First time behind the roaster, and the results? A mix of triumph and curiosity. You preheated to 235°C for five minutes, then let the beans take over—only to realize the green was gone by 6:15. A quick temperature hike to 245°C followed, but first crack? You’re not sure if it was 10 minutes or a trick of the light. You stopped at 12 minutes, cooled in a sieve, and now you’re questioning whether this was medium or flirting with medium-dark. The math doesn’t lie: 250g in, 209g out. A 16.4% loss—more than the average 12–15% for a medium roast.
The Gene Cafe CBR-101’s precision shines here, but so does its potential for misinterpretation. At 245°C, you’re flirting with the edge of medium-dark territory. The roast curve suggests a slow climb, but the density loss hints at underdevelopment. If you’re chasing a true medium, consider dropping the cutoff to 11:30 next time. The difference between a balanced cup and a slightly under-extracted one is often just a few minutes.
This roast reveals a common pitfall: trusting the machine over the beans. The CBR-101’s data is clear, but interpreting it requires intuition. First crack isn’t a strict timer—it’s a signal. You’re not just measuring time; you’re gauging the beans’ response. A 245°C roast might yield a bold, chocolatey cup, but it’s not the same as a cleaner, brighter medium.
So what’s the takeaway? Adjust your roast window, trust your palate, and let the machine guide you, not dictate. The CBR-101 is a tool, not a crutch. And if you’re still unsure? Ask yourself: What does the cup say about your approach?
Share your wins and wobbles below.
What’s your first roast story? Share your wins and wobbles below.
Questions & Answers
Is the Gene Cafe CBR-101 worth the price?
The CBR-101 offers good value with its features and build quality, though some find it pricey for basic needs.
What are the key features of the CBR-101?
It includes a 10.1-inch display, 4G LTE, dual SIM, and a 3,000mAh battery.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
