Coffee roasting is an art, a delicate process that transforms green coffee beans into the flavorful brew we enjoy every morning. While you're drinking the best coffee from the best veteran-owned coffee company having an understanding how coffee roasting works can enhance your appreciation for every cup.

In this article, we'll walk through the essentials of coffee roasting at Aerial Resupply Coffee, explain our hot air roasting method, how temperatures create blends that yield the perfect cup, as well as the importance of packaging and the best practices keeping coffee fresh.

What is Coffee Roasting?

Roasting is the process of heating green coffee beans to bring out their flavor and aroma. Raw coffee beans are initially soft and odorless, but roasting activates their chemical properties, creating the distinct flavors that coffee lovers crave. There are various roasting techniques and temperature ranges used depending on the desired outcome.

At Aerial Resupply Coffee the roasting process is approached with precision to create the best coffee for those who want a robust and flavorful experience. With blends that honor the spirit of service, our blends are a favorite among coffee enthusiasts looking for bold and balanced profiles.

Coffee Roasting Techniques

There are several roasting techniques, each yielding different flavor profiles and intensities. Here are the most common:

Light Roast

Lightly roasted beans are heated to about 356°F to 401°F (180°C to 205°C). The result is a bright, fruity flavor with a mild acidity. Light roast coffee retains much of the original characteristics of the bean, making it perfect for those who prefer a gentler coffee with vibrant notes ideal for mornings when you need a gentle yet invigorating start to your day. Explore our light roast blends here.

Medium Roast

Medium roast is one of the most popular choices, typically roasted between 410°F and 428°F (210°C and 220°C). This roast is often called “city roast” or “American roast” and strikes a balance between acidity and sweetness, with a fuller body and more complex flavors. Medium roasts are smooth and slightly sweet, making them the best coffee for everyday drinkers.

Aerial Resupply Coffee offers medium roasts that provide a balanced taste with just the right amount of acidity. For those who prefer a well-rounded cup, this is the perfect option.

Dark Roast

Dark roasts are roasted between 464°F and 482°F (240°C to 250°C), producing a bolder, more intense flavor. With notes of chocolate and a slightly smoky finish, dark roasts are less acidic but have a rich depth. This roast is preferred by coffee drinkers who enjoy stronger, full-bodied brews.

Our dark roasts are featured in our patriotic coffee blends, designed for those who love a robust and powerful coffee. Our company takes great pride in crafting these bold flavors that reflect the strength and dedication of service members.

Espresso Roasting Method

Espresso roast refers to coffee beans roasted specifically for brewing espresso. These beans are typically roasted to a medium-dark or dark roast, with temperatures ranging between 437°F and 464°F (225°C to 240°C). This roasting process develops bold flavors with low acidity and creates the rich, full-bodied profile essential for espresso drinks.

The espresso roast enhances deep caramel and chocolate notes, making it ideal for espresso machines. Since espresso extraction is fast and intense, the roast needs to withstand high pressure and deliver a concentrated flavor.

Aerial Resupply Coffee offers espresso roasts ensuring the ideal balance of strength and flavor for espresso lovers who enjoy robust shots or espresso-based drinks like lattes and macchiatos.

 

Coffee Roasting Methods and Temperature

Different methods of roasting can impact the overall flavor and quality of the coffee. Here at Aerial Resupply Coffee, we utilize the hot air method. In hot air roasting, the beans are roasted by circulating hot air through them, leading to an even roast. This method is known for creating a cleaner cup of coffee with a more distinct flavor profile. For lighter, brighter flavors, hot air roasting is often the preferred technique. 

The Importance of Temperature Control

 

The key to creating the perfect coffee lies in controlling the roasting temperature. Whether it's a light, medium, or dark roast, each degree makes a difference in the flavor, aroma, and texture of the final product.

At Aerial Resupply Coffee, our team carefully monitor each roast, ensuring that the temperature is just right for every batch. This precision leads to the creation of the best coffee blends, offering a perfect balance of body, flavor, and aroma.

First Crack and Second Crack

During roasting, there are two distinct sounds known as the “first crack” and “second crack,” which signal different stages of the roasting process.

• First Crack: Occurs around 385°F to 401°F (196°C to 205°C). The beans expand, and the first audible pop signifies the beginning of a light roast.
• Second Crack: Happens around 435°F to 446°F (224°C to 230°C). This sound indicates a medium to dark roast, where the coffee’s sugars begin to caramelize, and oils emerge on the surface.

Understanding these stages helps roasters craft specific roasts that suit a variety of tastes.

Packaging Whole Bean Coffee

Once the roasting process is complete, how coffee is packaged plays a crucial role in preserving its freshness and flavor. Whole bean coffee, especially, requires proper packaging to ensure that the beans maintain their quality until they are ready to be ground and brewed.

Importance of Freshness in Packaging

Oxygen is the enemy of freshly roasted coffee, and exposure can cause beans to go stale. We ensure our whole bean coffee is packed in airtight, one-way valve bags. This special valve allows the coffee to release gases (like carbon dioxide) without letting oxygen in, keeping the coffee fresh for an extended period.

For customers who prefer to grind their coffee beans just before brewing to experience the full depth of flavors, Aerial Resupply Coffee's packaging guarantees that the best coffee is delivered, fresh and flavorful.

Grinding Coffee: Why It Matters

Grinding coffee beans just before brewing is one of the most important steps to creating a perfect cup. The grind size impacts the extraction process, which ultimately affects the flavor, aroma, and strength of the coffee.

Types of Coffee Grinds

• Coarse Grind: Ideal for French press and cold brew methods, a coarse grind produces larger particles that allow water to filter through slowly, resulting in a rich and bold flavor.
• Medium Grind: Used for drip coffee makers, this grind is the most common for everyday coffee. The particles are slightly finer, allowing for a balanced extraction process.
• Fine Grind: Used for espresso, this grind size allows for a quick extraction, producing a strong and concentrated coffee shot with a crema-rich top.

Aerial Resupply Coffee offers both pre-ground and whole bean options for all our blends, catering to coffee lovers who prefer different brewing methods. For those who grind their own beans, purchasing whole beans ensures that you get the freshest cup possible every time.

How to Store Ground Coffee

Once coffee is ground, it begins to lose its freshness much faster than whole beans. It's essential to store ground coffee in an airtight container and keep it in a cool, dark place to preserve its quality. However, for the freshest experience, we recommend grinding only what you need for each brew.

Why Choose Aerial Resupply Coffee?

Aerial Resupply Coffee stands out not only for its superior roasting techniques but also for its commitment to supporting the veteran community. Our patriotic coffee and signature gourmet blends embody the spirit of service and dedication, ensuring that every cup reflects quality, tradition, and pride.

From carefully sourced beans to expertly crafted roasts, Aerial Resupply Coffee offers some of the best coffee available today. Whether you prefer a smooth medium roast or a bold dark roast, their offerings are sure to satisfy every palate. Plus, with their emphasis on freshness through premium packaging and options for whole beans or pre-ground coffee, you're guaranteed a top-notch coffee experience every time.

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About Aerial Resupply Coffee:

Aerial Resupply Coffee is a veteran owned business dedicated to providing high-quality, premium coffee to those who need it most. Whether you're on the front lines or at home, our coffee is crafted to fuel your day and lift your spirits.