Search Results

When you step into Pirate Coffee, you’re not just grabbing a cup — you’re walking into a space that’s built like a marae: open, welcoming, and family-friendly. A place to connect, kōrero, and share stories over a brew. Our head roaster, Damo, is a proud Kiwi ( and yes, according to Big Seven Travel, the Kiwi accent is officially the sexiest in the world — we’ve been coasting on that since 2019). His whakapapa reaches across Ngāti Kahungunu and Taranaki, with threads back to Scotland and England. In our wider whānau you’ll find stories of explorers and warriors — George Lowe, who climbed alongside Sir Ed; Hinemanuhiri, a fierce leader from Ngāi Tamaterangi — and while Lewis Hamilton only shares the surname, we’ll claim him anyway! What’s in a name? Some of our most loved coffees carry Māori names that hold deep meaning for us and our customers - the names Tangaroa (meaning god of the sea) and Tu Meke (choice one, too much, too good) are Maori names and give a strong sense of meaning to our family business, roots back to NZ, specifically our Maori heritage. Tangaroa associates itself with the surrounding waters of where we roast in Port Stephens, with connectivity back to our waterways in New Zealand. Tangaroa is also our most awarded coffee and really is a bit of a standout blend for us. Tu Meke is our strong dark roasted coffee. “Too much” is a colloquial term for something that’s awesome and is usually preceded by “far out, that’s too much” – shortened in te reo maori (maori language) to “Tu Meke”. So next time someone does something exceptional or very cool – you can say “tu meke bro/cuz/mate”!! More than just coffee For us, these names are more than branding — they’re living reminders of our whakapapa, our connection to the land and sea, and the aroha (love) we bring into every cup. We know they can be tricky to pronounce, and that’s part of the fun. Every attempt, every question, every conversation is another chance to share a little bit of Te Reo Māori. So when you visit us at Pirate Coffee, don’t worry if you stumble over the pronunciation. Give it a go, try, laugh, relish the Kiwi sexiness you're partaking in —we love that you're giving it a shot, and just like a marae, you’re part of the whānau the moment you walk in. Nau mai, haere mai. Welcome to Pirate Coffee. Footnote: Te Wiki o te Reo Māori – Golden Anniversary In the lead up to the recent Te Wiki o te Reo Māori (14–20 September 2025) , Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori (the Māori Language Commission) launched activities to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Māori Language Week. This kaupapa built on their previous campaign “Reo Māori Moment” , which brought over a million people together at the same time to speak, sing, read, or sign in te reo Māori. All in all, it's about moving from celebrating the language to living it every day — something we try to encourage here at Pirate Coffee too.

Beautiful Honduran beans, from Montecillos on the border with El Salvador. Hey, you fancy coffee snob — yeah, you with the single-origin passport stamps and the “I only drink beans that know their terroir” attitude. Meet Montecillos, Honduras. Nestled in the southwestern highlands right on the border with El Salvador, Montecillos is the VIP lounge of coffee terroirs. We’re talking steep-as-hell mountains soaring from 1100 to 1700 meters above sea level. That’s high. The nights get crisp and cool, letting coffee cherries ripen slow and steady. It's the altitude that makes them delicious. But you already knew that. Here’s the backstage pass to the magic: small-holder farmers — the real MVPs — handpick ripe cherries, depulp them the same day, then ferment for a cheeky 12 to 24 hours in open-air tanks. Next, they wash ‘em clean and spread them on patios or raised beds to sun-dry for around 15 days, weather willing. It’s a slow, loving process. So, what’s the end result? Mellow notes of cooked plum, cola, and juicy peach, finishing smooth as silk. Ready to flex your coffee cred and sip like a boss? Well you better be quick, as this is a limited edition small batch. Grab Montecillos — available while it lasts. . . . #SmallBatch #LimitedEdition #DroppingNow #GetItWhileItsHot #Honduran #SingleOrigin #DrinkGoodDoGood

