Wood roasting has been used for centuries to bring out the best in coffee beans, yet there are still plenty of misconceptions about this traditional method. Some believe it leads to a smoky taste, others think it’s inconsistent.
The truth? Our wood roasting technique is extremely unique, largely due to our custom-built roaster which makes our process quite different to the traditional wood roasting process. So we have decided it is time to clear up some myths about wood roasted coffee.
MYTH 1. WOOD ROASTING IS INCONSISTENT
Coffee roasters are known to be met with challenges such as controlling temperature, and if using a direct heat source – burning and tipping the beans because of no air flow.
We have overcome the challenge of wood roasting being inconsistent with an air roasting approach through our custom-built, fully temperature-controlled wood fire coffee roaster. Our roaster uses enhanced data logging technology that actively regulates the method of roasting.
When using an air roasting approach, green (raw) coffee beans are roasted by roughly 60% convection heat, 30% conduction and 10% radiation heat. This soft convection heat penetrates easily within the raw beans to roast coffee evenly inside out.
MYTH 2. SMOKE INFLUENCES THE FLAVOUR
We use an air roasting approach and utilise the dry heat to roast our beans so our beans do not make direct contact with the fire or smoke, this eliminates any smoke from influencing the flavour! The external furnace sits at 700 degrees (while smoke only burns at 350 degrees) and from there we suck the hot air into the roaster which results in no smoky flavours influencing the coffee.
Our roaster is able to utilise the dry heat to caramelise the beans and draw out the inherent flavours of the high quality beans we source. This means, we can deliver a roast that’s more consistent, cleaner & sweeter.
MYTH 3. WOOD ROASTING CAN'T BE SUSTAINABLE
There’s a belief that wood roasting contributes to deforestation and carbon emissions, but sustainably managed wood roasting can be an eco-friendly choice. We source our wood from sustainable forests and use solar power and recycle coffee husks. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels, wood roasting can actually be a more sustainable alternative to gas-powered roasting.
THE BOTTOM LINE
When done right, wood roasting provides a clean, balanced cup without any burnt or smoky aftertaste. So, the next time you sip on a wood roasted brew, you can appreciate the craftsmanship, tradition, and skill that went into creating it.
Looking to try expertly crafted wood roasted coffee? Experience the difference for yourself and taste the rich, smooth flavours that wood roasting can deliver. Shop our full coffee range today.