Latest news with #SpecialtyCoffeeAssociation
Mint
29-04-2025
- Health
- Mint
The Bengaluru coffee brand serving an environment-friendly cuppa
Of all the factors that have contributed to Dr Arshiya Bose's most recent achievement, a bout of allergy might seem the most bizarre. Bose, 42, is the founder of Black Baza Coffee Co., a grassroots organisation with biodiversity-friendly brews that benefit the producers and the environment. Earlier this month, the Bengaluru-based company won the prestigious Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Sustainability Award in the for-profit category—the first Indian coffee company to do so. Based in California, USA, SCA is considered the largest global coffee trade association and encourages sustainable practices across the speciality coffee value chain. To think none of this would have happened if a brutal allergy attack hadn't changed the trajectory of Bose's PhD research. In the summer of 2010, Bose was a PhD candidate at the Department of Geography, University of Cambridge, looking to explore community-based conservation efforts in Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh. But one morning, she woke up with a swollen throat in the throes of an allergy attack that required immediate medical attention. "I needed to be ten minutes away from a hospital in case this happened again," shares Bose. She said goodbye to the high altitudes of Spiti and changed her research topic altogether. As a trained human geographer with a keen interest in community-based conservation, Bose then chose to focus on understanding how incentivising conservation efforts encourages better practices for land use. Zooming in on coffee farms in Kodagu, Karnataka, for her research, Bose compared farms that obtained the Rainforest Alliance (RA) Certification, a global environmental certification program for sustainability in agriculture, with farms that were not certified. Her goal was to understand if the certification process benefited farmers and led to on-ground biodiversity conservation measures. "Coffee provides the right canvas to examine these intricacies. It's widely consumed, but it is also a premium product like chocolate, and there is a growing interest in where the coffee is coming from and how it's grown," she says. Her research revealed that such certification programs are often designed with large coffee producing countries, like Brazil and Colombia, in mind. 'India's coffee comes from farms that are ecologically different. Thus, conservation approaches as well as certifications need to be relevant to our farms," says Bose. 'As we don't have rain throughout the year, coffee was largely grown under the shade of trees with their canopies protecting these crops from hot and dry conditions," shares Bose. Chennai's M. S. Swaminathan Research Foundation discovered when British colonisers cleared forests to plant coffee for commercial consumption, it encouraged monocropping and increased yields by growing it under the sun. Bose realised not only did this impact coffee quality, but also depleted biodiversity. To counter this and fill the gap between certifications tailored for the West and on-ground production practices unique to India, she set up Black Baza Coffee Co. in 2016. Single-origin, roasted in small batches and grown in the shade of native trees, like Ficus, Jamun and Terminalia, without pesticides and chemical inputs, a cup of coffee from Black Baza is many things. Bose primarily works with smallholder farmers who cultivate coffee on the edge of forests. 'The average land holding is anywhere between half an acre to two acres of land," she shares. In the Biligirirangana Hills (BR Hills), Karnataka, they work with the indigenous Soliga community to source their coffee. In Nilgiris, the company partners with Aadhimalai Pazhangudiyinar Producer Company Limited, which sources forest and agricultural products from indigenous communities in the Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve. In Tamil Nadu's Palani Hills, Black Baza sources coffee from a group of smallholder, marginal farmers. They continuously monitor the biodiversity in these farms, documenting the avian, mammal and other species that frequent them. "For example, in the Palani Hills, having gaurs in and around the farmlands is a good indicator of a healthy ecosystem, whereas in the BR Hills, they look for smaller creatures like bees, earthworms and termites," explains Bose. The enterprise features nine high-altitude Arabicas, two mid and low-elevation Robustas and two Arabica-Robusta blends from 650 smallholder and marginal farmers across the Western Ghats of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala on its website, The Galaxy Frog, for example, is a medium roast arabica that tastes of molasses, green grapes and lemon zest and the Luna is a sun-dried robusta with notes of dark chocolate, spice and tobacco. Annually, Indians consume about 91,000 tonnes of coffee, as per the Ministry of Commerce. With an emphasis on terroir and unique flavour profiles, consumers are now zooming in on where the beans come from. Increasing demand for specialty coffee is a key trend shaping India's coffee industry, notes the market research organisation, Custom Market Insights. Additionally, with increasing pressures of climate change, regenerative methods of cultivating coffee are gaining attention across farms. 'But for many smallholder farmers, these practices are a part of their processes for generations," shares Bose. In India, coffee growers like Balmaadi in Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, cultivate it under the canopy of native trees. Specialty coffee company ARAKU Coffee also focuses on regenerative cultivation methods and empowering smallholder, indigenous farmers in Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh. Founder & President of Bengaluru-based coffee consulting laboratory Coffeelab Ltd., Sunalini Menon, shares that the award is a special moment for India's coffee landscape. Menon was recently appointed to the SCA Board of Directors, the first time that a coffee expert from the country has joined the Board. She says, 'India's signature feature is coffee grown under the shade of trees. I have been to so many countries and have never seen the extent of plant diversity one observes on Indian coffee farms. It's not just the trees; so many floral and faunal species co-exist with coffee plants, and all of these add value to the environment and the coffee beans. Sustainability and biodiversity are an integral part of India's coffee-growing culture, and an Indian company receiving this award is extremely valid. We deserve it." Sharmila Vaidyanathan is a freelance writer from Bengaluru.
