taste or style of coffee.

VIEW COFFEE BLENDS

ARABICA VS ROBUSTA

Does DCR Use Arabica or Robusta Coffee Beans?

Dillanos Coffee Roasters exclusively uses Arabica coffee beans in our coffee blends and single-origin offerings.

Arabica beans are known for their higher quality and more nuanced flavor profile compared to Robusta beans, which are often used in lower-quality coffee blends.

By using Arabica beans, Dillanos is able to offer coffee that is rich, flavorful, and aromatic. 

The two exceptions are White Coffee and Double Dark where we add Robusta to increase the caffeine content.

STORING COFFEE

What is the best way to store coffee?

The best way to store coffee is to keep it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, away from light and heat.

Exposure to air, moisture, light, and heat can all affect the flavor and freshness of coffee, so it’s important to take steps to protect your coffee beans from these factors.

There’s a common myth that coffee retains its freshness longer when stored in the freezer. In fact, freezing coffee will actually cause it go to stale faster. Whether whole bean or pre-ground, moisture (and odor!) can be absorbed by the coffee, which affects both freshness and flavor.

Here are some tips for storing coffee:

Use an airtight container: Oxygen can cause coffee to go stale, so it’s important to store your coffee in an airtight container to prevent exposure to air.

Keep it in a cool, dry place: Heat and moisture can also affect the quality of coffee, so it’s best to store your coffee in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or cupboard.

Avoid light: Light can cause coffee to break down and lose its flavor, so it’s best to store your coffee in a dark place, such as a cabinet or opaque container.

How long will coffee stay fresh in a sealed bag?

The shelf life of coffee can vary depending on several factors, including the type of coffee, the roast level, the packaging, and storage conditions.

However, as a general rule of thumb, whole bean coffee that is stored in a sealed bag or container can stay fresh for about 3 to 4 weeks, while ground coffee can start to lose its flavor and freshness within 1 to 2 weeks.

COLD BREW VS. NITRO COLD BREW

What is the difference between regular and nitro cold brew?

Regular cold brew is made by steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water for an extended period of time, usually between 12 to 24 hours. This results in a concentrated coffee that is typically diluted with water or milk and served over ice.

Nitro cold brew, on the other hand, is cold brew coffee that has been infused with nitrogen gas, which gives it a smooth, creamy texture and a frothy head that’s similar to a Guinness beer.

The nitrogen gas is typically added to the cold brew coffee using a special tap system, which results in a unique and refreshing coffee experience.

PRO TIP: Nitro cold brew makes the most incredible ice cream floats!

VIEW OUR COLD BREW COFFEES
Sources

How Much Caffeine is in My Coffee? National Coffee Association 02/2016

Caffeine content for coffee, tea, soda, and more… Mayo Clinic 04/2022

How is Coffee Decaffeinated? Sprudge.com 01/2022

Get the Facts About Decaffeinated Coffee… National Coffee Association

Peppermint Bliss Recipe

Posted on November 30, 2023 by - Brewing Coffee

Peppermint Bliss Latte Recipe

Indulge in the festive magic with our Peppermint Bliss Latte!

Crafted with a harmonious blend of B22 Peppermint Syrup, a touch of B22 Almond Syrup, bold espresso, and velvety milk, this latte is a symphony of holiday flavors that will transport you to a winter wonderland with every sip.

Get ready to savor the perfect balance of minty freshness and nutty warmth in this seasonal delight. It’s not just a latte; it’s a sip of holiday joy!

Ingredients for an 12 oz latte:

Don’t have an espresso machine? This recipe is easy to modify by swapping espresso for brewed coffee and steamed milk for a splash of cream.

PS: Both of these syrups are available in sugar-free!

Barista 22 Peppermint Syrup

Get ready to sleigh your holiday beverage game with Barista 22 Peppermint Syrup – the ultimate festive sidekick! This syrup isn’t your average Joe; it’s a flavor wizard, turning your usual coffee, hot chocolate, or even cocktails into holiday masterpieces.

Picture this: a burst of refreshing peppermint magic that takes your taste buds on a joyride. The holidays are all about making memories, and with Barista 22 Peppermint Syrup, every sip becomes a celebration. It’s like adding a sprinkle of holiday cheer to your cup, striking the perfect balance between sweetness and minty freshness.

Whether you’re a home barista extraordinaire or just want to up your festive drink game, this syrup is your golden ticket. So, let the festivities flow, one delicious sip at a time, and let Barista 22 Peppermint Syrup be the star of your holiday sips!

Sip, sip. Hooray!

Buy B22 Peppermint Syrup Today

Insulated Drip Brewer Starter Set

Posted on November 30, 2023 by - Coffee 101

Insulated Drip Brewer Starter Set

An insulated drip brewer offers several compelling reasons for coffee enthusiasts to consider it as their brewing method of choice.

