As I sit here, cradling my mug of freshly brewed coffee, I can’t help but reflect on the incredible journey that has led me here. My name is Tyler, and I’m a self-proclaimed coffee aficionado—a title I wear with pride, earned through years of exploration, discovery, and a relentless pursuit of the perfect cup.
Falling Down the Rabbit Hole
My love affair with coffee began at a young age, growing up in the vibrant coffee culture of Vancouver, British Columbia. Those early memories of sharing old-school cappuccinos with my dad, the rich aroma and frothy milk, sparked an interest that would one day blossom into a full-blown passion.
It wasn’t until years later, during a trip to Costa Rica, that I truly began to unravel the complexities of the coffee world. The mere thought of being in a country so renowned for its coffee piqued my curiosity, and I found myself diving headfirst into exploring the nuances of Central American beans. From there, my fascination expanded to the diverse offerings of South America and the captivating profiles of African coffees.
But the real turning point came in a quaint café in Scottsdale, Arizona. My wife and I were strolling through the charming streets when we stumbled upon Cartel Coffee Roasters. I approached the bar and asked the barista for a recommendation, and that’s when my world was forever changed. They suggested a Chemex brew of their Ethiopian Natural coffee—what they affectionately referred to as the “blueberry bomb.”
In that moment, my eyes were opened. The clear note of blueberry sent my senses into overdrive, and I knew there was so much more to coffee than I had ever imagined. That single cup catalyzed my journey into the realm of specialty coffee, a journey that continues to this day.
Sharing the Passion
As my fascination with coffee grew, I found myself wanting to share my experiences and insights with a wider audience. In 2018, I decided to take the plunge and launch my blog, Commonly Coffee, along with my social media accounts. What started as a casual hobby quickly became a true passion project.
The pandemic, in an unexpected twist, provided the perfect tipping point. With fewer opportunities for in-person interactions, my blog and social media platforms became the primary channels for me to connect with the coffee community. I discovered a deep joy in storytelling, and the relationships I’ve forged through this journey have been nothing short of remarkable.
One such relationship was with the team at Rooftop Coffee Roasters, who encouraged me to take my content creation to the next level. It was during a chance encounter at Sought x Found Coffee in Calgary that they urged me to start sharing more of my coffee discoveries and experiences. Their belief in me was the spark I needed to truly commit to this path.
The Art of Brewing
When it comes to the vast array of coffee gear and brewing methods, I’ve had the privilege of experimenting with a wide range of options. But through it all, I’ve come to realize that the key to a truly satisfying coffee experience lies in finding the right balance between complexity and simplicity.
My personal routine often involves a rotation of three distinct brewing methods, each tailored to the time of day and my mood. In the mornings, when time is of the essence, you’ll find me reaching for my trusty Ratio Six or Ratio Eight batch brewers. These machines effortlessly deliver a consistently great cup of coffee, allowing me to start my day with the perfect balance of convenience and quality.
As the day winds down and I have more time to savor the ritual, I’ll often opt for a decaf pour-over or a session of espresso pulling. These methods demand a bit more focus and attention, but the reward is a truly extraordinary cup that allows me to experiment and explore the nuances of the beans.
I firmly believe that when it comes to specialty coffee, there’s room for both complexity and simplicity. While some may be drawn to the latest gear and the pursuit of the last bit of flavor extraction, I often find that the most rewarding experiences come from focusing on the fundamentals—delivering a consistently excellent cup through user-friendly equipment.
Discovering New Horizons
As a passionate coffee enthusiast, I’m constantly on the lookout for new ways to expand my knowledge and experience. One of the most valuable resources in my journey has been the community itself—the connections I’ve made with fellow coffee lovers, baristas, and industry professionals.
I regularly turn to my trusted network of coffee-loving friends for inspiration and insights. These are the people who have been there with me, sharing their own experiences and recommendations. They’ve been instrumental in exposing me to new brewing methods, cutting-edge gear, and the latest trends in the ever-evolving world of specialty coffee.
Another invaluable resource has been the team at Rochester Brewing and Roasting, a local hub of coffee and craft beer expertise. Their unwavering support and willingness to share their knowledge have been instrumental in my growth as a coffee enthusiast. Whether it’s testing out new gear or diving deep into the nuances of a particular origin, the Rochester crew is always there to lend a helping hand.
As for planning my coffee-centric travels, I’ve honed a system that allows me to make the most of every trip. Before venturing to a new city, I meticulously research the local specialty coffee scene, consulting resources like Sprudge City Guides and tapping into my network of coffee-loving friends. This ensures that I’m always discovering the hidden gems and experiencing the very best that each destination has to offer.
Endless Possibilities
Even after five years of immersing myself in the world of specialty coffee, I’m amazed at how much there is still to learn. The industry’s relentless pursuit of innovation and the constant evolution of brewing techniques and equipment never cease to inspire me.
Attending the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Expo was a truly eye-opening experience. Surrounded by the latest gear, groundbreaking innovations, and passionate individuals, I was reminded of the boundless potential that lies within this ever-expanding industry.
While I may have my personal preferences and go-to methods, I find myself consistently drawn back to the iconic and reliable brewers that have stood the test of time. The humble V60 and trusty AeroPress continue to hold a special place in my coffee routine, reminding me that great coffee doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag or a steep learning curve.
As I sip my morning brew, crafted with care on my Ratio Eight, I’m filled with a sense of excitement for the future of specialty coffee. I can’t wait to see where the next five years will take us, and I’m determined to be an active part of the journey—amplifying the stories of the farmers and producers who are the true lifeblood of this industry, and continuing to share my passion with the growing community of coffee enthusiasts.
So, whether you’re a seasoned coffee connoisseur or just embarking on your own caffeine-fueled adventure, I invite you to join me in this ongoing exploration. Let’s raise our mugs and toast to the endless possibilities that await us in the world of specialty coffee.
