Bourbon

Mastering the Roast: Gesha and Red Bourbon for Filter Coffee

Mastering the Roast: Gesha and Red Bourbon for Filter Coffee

This might just change your routine: You’ve got Gesha and Red Bourbon in your hands, and the question isn’t if you’ll roast them differently—it’s how. These beans are like two sides of a coin: Gesha’s ethereal clarity vs. Red Bourbon’s bold, syrupy richness. Both demand precision, but their paths to greatness diverge sharply. Start with Gesha. This is the bean that whispers, not shouts. Its origin in Panama or Colombia means it’s often delicate, with citrusy acidity and floral undertones. Roast it too dark, and you’ll mute its signature brightness. Aim for a light to medium roast—around 190–205°C for 15–20…
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El Salvador’s Coffee Revolution: African Varieties Redefine the Specialty Scene

El Salvador’s Coffee Revolution: African Varieties Redefine the Specialty Scene

El Salvador’s coffee scene is undergoing a quiet revolution. While Bourbon and Pacamara have long been the pillars of its identity, a new wave of African-origin varieties is reshaping the landscape. From Gesha’s floral sharpness to SL28’s blackcurrant acidity, these beans are not just diversifying flavor profiles—they’re redefining the country’s place in the global specialty market. But behind the buzz lies a delicate balance of tradition, innovation, and the challenges of scaling these rare beans. For decades, El Salvador’s reputation has been built on its volcanic soils and the sweet, balanced profiles of Bourbon and Pacamara. Yet, as demand for…
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Bourbon Barrel-Aged Wine: A Marketing Move with a Rich History

Bourbon Barrel-Aged Wine: A Marketing Move with a Rich History

There’s something brewing in the world of wine—literally. Bourbon barrel-aged wine has surged in popularity, turning once-ordinary bottles into must-have collectibles. But is this trend a clever marketing play or a genuine evolution in winemaking? The answer lies in the intersection of tradition, innovation, and the alchemy of oak. For decades, distillers have used bourbon barrels to age spirits, but wine has long relied on standard oak barrels for aging. The modern twist? Winemakers like Fetzer Vineyards and Robert Mondavi are now using bourbon barrels to craft wines like Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. The result? A richer, sweeter profile with…
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Unraveling the Mystery of Unevenly Roasted Bourbon Caturra Beans on a Gene Cafe

Unraveling the Mystery of Unevenly Roasted Bourbon Caturra Beans on a Gene Cafe

If you're struggling to get your Bourbon Caturra beans from 88grains to roast evenly on a Gene Cafe, you're not alone. This conundrum has left many coffee enthusiasts scratching their heads, especially when compared to their cost-effective Costa Rican counterparts. Let's delve into the unique characteristics of Bourbon Caturra that might be causing your roasting woes. Bourbon Caturra beans are a popular variety in Central America due to their bright acidity and sweet flavor notes. However, they require more attention during the roasting process compared to Costa Rican beans. This is primarily because of their small size and dense structure,…
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