After a brief hiatus due to an unexpected breakdown, the Gene Cafe roaster is chugging along filling Christmas orders. I think Joel finds joy in asking, “Are you done yet?” Which is pretty similar to me asking when he is going to be done with the calendars. Well, he has a well-deserved break this year but hopefully he will be back up and running next year. Too much pressure!

A few photos of the process.

First, the green coffee beans I use are typically of South American origin and are of the Arabica type (as opposed to Robusta.) I purchase from suppliers in MA and LA in quantities from 1/2 lb samplers to 5# quantities. I try to stick to Organic with Rainforest Alliance and Smithsonian Bird-Friendly certifications.

The roasting process takes around 15 – 17 minutes with a 15 minute cool down and the unit has a capacity of 1/2 lb of raw beans.

Unroasted “green” beans.

Final product – dark roast.

On the way to you soon … Maybe.