"A 'Black Swan' is an event so improbable that when it occurs it changes everything."

Why the espresso blend we never expected to make developed a cult following
Our Black Swan Espresso came to life in 2018 when a client asked for a darker espresso blend. Always up for a challenge, but unsure if we could deliver on a darker roast that still tasted great, I started testing new roast profiles. When I had my first cappuccino with what would later be called Black Swan, I said aloud, "Oh my god." It was my Black Swan moment.

Since then, the blend has taken on a bit of a following, and its fan base continues to grow each week. It's easy to see why, considering what comprises the majority of dark roasts on the market.

Why dark roasts often taste have that "blegh" taste
The industry undervalues dark roasts and the customers who enjoy them. Used as an opportunity to pass off coffees that are so old or full of defects that they wouldn't otherwise sell, dark roasts usually aren't given much care or attention. The roast profile might as well just be "set power to 100% and take a smoke break." Yikes.
Now, imagine cappuccinos that taste like rich hot chocolate. Straight espresso full of silky dark chocolate and amaretto. Full bodied drip coffee with smooth dark chocolate and fig. The aroma of baking spices wafting through the house.

Why Black Swan is different
It's intentionally sourced:
Since 2018, we've been partnering with the same producers in Brazil to bring in naturally low acidity, sweet, defect-free coffees. Because of their unique approach, we're able to bring in fresh lots throughout the year.
It's meticulously roasted:
We're just as detailed with Black Swan as we are with our single origin coffees. Low acidity green coffees allow for a lighter touch while keeping the same overall flavor profile. Expect a fuller, smoother cup, without the bitter, smoky flavors.
All of this means...
It's easy to get great results.
Black Swan is incredibly consistent and tasty even if you don't have top tier equipment. No constant dialing in. No waste. No mess. Just good results each time.

Recommended shot parameters:

We have found that a 1:2 ratio works best for Black Swan Espresso (that is one part coffee to two parts water).
We aim for 18g in and 36g out or 18g dry grounds and 36g liquid.
To achieve the 36g out, you will want to “stop” the shot when the scale reads approximately 34g.
You will also want to time your shots along with weighing them out. We have found that anywhere between 32-38 seconds is ideal for Black Swan.
As you are dialing in, you will need to slowly adjust the grind settings on the grinder to achieve these parameters.

Notes from the team: These brew ratios and recipes are not meant to be prescriptive but rather a helpful guide to get you started. Our goal as a company is to provide a stepping stone to make brewing coffee a little less scary. We are here for you and we know you got this! Play around with ratios, pull a lot of shots, have fun with it, and if you run out of coffee - we will always have another bag ready for you!

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Shipping Schedule
We roast Monday - Wednesday and ship USPS priority. Orders placed after 12pm on Wednesday will be filled immediately if we have the coffee on hand. Otherwise, your order will be roasted & shipped the following week.