Associated Press
11-04-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Specialty Coffee Expo Rebrands as World of Coffee, Joining Globally Renowned Event Series
2026 Trade Show and Conference, Under New Name, Planned for San Diego, CA IRVINE, CA / ACCESS Newswire Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), the largest global coffee trade association dedicated to making coffee better, has announced the rebranding of its flagship North American event, the Specialty Coffee Expo, as World of Coffee. The final edition under the Specialty Coffee Expo name will take place in Houston from April 25-27, 2025, before debuting as World of Coffee San Diego on April 10-12, 2026, at the San Diego Convention Center in California. Click here to watch video announcement. Attendees and exhibitors at World of Coffee San Diego will continue to experience the same dynamic community and industry-leading event they have come to expect. The show will feature a diverse range of exhibitors, world-class workshops, cutting-edge technology, and elite coffee competitions, all within a globally recognized brand known for fostering business, community, and innovation. As excitement builds for World of Coffee San Diego, attendees can look forward to a fresh era of industry collaboration and discovery. The rebranded event will serve as the premier destination for professionals looking to expand their reach, explore new innovations, and build meaningful connections across the global coffee landscape. 'Renaming Expo to World of Coffee brings North America's premier coffee trade show into the globally recognized World of Coffee brand, reinforcing our commitment to international growth, collaboration, and innovation in the coffee industry,' said Yannis Apostolopoulos, CEO of the Specialty Coffee Association. 'We chose the name World of Coffee because, in times of division, demonstrating unity is more important than ever. Our goal is to bring together coffee professionals and stakeholders worldwide, aligning the event with our broader purpose. World of Coffee will build on Expo's 30-year legacy, continuing to connect industry leaders, exhibitors, and enthusiasts to explore emerging trends, cutting-edge technology, and new business opportunities - all while celebrating the vibrant global coffee community.' With a 30-year legacy of growth and international expansion, the Specialty Coffee Expo was recently recognized as one of Trade Show Executive's 2024 Fastest 50 events for growth in total attendance. This momentum makes the transition to World of Coffee a natural next step in elevating North America's role within the global coffee industry. As part of the World of Coffee series - which hosts premier coffee events in Central America, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia - World of Coffee San Diego will provide an enhanced platform for ambitious businesses entering new markets and seeking to source from new regions. Since its inception in Europe in 2010, World of Coffee has consistently set new records as the largest and most influential coffee trade show, bringing together thousands of professionals from across the specialty coffee supply and value chain. The Specialty Coffee Association plays a pivotal role as a global convener, helping businesses navigate international opportunities and challenges. Through World of Coffee San Diego, SCA will further its mission of connecting industry leaders, facilitating strategic partnerships, and providing a space for professionals to engage with emerging trends shaping the future of specialty coffee. Booking is now open for exhibitors on the show floor at World of Coffee San Diego 2026 and interested exhibitors are encouraged to contact the SCA at [email protected] to secure booth space. For sponsorship and partnership opportunities, please contact [email protected] for more information on supporting this event. The 2025 event, which will still be under the Specialty Coffee Expo name, will welcome more than 17,000 attendees from 85 countries to Houston, TX April 25-27. Educational programming included as part of the show's offering will cover the latest in sustainability, business innovation, scientific advancements, and specialty coffee trends. The expansive sold out Exhibition Hall will feature 649 exhibiting companies showcasing the best in coffee innovation, culture, and sustainability as well as networking opportunities that support commerce and trade. Registration for Specialty Coffee Expo is open at All SCA members receive a discount on registration. For sponsorship, exhibitor, or registration inquiries, email [email protected] or visit Specialty Coffee Expo. About the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) is the largest global coffee trade association dedicated to making coffee better by fostering a global coffee community and supporting activities to make specialty coffee a thriving, equitable, and sustainable endeavor for the entire value chain. Through collaboration and progressive approaches, it supports the industry through research, standards, education, and events. Working around the world, the SCA elevates worldwide standards, providing value and connectivity to the growing global community. To sponsor and support the Specialty Coffee Expo and the continued work of the SCA, contact [email protected]. To learn more, visit or follow @specialtycoffeeassociation on social media. # # # For further information, contact:
