Coffee beans come from the cherry-like fruit of a tree that grows in nearly 80 countries across four continents in a narrow, subtropical belt around the world. Two general types of coffee are grown: Robusta and Arabica. Robusta is considered to be inferior to Arabica, having less flavor and a thin, astringent taste with about twice the caffeine as Arabica. However, because these taller trees can grow at low altitudes, can take full sun, and are resistant to pests and diseases, they produce more coffee and are easier to harvest.
Although Arabica beans represent 70% of the coffee bean harvest, not all Arabica is top quality. However, because they generally are superior to Robusta beans, the lower quality Arabica beans are often mixed with Robusta to create the mass-marketed mediocre coffees found in cans and in instant coffee.
Of the Arabica beans, less than 15% meets specialty coffee standards, but this is still a daunting amount of coffee to sort through. We are constantly researching new beans and recent harvests for the finest quality beans to buy, roast and blend. Of special interest to us is the improving market of superior sustainably and organically grown coffees. As these coffees become available, we are expanding our offerings in these areas.
We roast our coffees in a small-batch Deidrich 12-kilo drum roaster, ensuring that every batch is brought to perfection. Our roasts are specifically designed to highlight the unique characteristics of each coffee. To ensure freshness, we seal our beans in foil bags as soon as they are cooled after roasting. These bags are equipped with special one-way values that allow the beans to “de-gas” without leaving the beans exposed to the detrimental effects of air. When you order online, your fresh-roasted coffee beans are processed and shipped priority within two days for your drinking pleasure. Keep in mind that, with a five-pound minimum order, we are happy to custom roast and blend coffees for you.
Rock City Coffee — the fundamental brew.
All coffee sold in 3/4 lb. sealed bags.
Take a peek at our Complete Bean list - find the perfect bean for you.
