Home Roasting

Returning to the Roaster With Happy Mug Espresso

Returning to the Roaster With Happy Mug Espresso

⏱ 1 min read The Short Version Reclaiming the art of home roasting requires more than just technical skill; it demands a recalibration of sensory intuition and thermal rhythm. Precision is everything, especially when timing that critical second crack to unlock chocolatey depth without crossing into carbonization. In This Article Finding the Thermal RhythmPrecision at the Second Crack Re-engaging with home roasting after a hiatus since the early 2020s feels less like a technical exercise and more like a reconnection with sensory intuition. My recent attempt involved two twelve-ounce batches of Happy Mug Espresso Blend, a tentative return to the…
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Skywalker V2: A Home Roaster’s First Step into Specialty Coffee

Skywalker V2: A Home Roaster’s First Step into Specialty Coffee

⏱ 1 min read The Short Version The Skywalker V2 is a beginner-friendly roaster that sparks curiosity and practice, but its limitations mean it’s a stepping stone, not a final destination in specialty coffee. In This Article The Skywalker V2: A Starting Point, Not a DestinationLearning the Craft: Beyond the Machine The verdict is in: The Skywalker V2 is a gateway to the world of specialty coffee, but not the final destination. It’s a tool that transforms curiosity into practice, offering a balance of affordability and functionality for those just starting out. However, its true value lies not in its…
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