So, you’ve just finished your brew and you’re staring down the leftover puck. Now what? This is the first in our new series of fun, useful ways we keep the good going here at Pirate. Because great coffee shouldn’t stop at the cup—it can do good long after the last sip. In this post, we’re talking gardens. Your used coffee pucks (aka spent grounds) have hidden superpowers when it comes to your backyard ecosystem. Don’t toss them—compost them. Used right, your coffee leftovers can give your soil a boost and help your plants thrive. Here’s how we use our Pirate Coffee grounds in the garden! Used coffee pucks (aka spent grounds) have hidden superpowers when it comes to gardening P.S. Before you go chucking them all into the garden, let’s talk soil science: fresh coffee grounds are acidic and dense, which can mess with your soil’s pH and water flow if overused. That said, here are a few safe, cheeky ways to use them: Compost them first Coffee grounds are rich in nitrogen—a key ingredient in healthy compost. Mix them in with your usual food scraps and carbon-rich materials like dry leaves or cardboard. Balance is important. Too many coffee grounds can make your compost soggy or acidic, so keep it mixed. Blueberries, azaleas, camellias, hydrangeas, and rhododendrons love the pH party of good coffee! Feed acid-loving plants Blueberries, azaleas, camellias, rhododendrons, and hydrangeas all love a bit of acidity in the soil. Coffee grounds can help maintain that sweet spot. Just sprinkle lightly around the base of your plants. Use as a pest repellent Slugs, snails, and ants aren’t fans of the smell or texture of coffee. Sprinkle used grounds around vulnerable plants to form a natural barrier (but don’t overdo it—it can clump and form a crust). Worms love good coffee too! Worm food Like you, worms love coffee—but only in moderation. If you’ve got a worm farm, add grounds occasionally and make sure to mix with plenty of brown material. Too much caffeine = sad worms (and yes, we’ve learned that the hard way). Soil texture booster If you’ve got sandy or clay-heavy soil, mixing in coffee grounds can help improve water retention and airflow. Just remember—used grounds only, and always mix into the soil to prevent clumping. One last tip: Fresh coffee grounds can be a bit too acidic or harsh. Always use used, brewed coffee pucks—and never dump a whole pile in one go. Got a garden tip or compost fail to share? Tag us—we’re always up for learning from fellow gardening nerds! #GoodCoffeeGardenGold #CompostCrew #WinterGardening #CoffeePucks #DrinkGoodDoGood #SoilGoals #SustainableLiving #CircularEconomy #PurposefulLiving #WasteNot #FromCupToCompost #BackyardCircularity #CompostThat #GardenWithPurpose #GoodCoffee

Photo credits: @colinsheringham Every year from May to November, 40,000 humpbacks do the most impressive flex known to marine life: migrating thousands of kilometres like it’s no big deal, just to breach dramatically near our shores and make us feel things. Naturally, Damo made them a coffee. Introducing Wally25 — our Port Stephen's tribute roast that celebrates the "Humpback Highway" in full, caffeinated glory. It’s smooth, chocolatey, and cheeky as hell — just like your favourite roaster (you know the one). Introducing Wally 25 , our 2025 Port Stephen's tribute roast 🐋 “WHERE’S WHALEY?” — THE ROAST WITH THE WORST PUN AND THE BEST FLAVOUR - WALLY25 Wally started as a terrible dad joke and ended up a cult classic. Short for “Where’s Whaley?” (you know, like where's Wally / Waldo?), Wally25 is the seasonal blend locals beg us to keep year-round. Sorry, not sorry. This year’s blend? Maltesers and cocoa with a South + Central American bean base. You’ll get waves of rich, mellow goodness — kind of like a whale doing tai chi in a hot tub. 🛥️ POURING ON MOONSHADOW TQC (YES, REALLY) We teamed up again this year ith the legends at Moonshadow-TQC, which means you can now sip Pirate Coffee onboard the Hinchinbrook while looking for actual whales. Peak Port Stephens moment: watching a 40-tonne animal leap out of the ocean while you sip artisan Pirate Coffee-coffee brewed on deck. Don’t spill it. It’s hot. And the whales will judge you. (The official whale cruise season runs 24th May to 2nd November 202 5, weather pending!) 🌿 WHY WE LOVE THIS PLACE Port Stephens isn’t just a pretty postcard — it’s a biodiversity hotspot, yep, a whale superhighway, and one of Australia’s most underrated eco-tourism gems. From migrating humpbacks to bottlenose dolphins, from bush tracks to sea cliffs, this region invites you to slow down, breathe deep, and reconnect with nature. And let’s not forget the locals — our coastal bushlands are also home to one of NSW’s last remaining wild koala populations. At Pirate Coffee, we’re stoked to roast locally and be part of a community that values wildlife, adventure, and good humans doing good things. Can't wait for you to stop in and say hi! 📸 INTRODUCING OUR PIRATE IN RESIDENCE: COLIN SHERINGHAM Pirate in Residence, Colin Sheringham at Pirate HQ with Head Pirate, Demo This year we’ve shanghaied our mate Colin Sheringham into becoming our Pirate in Residence — because every good Pirate crew needs someone who can wield a camera like a cutlass. Photo credits: @colinsheringham Colin’s a photographic wizard, equal parts quiet observer and visual poet. His lens captures whales, wild coastlines, and those blink-and-you-miss-it moments that feel like magic. You’ll spot his work across this year’s Wally25 campaign - he's the talent behind the lens of our "Humpback gallery". You'll find his work across our packaging and comms promoting Wally25 for the season! PS: Our Pirate in Residence once wrote a PhD on food, satire, and global rebellion. If you ask me, sounds like he was always one of ours. ❤️ DRINK COFFEE. DO GOOD. NO FLUFF. We’re not just slinging beans for kicks. Pirate Coffee is a tech-enabled social enterprise — which means we reinvest profits into men’s mental health and impact projects. Every Wally25 sold helps fuel conversations that matter, moments that connect, and maybe — just maybe — fewer folks bottling it all up. So go on, grab a bag, drink something that tastes good and does good too. P.S. Yes, that stands for PORT STEPHENS - Keen to head here this winter? Check out the line up from our mates at Destination Port Stephens... https://www.portstephens.org.au/awaken-winters-wild/ (Make sure you hit us up so we can put a brew on!) . . . Photo credit: @colinsheringham Hashtags because it’s 2025 and we still do this: #Wally25 #HumpbackHighway #ProudlyRoastedinPortStephens #WhaleWatching2025 #PirateInResidence #CreativeCollaboration #Ecotourism #DrinkGoodDoGood #MensMentalHealth

