Aoarashi

Colombia’s Coffee Market: Record Output, Rising Prices, and a Shift in Trade Dynamics

Colombia’s Coffee Market: Record Output, Rising Prices, and a Shift in Trade Dynamics

Coffee lovers, wine enthusiasts, tea devotees—Colombia’s coffee market is in a rare moment of sustained strength. The USDA FAS report reveals production is still near record levels, even as output dips slightly from last year. With 13.8 million bags forecast for 2025/26, Colombia remains a powerhouse, though signs of fatigue are emerging. The 2024/25 surge, fueled by aggressive pruning and a weak La Niña, has left plantations struggling to maintain momentum. Prolonged rains now threaten flowering, hinting at a potential slowdown. Yet, the numbers tell a different story: exports are still robust, with the U.S. absorbing nearly 40% of the…
Read More
Mariah Vella’s Coffee Philosophy: How Malta’s Café Became a Community Hub

Mariah Vella’s Coffee Philosophy: How Malta’s Café Became a Community Hub

Here’s what you need to know: Mariah Vella isn’t just running a café—she’s curating an experience. As store manager at COFFEE & strangers in Malta, she’s turned a small space into a sanctuary for connection, creativity, and curiosity. Her approach blends Italian influence with Maltese grit, crafting a place where coffee isn’t just a drink but a catalyst for meaningful interactions. Mariah’s journey began in Milan, where she discovered the quiet power of a well-made espresso. The café there became her daily anchor, teaching her that coffee is about more than beans—it’s about the rituals, the people, and the stories…
Read More
Dekáf Coffee Roasters: The Game Changer in Specialty Decaf Coffee

Dekáf Coffee Roasters: The Game Changer in Specialty Decaf Coffee

Dekáf Coffee Roasters, a small operation based out of Salem, Massachusetts, is turning heads and shaking up the specialty coffee world by making decaf their primary focus. Anil Mezini and Khanh Nguyen are not just another boutique brand; they're redefining what it means to enjoy high-quality coffee without caffeine. Their approach is revolutionary, and it all starts with the roasting process. Dekáf uses a Ghibli R15 for decaf exclusively, while the Loring Kestrel is reserved for low-caffeine profiles. This dedication to decaf is not a compromise; it's an operational choice that sets them apart from the industry norm. With over…
Read More
Why Matsu no Shiro by Kanbayashi Shunsho Stands Out as a Daily Usucha/Latte Choice

Why Matsu no Shiro by Kanbayashi Shunsho Stands Out as a Daily Usucha/Latte Choice

If you're on the hunt for an affordable, high-quality matcha suitable for both usucha and latte, look no further than Matsu no Shiro by Kanbayashi Shunsho. This tea has been my go-to, surpassing Ippodo’s Ikuyo and MK’s Aoarashi in terms of value and flavor. In 2025, a series of price increases pushed Matsu no Shiro to the front as the most cost-effective option among these three entry-level choices, nearly half the price for 40g compared to Ikuyo and Aoarashi. Despite this difference, the quality remains uncompromised. As an usucha, Matsu no Shiro offers a well-balanced profile that is both mellow…
Read More