If you’re chasing precision in your roast, this log is a masterclass in what not to do. A user’s first attempt with a Costa Rica Pérez Zeledón washed bean reveals a classic rookie mistake: hitting first crack too early. The roast started with a preheat at F9/P9, then dropped to F8/P4 for charging. Yellowing emerged around 2:00, aroma hit at 2:30, and internal temps climbed to 383°F. By 3:00, temps hit 420°F, and the bean turned brown by 4:00. The first crack arrived at 5:30, followed by a rushed development phase. The result? A 10% weight loss and a roast that felt hurried.
The key issue here is the timing of first crack. Hitting FC too soon means the bean didn’t fully develop its potential. The drying phase, which builds body and acidity, was cut short. The Maillard reaction—responsible for caramelization and flavor depth—also got rushed. Instead of letting the bean absorb heat gradually, the roaster pushed too hard, leading to an underdeveloped profile. The fix? Slow down the heat. Stretch the drying and Maillard phases by reducing the rate of temperature rise. This gives the bean time to unlock its complexity without scorching.
Weight loss is another red flag. A 10% drop suggests the roast didn’t spend enough time in the development phase. While some weight loss is normal, it’s a sign the bean was pulled too soon. The user’s decision to drop to F5/P5 for 1 minute of development was a start, but two minutes of cooling afterward felt like a last-minute fix. To refine this, focus on balancing development time with cooling. Let the bean rest longer after FC to let flavors settle, then cool gradually to preserve roast character.
The takeaway? First crack isn’t the finish line—it’s the starting gun. Use it as a guide, not a deadline. Prioritize even heat distribution and patience over speed. And remember: a great roast isn’t about hitting milestones, it’s about letting the bean tell its story.
Share your first log or lesson learned in the comments.
What’s your biggest roast mistake? Share your first log or lesson learned in the comments.
Questions & Answers
How to respond to a first roast?
Acknowledge the roast with humor, keep it light, and avoid taking it personally. A witty reply can defuse tension and show confidence without escalating the situation.
What if the first roast is mean?
Stay calm, don’t engage in negativity. If it’s harmful, walk away or address it respectfully. Prioritize your well-being over trying to win an argument.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