☕️ TL;DR: We hosted Year 11 Business & IT students at Pirate HQ for a full-day immersive experience in business, tech, and social enterprise. From LEGO supply chains to startup pitches, students explored how a small regional roastery is teaching real-world skills—and why good coffee really is good business . Good Coffee is Good Business. And at Pirate Coffee, it’s also a platform for purpose. We’ve evolved into a tech-enabled social enterprise , using our small-but-mighty coffee business to teach real-world skills in business, technology, and social impact. Recently, we welcomed the Year 11 Business & IT students from St Philip’s Christian College, Port Stephens for a full-day, hands-on immersion at Pirate HQ. On the surface, it was about beans. Behind the scenes? It was about business models, advanced manufacturing, digital tools, sustainability—and how a regional roastery can serve up more than just a great brew. From designing supply chains out of LEGO (yep, seriously) to exploring international trade, traceability tech, and the circular economy, students got a full backstage pass to how we run things here at Pirate. We wrapped the day with a rapid-fire innovation sprint, where students pitched their own sustainable startup ideas. Their thinking was bold, hopeful—and more than a few had serious commercial legs. Judges getting ready to evaluate student pitches at the "Sustainable Innovation Presentation". Why We Do It We don’t just make coffee. We make space—for connection, curiosity, and the kind of experiential learning that doesn’t always happen in a classroom. Welcome to Labs at Pirate Coffee —our tech-enabled social enterprise where coffee meets future-focused education. This year's visit was part of a broader piece of work we've been running under our Pirate Labs banner for some time now—our way of activating future thinkers through the lens of business by embedding real-world business skills into education. It’s hands-on. It’s gritty. And it’s a natural extension of who we are, giving us the opportunity to share our past career experiences in global IT, business innovation , and marketing. Over the past few years, we’ve: Delivered entrepreneurship and innovation sprints with students across Sydney and Port Stephens Run barista training and we've even roasted coffee in classrooms! Explored everything from post-consumer waste to digital traceability tools —all via the trojan horse of coffee. And importantly, we’ve built individualised learning pathways for students with diverse needs—including young people accessing the NDIS through one-on-one supports. By adapting how we teach core skills like roasting , safety, and process flow, we’ve created meaningful engagement and helped build confidence in environments where teens can truly thrive. We believe in learning that works for everyone—and that a hands-on small business can be a powerful tool for inclusion and skill development . What’s a Social Enterprise? At Pirate, we also introduce students (and sometimes teachers) to a powerful business model they may not know: Social Enterprise . A social enterprise is a business model that blends profit with purpose . It’s not charity. And it’s not corporate CSR fluff. It’s about building businesses that solve real-world problems and stay commercially strong. Pirate is proud to be one of them. For us, that purpose is men’s mental wellbeing . Every coffee sold helps us reinvest straight back into our community. What’s Next? We’ll be back in action soon at the /NEW25 - the Conference for Tech Professionals in Newcastle (28 + 29 May) , fuelling the crowd with our epic Pirate Coffee (coffee carts, again generously supported by NEWYTECH Peopl e —Australia’s leading engineering and tech recruitment agency... whilst Damo facilitates his much-loved "Slow Coffee" sessions —kicking off deeper conversations around mental health , technology , and sustainable enterprise . This year we'll also be supported by some of the bright young faces who have been experiencing the Pirate way, giving them the chance to gain real-life hospo skills—and more importantly, rub shoulders with industry. You never know what sliding door moment might spark—and we’re here to help open that door. We're back again at /NEW25 - join us! https://slashnew.tech We don’t always talk about what happens behind the scenes—but days like this remind us why it matters. At Pirate, coffee is just the beginning. It’s a vehicle for learning, inclusion, connection, and possibility. Whether it’s building future skills, mentoring young talent, or bringing industry closer to education—we’re here for it. If you're an educator, business, or community leader who sees the potential in this kind of work, let’s talk. Until then? Stay curious. Drink good. Do good. Trace + Damo #DrinkGoodDoGood #SocialEnterprise #FutureOfWork #ProudlyRoastedinPortStephens #EducationMatters #InclusiveBusiness #CoffeeSupplyChain #SlowCoffee #GoodCoffeeIsGoodBusiness #TechEnabledLearning #SocialEnterprise #ExperientialLearning #RegionalInnovation

