Cup

The Hidden Power of Paper Filters in Coffee

The Hidden Power of Paper Filters in Coffee

Pour yourself a cup for this one: The paper filter in your coffee setup is more than just a barrier—it’s a silent architect of flavor. Once a simple sieve between grounds and water, these filters now dictate extraction speed, clarity, and the balance of sweetness, acidity, and body. “Advanced paper filters have become one of the most influential physical variables in manual brewing,” says Lakis Psomas, a Swedish Barista & Brewers Cup Champion. “They shape how oils, sugars, and acids pass into the final cup, directly affecting mouthfeel and flavor balance.” The evolution of filters has unlocked a new era…
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A Community Brewed in Minneapolis: The Heart of Raise the Bar’s Level Up Event

A Community Brewed in Minneapolis: The Heart of Raise the Bar’s Level Up Event

In the heart of Minneapolis, a coffee event did more than brew beans—it wove a tapestry of connection, skill, and purpose. Raise the Bar’s Level Up event, held over three days at Mill City Roasters’ headquarters, became a microcosm of what coffee communities can achieve when they prioritize people over profit. More than 80 baristas, educators, and volunteers gathered to learn, collaborate, and celebrate the craft, proving that the specialty coffee world thrives on shared ambition and mutual respect. The event’s magic lay in its balance of rigor and warmth. Workshops on sensory calibration, like the Cupping 101 class led…
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Savor the Season with Our Curated List of 2025 Holiday Coffee Gifts for Enthusiasts

Savor the Season with Our Curated List of 2025 Holiday Coffee Gifts for Enthusiasts

The holiday season is here, and it's time to spread joy to your coffee-loving friends and family. From new roasters to innovative brewing equipment, we have curated a collection of gifts that are perfect for every budget. Here's our guide to the best coffee gifts of 2025. Stocking Fillers: Start small with thoughtful stocking stuffers. Explore new flavors and origins by introducing someone to a new roaster, such as Spojka Roastery in Slovakia or Shavi Coffee Roasters in Georgia. For UK coffee drinkers, Pact Coffee offers advent calendars, while Fresh Roasted Coffee caters to North American consumers with a wide…
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