Associated Press
27-03-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Workshops and Lectures Announced for Specialty Coffee Expo 2025: Focused Hands-On Learning Across the Coffee Value Chain
Brand-New Learning Opportunities are Tailored Around Cupping and Retail Businesses HOUSTON, TX / ACCESS Newswire Specialty Coffee Expo, taking place in Houston from April 25-27, will feature an unparalleled educational program covering the latest in sustainability, business innovation, scientific advancements, and specialty coffee trends. Designed to empower coffee professionals at every level, this year's program includes over 60 complimentary lecture sessions and 25 interactive workshops available to attendees for an additional fee. 'Attendees of Specialty Coffee Expo expect immersive workshops and expert-led sessions as part of our series of lectures and workshops. The SCA has curated a stellar lineup of courses for coffee professionals looking to stay ahead in this ever-evolving industry,' said Kim Elena Ionescu, Chief Strategy Development Officer at the Specialty Coffee Association. 'These sessions offer invaluable opportunities to refine technical skills, explore market trends, discover innovative solutions, and gain insights from industry leaders shaping the future of specialty coffee.' Specialty Coffee Expo will be an opportunity for many to experience brand-new learning opportunities that are tailored around cupping and retail businesses, as part of the SCA's Education program. The Intro to Cupping Workshop forms part of the SCA's cupping education program that launches ahead of Specialty Coffee Expo -- the only program of its kind, built on the foundations of the Coffee Value Assessment and modern sensory science. The SCA Retail Business Education program launches with two in-person workshops taught by Laila Ghambari and produced in partnership with Simonelli Group and Coffee Knowledge Hub. Intro to Cupping - A brand-new, beginner-friendly, and inclusive experience designed to familiarize anyone without cupping experience to the foundational practices of cupping and sensory analysis. From Surviving to Thriving - How to Run a Profitable Coffee Shop - This workshop is designed exclusively for coffee shop owners or managers seeking to elevate their business game. Focus on honing business acumen while gaining invaluable insights into financial strategies, operational efficiencies, and essential practices to maximize profitability. Management and Leadership: Building a Better Business - Foster exceptional leadership and cultivate a motivated team: In this workshop, coffee shop owners and managers will learn proven techniques in effective communication, team empowerment, and cultivating a positive work culture. The workshops at Expo provide a unique, hands-on, problem-solving experience led by industry experts. These three-hour intensive sessions cover a wide range of topics, from roasting innovations and flavor profiling to financial strategies and sustainability practices. With limited spots available, attendees are encouraged to register early to secure their participation. Workshop focus areas include: Exploring Specialty and Business Growth - The first day of workshops delves into menu curation, pricing models, and operational success. Participants can explore specialty beverage diversification (Curating Your Menu: Exploring Specialty's Supporting Players), espresso calibration (How to Dial in Espresso), and financial sustainability (From Surviving to Thriving - How to Run a Profitable Coffee Shop). For those focused-on coffee quality and innovation, sessions like Roast Revolution: Exploring Cutting-Edge Innovations in Coffee Roasting Techniques and The Alchemy of the Pour: Mastering Latte Art Techniques provide hands-on skill-building. Sensory Skills and Market Strategy - Day two offers a deep dive into cupping, flavor analysis, and financial planning. Workshops such as Working Towards Cuppers' Alignment in Descriptive Assessment and Tastes Like Tropical Fruits: Understanding Fruit Flavors and Aromas from the Tropics enhance sensory skills, while business-focused sessions like The Profitable Cafe: Financial Strategies for Sustainable Success and Crafting Connections: A Market-Readiness Workshop for Green Coffee Producers and Exporters equip entrepreneurs with essential tools to thrive in competitive markets. Advanced Techniques and Future