Out in the wild you might’ve noticed your coffee’s gotten a little more expensive lately. Whether it’s your morning takeaway or a new price tag at your local café — it’s not just you. And it’s not just inflation. The truth is, coffee’s in a bit of a storm right now — and we’re all in the boat together. So what’s going on? Since early 2024, the cost of green (unroasted) coffee has surged — and there’s no sign of it easing. Why? A few things: Years of poor harvests* in Brazil, Colombia, and Vietnam Extreme weather: droughts, erratic rainfall, smaller yields Global shipping and fuel costs are up And the Australian dollar is weaker than usual, which makes importing anything — especially coffee — more expensive That’s before we even get to freight, labour, roasting, packaging, and running a small business - heeeello power bills! And unlike past spikes, this isn’t a temporary blip. Climate volatility, supply-demand imbalances, and structural cost increases are all pointing to a new normal . Prices aren’t likely to return to pre-2020 levels anytime soon. But there’s a silver lining For once, the rising prices are allowing more fair compensation for coffee farmers — especially those producing high-quality, specialty-grade beans. It’s not just about survival anymore. It’s about sustainability — long-term investment, better livelihoods, and better coffee for all of us. Only the good stuff - we don’t buy commodity coffee We buy specialty coffee  — the good stuff. That means paying farmers well above the market rate to get beautiful, ethical, traceable beans. Add quality premiums, roasting loss, freight, compostable packaging, equipment, utilities… you get the idea. So what are we doing about it at Pirate? First off — we’re holding our retail bean prices in-store and online for as long as we possibly can. AND we'll keep rolling out our Pirate Perks to give you more value where it counts: Free takeaway coffee when you buy a retail bag in store at HQ BYO container refills launching soon (less waste, more savings) New single origins and microlots thanks to Damo’s obsessive bean sourcing (he doesn’t sleep. He cupps.) Keep the good stuff flowing - drink good (locally!) We’ve also made small wholesale price shifts to support our café partners — many of whom are doing it tough. So if your favourite café has nudged their price up, know that it’s helping them stay afloat, pay staff properly, and keep slinging great coffee. Keep drinking the good stuff locally when you can! We’re here for the long game — and we’re grateful to brew for you. Thanks for backing the crew. — Tracey + Damo Drink Good. Do Good. Stay Legendary. * Wait, coffee grows on trees? It does! Coffee is a fruit. The beans we roast are actually the seeds of bright red cherries grown in tropical mountain regions — often by small-scale farmers in places like Brazil, Colombia, and Vietnam. And like all crops, it’s vulnerable to weather, markets, and global supply chain chaos.

