When I explain our meticulous methods for crafting artisanal coffee, customers often say, “That’s a lot of work. What keeps you motivated?” I think of the hours it takes to select the ripest coffee cherries from every harvest. Or remember Mom’s instructions for drying honey coffee by hand: Rake the beans every 20 minutes to … Continue reading
When you see Pete Licata, what comes to mind? ‘Dat local kine’ barista guy from Kansas? ‘The Beard?’ Not me. I think of a quiet drive up to Rusty’s Hawaiian farm in March. That’s when I tagged along with Pete to get a peek behind the prep for the 2011 U.S. Barista Championship. Pete was … Continue reading