Trends - The final day features specialized workshops aimed at seasoned professionals looking to refine their craft and business strategies. Past Crop Profiling: A Roaster's Guide to Blending offers insights into advanced roasting techniques, while Coffee Buying: Sourcing, the C Market, and Contracts provides essential knowledge for those navigating global coffee sourcing. Additionally, Perspectives from a Futurist: Designing More Future-fit Coffee Value Chains presents a forward-looking approach to sustainability and innovation in the coffee industry. With a focus on education, sustainability, and technological advancements, Expo also features a lineup of complimentary expert-led lectures covering crucial topics, including: Breaking into the Industry: Sessions like 'How to Get Started in the Mobile Coffee Industry' and 'What is Specialty Coffee?' provide foundational insights for aspiring coffee entrepreneurs. Gender Equity and Social Impact: 'Women, Coffee, and Climate Change: Addressing Vulnerabilities and Innovations in Uganda's Coffee Value Chain' and 'The Role of Women in the Sustainable Development of the Coffee Industry: The Case of Rebuild Women's Hope Cooperative in the Democratic Republic of Congo' highlight initiatives empowering women and fostering sustainability in coffee-producing regions. Sustainability and Climate Action: 'Coffee, Carbon, and Biodiversity: A Blueprint to Improve Sustainability Initiatives,' 'Deforestation-Free Specialty Coffee: Ethiopia's Semi-Forest and Community-Driven Model,' and 'Shared Value through Regenerative Agriculture and Circular Economy' will address environmental challenges and solutions within the coffee industry. Business Growth and Innovation: From 'Opening a New Café? Design it Right - Build it Once' to 'The Evolving Coffee Industry: Career Paths and Possibilities,' attendees will gain insights into business expansion, automation, and consumer trends. Technology and Coffee: With sessions like 'Coffee and Technology: How AI and IoT are Shaping the Coffee Industry' and 'Controlling Automation: Adjusting Flavor Profiles in Automatic Machines,' Expo will showcase how modern tech is revolutionizing coffee production and consumption. Specialty Coffee Expo, produced by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), will welcome more than 17,000 attendees from 85 countries, showcasing the best in coffee innovation, culture, and sustainability as well as networking opportunities that support commerce and trade. The expansive Exhibition Hall will feature 649 exhibiting companies including Title Sponsor Middleby Coffee Solutions Group, Diamond Sponsor Sanremo Coffee Machines and Platinum Sponsor Pacific Barista Series. Peru will be featured as the Portrait Country. Registration for Specialty Coffee Expo is now open at All SCA members receive a discount on registration. For sponsorship, exhibitor, or registration inquiries, email [email protected] or visit Specialty Coffee Expo. About the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) is the largest global coffee trade association dedicated to making coffee better by fostering a global coffee community and supporting activities to make specialty coffee a thriving, equitable, and sustainable endeavor for the entire value chain. Through collaboration and progressive approaches, it supports the industry through research, standards, education, and events. Working around the world, the SCA elevates worldwide standards, providing value and connectivity to the growing global community. To sponsor and support the Specialty Coffee Expo and the continued work of the SCA, contact [email protected]. To learn more, visit or follow @specialtycoffeeassociation on social media. # # # For further information, contact:
Globe and Mail
05-03-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
World of Coffee Geneva 2025 to Showcase 450+ Specialty Coffee Brands, Innovations, and Cutting-Edge Technology June 26-28
A Must-Attend Event Bringing Together 13,000 Coffee Professionals, Enthusiasts, and Innovators from Around the Globe GENEVA, SWITZERLAND / ACCESS Newswire / March 5, 2025 / World of Coffee Geneva 2025 marks the final opportunity for companies to exhibit at a Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) trade show in the 2024-2025 cycle, following the wildly successful World of Coffee Dubai, Specialty Coffee Expo (sold out show floor) and World of Coffee Jakarta (sold out show floor). This highly anticipated event will welcome 13,000 international coffee professionals from every part of the specialty coffee value chain, from producers to C-suite executives of large, multinational companies to the Palexpo SA in Geneva, Switzerland, from June 26-28, 2025. "World of Coffee Europe is thriving in a period of remarkable growth, with increasing attendance and a growing number of exhibitors and sponsors recognizing the immense value of in-person engagement," said