At Pirate Coffee, we believe coffee can do more than just wake you up — it can lift up a community too. This ANZAC Day, we opened our doors from 9AM to 12PM with a simple goal: sling some good brews for a good cause. Thanks to the incredible support of our local community (and a few generous coin tosses into the jar), we’re thrilled to share that together we raised $150 for the RSL NSW – Nelson Bay Sub-Branch . Every coffee sold helped supporting veterans and their families in our local region. Rosemary grown by Mrs Pirate - Tracey and brought to HQ just for this occasion. Lest we forget. Good Coffee for a Good Cause - meet the RSL NSW - Nelson Bay Sub-Branch The RSL NSW – Nelson Bay Sub-Branch has been a vital part of our community for decades, providing connection, support services, and a place to belong for those who have served. We're proud to have played a small part in giving back to the legends who have given so much. A huge thank you to everyone who dropped in for a brew, brought their crew, or simply threw a few coins into the cause. And an even bigger WOW to our dear mate who cooked a few batches of his own bikkies to add to the fundraiser! Thanks again for helping us prove that good coffee for a good cause really does make a difference! With respect and gratitude, Tracey + Damian About Pirate Coffee At Pirate Coffee, we believe good coffee can do more than fuel your day — it can fuel change.Our mission is simple: Drink Good. Do Good. Good coffee. Great causes. Pirate Coffee is proud to turn every brew into a chance to build stronger communities and back the legends who inspire us. This ANZAC Day holds a special place in our hearts. Coming from a Defence family ourselves, and serving a community where many of our customers have served — or are still serving — we are deeply grateful for the courage, sacrifice, and spirit of the ANZACs that continue to inspire us today. Every cup we roast and pour is a chance to support good causes, build stronger communities, and honour the legends who have made a difference — both past and present. Thanks for being part of our Pirate crew.🏴‍☠️☕ Curious about the crew behind the brews? Meet Pirate Coffee and read more about our mission to Drink Good. Do Good. 🏴‍☠️☕

Finca Las Rosa - home of the Villatoro family and our producer, Rolando VIllatoro 🏴‍☠️⚔️ Greatness isn't stumbled upon. It's crafted. And now... it’s poured. Introducing Shogun — our first-ever super premium release , born from the legendary Gesha varietal grown at Finca Las Rosas , nestled in the misty mountains of Huehuetenango, Guatemala . This isn’t just coffee.It ’s a masterwork — roasted by Pirate Coffee for adventurers who know there's more to life than average. Origin Profile Farm Finca Las Rosas Varietal Gesha Altitude 1700–1900m Process Washed Region Huehuetenango, Guatemala Tasting Notes Vanilla, Cooked Berry, Dried Citrus About Finca Las Rosas Tucked at the base of the mighty Cuchumatanes mountain range in Huehuetenango, Finca Las Rosas has been crafting exceptional coffees for nearly a century. The farm first planted coffee in the 1920s , and four generations later, it's still family-owned and operated — now led by Rolando Villatoro . With every harvest, the Villatoro family pours passion, knowledge, and tradition into every bean. High altitude, rich volcanic soil, and nearly 100 years of care all come together in the cup — delivering clarity, sweetness, and complexity that no machine can fake. (Spoiler: It’s the opposite of supermarket sadness.) About the Bean - Guatemalan Gesha coffee This Guatemalan Gesha is a rare gem — delicate, sweet, and layered with flavor. Freshly roasted at our Pirate Coffee Roastery, we’ve honored its character by coaxing out the full spectrum of notes: ✨ Aromatic vanilla ✨ Juicy cooked berries ✨ A crisp dried citrus finish It’s a coffee that lingers long after the cup is empty. Why "Shogun"? In the Pirate Coffee universe, Shogun is more than a name — it’s a guardian of excellence. They represent mastery, honor, resilience — and the relentless pursuit of perfection. (Also, they could probably slice a cappuccino in half with a sword flick. Just saying. 🥷☕) This Gesha carries that spirit: rare yet approachable, bold yet precise. Limited Release Because of the rarity of these beans, Shogun – Finca Las Rosas Gesha is a strictly limited release .When this batch is gone, it’s truly gone — like a samurai disappearing into the mist. ⚡ Available now at Pirate Coffee Roastery and online. ⚡ Whole bean only — designed for black coffee purists. ⚡ Best enjoyed as a pour-over, Chemex, or as a tasty tasty espresso. Your Invitation Life’s too short for boring coffee. Level up your mornings. Drink greatness. 👉 Grab Your Shogun Roast Here ⚔️🏴‍☠️🍒 #DrinkGoodDoGood #PirateCoffee #Shogun #SpecialtyCoffee #PortStephens #Huehuetenango #GeshaMagic