The insulation feature helps maintain a consistent and optimal brewing temperature throughout the entire process… and after brewing is complete.

Unlike traditional drip brewers that may have warming plates that can lead to overcooking and a burnt taste, the insulation in these brewers keeps the coffee at an ideal temperature without compromising its quality.

To get started using an insulated drip brewer, we recommend these items:

An insulated drip brewer offers temperature stability, prolonged heat retention, and convenient programmable features, making it a compelling choice for those who prioritize a consistently excellent cup of coffee and value the convenience of modern brewing technology.

They run a little more than regular coffee makers, but convenience that doesn’t compromise quality is worth the investment.

Buy Dillons Blend
Buy Insulated Drip Brewer

Breville Thermal Precision Brewer

Bonavita One-Touch Brewer

Bodum Bistro Burr Grinder

Dillons Blend

Chemex Starter Set

Posted on November 30, 2023 by - Coffee 101

Chemex Starter Set

Choosing a Chemex over a regular drip brew coffee maker introduces a distinct and rewarding shift in the coffee brewing experience. The Chemex’s manual pour-over method provides a level of control that surpasses the automated process of a traditional drip brewer.

With a Chemex, you have the ability to precisely regulate the water temperature and pouring rate, allowing you to customize the brewing process according to your coffee preferences.

The thick Chemex filters remove sediments and oils, resulting in an exceptionally clean cup that highlights the nuanced flavors of the coffee beans.

If this sounds like what your mornings have been missing, then here are the items we recommend using to get started using a Chemex:

For those who are curious about flavor control and a hands-on approach to their coffee journey, the Chemex stands out as a compelling choice that elevates the art of brewing.

Buy Chemex Brewer
Buy Rio Azul

Chemex Brewer

Chemex Filters

Rio Azul

Electric Kettles

French Press Starter Set

Posted on November 30, 2023 by - Coffee 101

French Press Starter Set

We love a good French Press.

Many of our coffees love to be brewed by French Press. (You can click here to see them, if you’d like to explore options available!) Even our Co-CEO Chris Heyer brews his morning coffee every day with one.

Most of us brew coffee using a regular drip coffee maker at home. And while it does the trick, when the time comes to take the step into the world of alternative brewing methods, French Press is the method many go to first.

If you’re looking to get started (or know someone who is!), then these are the products we recommend:

Buy Green Planet Coffee
Buy Special Dark Coffee

Hydro Flask French Press

Bodum French Press

Bodum Bistro Burr Grinder

Green Planet

Special Dark

New Mugs

Cold Brew Starter Set

Posted on November 30, 2023 by - Coffee 101

Cold Brew Starter Sets

As cold brew gains popularity, more and more coffee lovers are brewing at home. If you or someone you know is curious about how to get started, our Starter Set has you covered.

These are the products we’d recommend:

The two coffees we’re highlighting have been developed specifically for the cold brew process. Paradox Blend wins all kinds of awards in the industry and is often used in various partnerships, including this one with Pursuit Distilling Co.

Elevation Cold Brew is a blend of beans sourced from Central and South Americas and makes a mean cup of cold brew. It has a crisp, full body with hazelnut aroma and milk chocolate flavor notes. Seriously, delish.

Grind Selection:

We have a specific grind option for cold brew. When choosing your DCR coffee, scroll through the grinds available and select Toddy / Cold Brew to ensure the ideal texture for this home system.

Cold brew requires a slightly coarser grind than standard drip brewers, so we’ve created this grind option for those of you brewing cold brew from the comfort of your own kitchen.

Buy Elevation
Buy Paradox

Toddy Cold Brew System

Elevation Cold Brew

Paradox Blend

Home Espresso Starter Set

Posted on November 30, 2023 by - Coffee 101

Home Espresso Starter Set

When brewing espresso at home, there are a few essentials we recommend having on hand:

For coffee selections, we have two in particular that we’d like you to try:

Lucent

Lucent is a light roast coffee that’s been a staff favorite for many years. In fact, the 2019 US Barista Champion, Sam Spillman, used Lucent as her featured espresso for the competition.

It has a crisp, full body with a dried fruit aroma and flavor notes of blackberry.

Ava Blonde

Ava Blonde is also a popular choice for staff picks. It’s excellent when brewed as espresso.

A crisp, light body with almond aroma and flavor notes of malt and chocolate are accentuated by the medium-light roast.

Grind Selection:

We have a specific grind option for home espresso. When choosing your DCR coffee, scroll through the grinds available and select Home Espresso (coarse) to ensure the ideal texture for your machine.

Home espresso machines require a slightly coarser grind than commercial machines, so we’ve created this grind option for those of you brewing espresso from the comfort of your own kitchen.

Buy Lucent
Buy Ava Blonde

Steaming Pitchers

Espresso Thermometer

DCR Shot Glass

Twisted Bar Spoon

Lucent

Ava Blonde