Did you know that over 2 billion cups of coffee are consumed around the world every day? At Blackwell Coffee Co., we see each cup as more than just a beverage. It’s a story—one shaped by culture, geography, and tradition. Recently, I had the opportunity to experience coffee culture firsthand in some of the most diverse regions: the Middle East, Chicago, and New York. The journey opened my eyes to how different cultures approach coffee, and I returned home with more than just memories—I came back with new ideas for our next line of roasts.
**Middle East: Coffee as Tradition**
In the Middle East, coffee isn’t just something you drink—it’s an integral part of daily life. During my visit, I spent a lot of time with extended family, and every meal, whether lunch or dinner, was followed by Turkish-style coffee. It’s dark, bold, and rich, served in small cups with a thick, syrupy consistency. Conversations would stretch on as we sipped, reinforcing the idea that coffee here is about community and connection.
It was fascinating to see how people in the region prefer their coffee roasted to an almost black, smoky profile. The intense heat meant that iced coffee is also incredibly popular—strong brews poured over ice, often with a hint of citrus. This combination of dark roast and refreshing elements is something that will be reflected in our upcoming blends, bringing a piece of that Middle Eastern coffee experience to your home.
**New York & Chicago: Coffee for the Hustle**
In contrast, the cities of Chicago and New York have a completely different approach. Coffee here fuels the hustle. Quality still matters, but it’s about convenience and quick access. I visited a food festival in New York that closed down the Avenue of the Americas, where the streets were alive with vibrant flavors, many of them inspired by fruits and citrus. These lively, colorful drinks were a great reminder that coffee can be just as dynamic. We aim to capture some of those citrusy, bright notes in our next batch of roasts.
What really stood out in both Chicago and New York was the emphasis on fresh, high-quality beans. The pace of life is fast, but that doesn’t mean people will settle for anything less than excellent coffee. At Blackwell Coffee Co., we’ve always prioritized fresh roasting, knowing that it’s key to delivering that perfect cup. The cities reinforced this—fresh, quality coffee isn’t just preferred; it’s essential.
**Bringing These Flavors Home**
With these experiences in mind, we’re curating a new line of roasts that takes inspiration from both worlds. Expect sweet flavour with a touch of citrus from the Middle East, alongside lively, fruit-forward notes inspired by the flavors of New York and Chicago. Whether you’re sipping slowly with friends or grabbing a quick pick-me-up, these new blends will offer something for every coffee lover.
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