If you're like me, your coffee consumption changes with the weather, your mood, how tasty the roast is (yes, as the wife of a coffee roaster, I do happen to drink A LOT more coffee when Damo is experimenting!), and of course, how many visitors you’re hosting! (We even have customers whose boomerang adult children boost their coffee orders when they're home for university holidays!) So, how much coffee do you really need to keep your mornings (and afternoons) running smoothly? I've put together a bit of a guide to help you navigate, whether you’re a casual home barista, making coffee for the troops, or a dedicated coffee enthusiast... First things first— we all need to dial in our perfect shot . The quantities below ensure you’ve got enough for experimenting, enjoying, and calibrating your equipment to suit the roast profile and the weather. (Yes, hot weather makes the beans expand, so you should be tweaking your grind, and humidity does all sorts of funky things to the beans—but more on that in another post! For today, let’s talk about how many beans you need to buy.) (These calculations are based on espresso-based drinks, but if you’re a Hario V60 filter drinker, Aeropress fan, or stovetop brewer, scroll down.) 250g Bag*:  Drinking 1 cup a day at home? This size is just right, lasting around 1.5-2 weeks . Perfect for those who enjoy a fresh brew each day and want to keep drinking while the roast is at its peak. 500g Bag:  2 cups a day more your speed?  This size will keep you well-caffeinated for 2-3 weeks  of epic coffee. 1kg Bag:  If you’re making up to 4 cups a day,  this is your go-to for about 2-3 weeks  of coffee at home. Perfect for those who like to get their routine just right, with enough to tweak and experiment along the way. *For our Hario V60 filter coffee fans , a 250g bag should give you about 20-25 single cups . If you’re into Aeropress , plunger , or stovetop  brewing, you’ll find your coffee stretches a bit further or shorter, depending on your method and preferred strength. How many do you do? Does my ready reckoner match your consumption or are you having a few too many, "Who drunk all the coffee?" "Opps it was me!" Moments...?! Love to hear your feedback. Trace Did you know when you choose Pirate Coffee, you’re not just enjoying great coffee—you’re also supporting a family-owned business that gives back. Our coffee does good by supporting men’s mental wellbeing. How good is that?! #DrinkCoffeeDoGood  #ProudlyRoastedinPortStephens   #independentcoffee   #CoffeeLovers   #CoffeeEducation   #Homebarista

Of course we think the perfect cup of coffee starts with the right beans (!) and roasting method, oh, and brewing method! But what about the milk? Cows milk has been the traditional choice for coffee drinkers for centuries, but plant-based milks have become increasingly popular in recent years. So you're thinking of drinking plant-based with your Pirate brew?! We've heard from a few of you that you're curious about the fuss around plant-based, and others of you are making philosophical, dietary, lifestyle or if you're like me (I'm allergic to dairy protein - more on that in my next blog), health choices when it comes to the milk you put with your favourite Pirate Coffee roasts so I thought I'd put a post together. Ok let's go - almond milk, macadamia milk, soy milk, oat milk, and coconut milk : what's the difference? Almond milk, macadamia milk, soy milk, oat milk, and coconut milk are all popular plant-based milks that can be used in coffee. Each milk has its own unique flavour, texture, and nutritional profile. Below is a bit of a run down on what we'd call the "typical" attributes - although if you read the ingredients list on the side of the box, you'll notice that some brands will have additional additives to tweak the profile. Note: I'm neither a doctor or an environmental scientist. This blog is based on research and opinion. Open to debate - please write to me if you've got compelling data to add! Flavour (although often additives can tweak the profile) Almond milk: Sweet and slightly nutty Macadamia milk: Rich and creamy with a hint of sweetness Soy milk: Nutty and slightly earthy Oat milk: Creamy and slightly sweet Coconut milk: Sweet and tropical Texture Almond milk: Thin and watery Macadamia milk: Rich and creamy Soy milk: Medium - between almond milk and macadamia milk Oat milk: Creamy, but can be thicker than soy milk Coconut milk: Thick and creamy Nutrition Almond milk: Good source of vitamin E and magnesium, but low in protein and calcium Macadamia milk: Good source of healthy fats, but low in protein and calcium Soy milk: Good source of protein, calcium, and iron Oat milk: Good source of beta-glucans, a type of fibre that has been shown to have health benefits Coconut milk: High in saturated fat, but low in protein and calcium Environmental impact Almond milk: High water use due to the amount of water needed to grow almonds Macadamia milk: Low environmental impact due to the low water and land usage required to grow macadamia nuts Soy milk: Lower environmental impact than cow's milk, but higher than macadamia milk Oat milk: Lowest environmental impact of all the plant-based milks Coconut milk: High environmental impact due to the high greenhouse gas emissions associated with the production of coconuts Which milk is best for coffee? The best milk for coffee is a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer the sweeter flavour of almond milk, while others prefer the richer flavour of coconut milk. Some people also prefer the thinner texture of almond milk, while others prefer the thicker texture of coconut milk. Here are some specific recommendations for each type of milk: Almond milk: A good option for people who want a sweet and nutty flavor. It's also a good option for people who are looking for a milk with a low environmental impact. Macadamia milk: A good option for people who want a rich and creamy flavor. It's also a good option for people who are looking for a milk with a low saturated fat content. Soy milk: A good option for people who want a milk with a good balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition. It's also a good option for people who are lactose intolerant or allergic to dairy. Oat milk: A good option for people who want a milk with a creamy texture and a slightly sweet flavor. It's also a good option for people who are looking for a milk with a low environmental impact. Coconut milk: A good option for people who want a sweet and tropical flavor. It's also a good option for people who are looking for a milk with a thick and creamy texture. If you're still not sure which milk to choose, the best thing to do is to experiment and see which one you like best. For me, I like the fat content of Coconut - especially when I'm following Keto (!), otherwise I'll pick Oat. There's a growing number of brands doing plant based. We know a few of our VIPs (that's Very Important Pirates!) choose Aldi Coconut for their Pirate piccolos, whilst others love Oatly. If you've found a goodie - please share! If you get on and do a search, there's also good resources for making your own if you're feeling like it - yes, you can milk your own nuts. I can already read the comments field on that, so let's not go there! Already a plant-based Pirate Coffee drinker? When we bring on new roasts we especially like to get feedback on how each profile stacks up to different milks and mylks. If you're already drinking plant based with your Pirate Coffee - we'd love to hear from you! Slide into our DMs if you'd like to be part of our official Taste Testing crew! Trace

Our Head Roaster, Damian reporting on the ground ;) from the Melbourne International Coffee Expo this week! As you can see lots of inspo, meeting farmers, industry and yes - eyes on some very cool gear - this means new partnerships and potentially some epic new barista kit for you all! Let us know if you've got any questions for Damo whilst he's there! #MICE2023 #MelbourneInternationalCoffeeExpo #CoffeeExpo #Roaster

Kia Ora Koutou, thanks to Southland Merchants for introducing Espigao Farm to us! Just a little talk on the meaning of working with small farms.

Kia Ora team, it is with sadness that we currently had to remove April Sun for sale from our online site as PayPal has stopped all financial transactions due to the US embargo with Cuba. The rest of the range is still available and we will look longer term at our strategy to get the sweet smoky tastes of Cuba into your hands, as Australia does not have the same embargo :) We love Straya!

Happy Wednesday and happier for some of you who are on monthly subscriptions. I've jumped back into the creative side of things having gotten a small quantity of Nicaragua & Ethiopian beans that will go out in this month’s subscription packs (https://www.drinkpirate.coffee/product-page/good-coffee-subscription-monthly), thank you for your ongoing support and we hope you enjoy the new flavours! I picked these Nicaraguan beans as they are a Rainforest Alliance bean (https://www.rainforest-alliance.org/about/) ensuring that the coffee is grown in a way that is low impact to forests, while still supporting the farmers and growers of this chocolate goodness! Courtesy of Hamish MacEwan via Google Maps As many of you know, I’m a kiwi, so I grew up with darker roasts and chocolate, smoky flavours - in fact my favourite place in Wellington, NZ was Midnight Espresso in Cuba St. Both, for their coffee and their sensational muffins. So you will find a lot of this influence in the beans I roast and the flavours I typically have in my beans. The Ethiopian is a little daring for me, with sultana and berry tones it’s a fruit flavour that I think is more suited to filter and pour over. Typically the coffee connoisseurs favourite cup, I’m a little atypical - give me a smoky caramel Cuban coffee anyday! So I hope you enjoy the mixture of flavours and experience of new countries - I’m enjoying working with new beans and being a little experimental with my coffee roasting - all to deliver the best coffee experience you can have. So enjoy your Wednesday and your coffee!

Kia Ora and Gong Xi Fa Cai! We are really starting to ramp up into the new year, having run 3 pop-ups already this year because of our amazing community, we are certainly learning a lot and learning fast. I have a new admiration for those amazing, wonderful, patient, loving baristas of the world - having to crank out 150-200 coffees in 2 hours nearly broke my spirit, but like Chumbawumba "I get up again" - btw, one of my favourite hobbies is ear worms - those songs that get stuck in your head for an hour or days that you hum along to... so if in half an hour you are still singing "I get knocked down" do hit me up on Insta, I do enjoy having a giggle at that misfortune - @drinkpiratecoffee To change the pace a bit we are bringing on a few pieces of coffee toys, mainly around filter and pour over coffee, but also tampers and bits and pieces you may want to upgrade or just clean your machines with. I'm a recent convert to the Hario V60 (thanks Kym - my sister). For simplicity and enjoying the process it really is a great way to have a long black, or a black coffee with a touch of cold milk. The process of brewing is gravity based so without the pressure of running it through the espresso machine, the shot is more pure and aligns better to the natural characteristics of the bean itself. So we have a few of the Hario V60 Ceramic kits in stock, you can also swing into the Roastery and try the difference before you buy. We have also gotten our hands on some of the Brewista Flat V Cone Glass Drippers also designed for that slow and tasty pour over experience. And yes, we have the filters on offer for both of the options. I'm playing around with some different roasts at the moment so keep an eye out for the perfect pour over coffee to suit this swag - you might even be tempted to "taste the world" from your own sofa - watch this space. Nga mihi kia koutou (in Te Reo Maori that means thank you all very much) for the ongoing support and connection.

Definitely a bit of fun trying to do something new, special request for a filter coffee for a customer in Sydney! The verdict? Well 2 degrees massively changes the flavour and the characteristics of the bean - Batch 1 a little lighter in roast - sweet caramel, berry tones. Batch 4 just held on for an extra 2 degrees of roasting, slightly citrus and darker tones that overtake the sweet berry notes. Thanks for the challenge!

After years of debating and deliberating, so many requests and demands (actually only 3 days of deliberating and 2 people in 7 years have asked) I thought I'd have a crack (coffee pun) at Decaf. Scrolling through narrative around bean colour, density, form, and the usual "depends on the usual bean characteristics" I had a go. The narrative and fails many people have had made it quite confronting, but the results after playing with some temps and volume - I think a pretty good roasted bean AND it's decaf. It will never be my go-to bean of choice, but the flavours from this little Mexican Chiapas bean were consistent with the chocolate and spice I get from other Mexican roasts I've done and also a hint of The Doctor. So, I'm one step closer to my "Decaf, Alcohol Free" Espresso Martini.... but again... is it really something in demand? I guess time will tell! Kudos goes to: Aillio Bullet Members who shared their experience, Coffee Snobs Members who did the same. Useful article: https://perfectdailygrind.com/2017/11/what-roasters-need-to-know-about-decaf-coffee/ So, watch this space, we might have a new Decaf option coming soon...

To be honest the senses are definitely aware of a nearby coffee roaster when I walk down a street and get a whiff of burn toast mixed with nut oil... It's something that smells better slightly away from the roaster. I had an awesome experience roasting Thursday - a recent batch of Costa Rica beans and you could smell the apricot tones coming through the roast. Pretty awesome and I think a thing of my senses now being more aware... awakened even... to the nuances of the beans I'm roasting. My clothes at the end of a day roasting do smell like coffee, which I guess is better than what Kenny smelt like at the end of a day cleaning. And my wife loves coffee... So that's a win!

Happy to have a bit more time to crank up the roaster and start getting beans done at scale! Enjoying some of the Mums Last Dance - a Mexican Organic roast that has a bit of kick and smoky taste to enjoy with milk or shots like this one. Have a new batch roasting later today of this and some Honduran that I’ve been keen to try!