Yannis Apostolopoulos, CEO of the Specialty Coffee Association. "Switzerland is home to some of the world's most innovative companies and has become an epicenter of specialty coffee study, innovation, technology, and business. World of Coffee Geneva is the only European event dedicated to amplifying and enriching the entire specialty coffee supply and value chain. We invite companies aligned with our mission to Make Coffee Better to join us." World of Coffee Geneva is the largest European event dedicated to specialty coffee professionals. It offers unparalleled opportunities to showcase products and innovations to an audience of buyers, roasters, and industry leaders; build credibility and expand brand awareness among 13,000+ international attendees; strengthen business relationships with key decision-makers in the coffee industry; and gain direct access to high-value customers, with 25% of attendees planning to invest over $1 million. This event is proudly supported by leading sponsors: Attendees, many who are industry changemakers, will engage with key players from Swiss-based coffee leaders and global innovators, including Nestlé Professional, Blaser Trading, Danstar, Eversys, Fonte Drinks, Thermoplan, Animo, Rex Royal, EC Success Food Sàrl, Ferrum Analytics, Gilda Kaffeemaschinen AG, HACO Ltd., Hamburg Coffee Company (HACOFO), La Dame de Café, Oatly, Olympia Express, Seb Professional, Sucafina, System-Partikel-Technik Sympatec GmbH, Swiss Trading Solutions, Voghera Coffee, Volcafe, WIPF AG, ZURIGA, and many more. One of the most vibrant areas on the trade show floor, the Roaster Villages, provides a unique platform for small and emerging roasting companies to connect with attendees, showcase specialty coffees, and attract new wholesale customers and brand partnerships. This high-energy section fosters innovation, collaboration, and visibility among coffee professionals. Additionally, exhibitors and Roaster Village participants can engage attendees through exclusive experiences such as the Cupping Rooms, with dedicated spaces for producers, distributors, roasters, and wholesalers to present their coffees to potential buyers and traders. World of Coffee Geneva 2025 will highlight Europe's vibrant coffee roasting industry, featuring participants such as 17g Coffee, 2:AM, A Planter's Daughter, ANÄNA COFFEE FOOD, BB Coffee Company GmbH, Bean In Progress Coffee Roasters, Benesso Coffee, Boreal Coffee Roasters Sarl, CAFE GRANJA LA ESPERANZA SACI, Capadócia Coffees Comercio de Cafes Especiais LTDA, Clearpath Coffee, Cloud Picker, COFFEE BIRD LIMITED, COFFEE PIRATES About Coffee GmbH, COFFEE REPUBLIC S.A., Coffee Roasting Man, Cofinet, Corde Coffee Sarl, CTS GROUP SRL, Dabov, Daterra Coffee, Dimitri's Coffee, DRIP COFFEE GMBH, DROPSHOT, Fazendas Dutra, Four Hundred (MG) Coffee Roastery, Hacienda La Esmeralda, Haskos- Caffe' Luigi Ltd., Herz & Son GmbH, HORACE CAFE, INCONEXUS SAS, Istmo Producers Collective GmbH, JNP Coffee, KÁVOHOLIK s. r. o., KROSS COFFEE ROASTERS, Lykke Coffee Farms, Mae Coffee, Mare Terra Coffee, Miro Coffee, Monte Alegre Coffees, Noordpoort Coffee BV, Ocafi, Ojo de Café, Ojo GmbH, Omwani Coffee Company LTD, ORIOLI COFFEE LDA, Plotcoffee GmbH, Prana Chai Europe GmbH, Primrose Specialty Coffee, Recanto Farm, Rent a Barista GmbH, Sensorio Coffee Lab, Spojka Roastery s.r.o., Stoll Kaffee AG, Stow Coffee Roasters, Taf Coffee, TERRES ET HOMMES, The Brick Coffee Roastery, The Coffee Board e.K, The Goodlife Coffee, and many more. "World of Coffee Geneva 2025 is the ultimate venue for launching new products, connecting with key buyers, and securing game-changing partnerships. With direct access to thousands of industry professionals, media, and high-value customers - 25% of whom plan to invest over $1 million - this event offers unparalleled opportunities for business growth," Apostolopoulos added. "Beyond business, World of Coffee Geneva is a celebration of coffee culture, uniting professionals passionate about coffee quality, sustainability, and innovation." In addition to the expansive trade show floor featuring 450+ exhibiting companies, attendees can engage with several unique activations, competitions, and educational opportunities, including: World Coffee Championships - World Latte Art Championship, World Coffee in Good Spirits Championship, World Cup Tasters Championship, and Cezve/Ibrik Championship Best New Product Competition Coffee Design Awards 30+ Cupping Sessions 2 Roaster Villages SCA Lecture Series & Workshops Coffee Business Lounge Green Coffee Connect Registration for World of Coffee Geneva 2025 is now open at with early bird discounts available until March 31, 2025. SCA members receive exclusive registration discounts. Interested in Exhibiting or Sponsorship? Space is limited, and past events have sold out. Take advantage of this opportunity to connect with 13,000+ coffee professionals. Contact Margaret Andreucetti at margareta@ or sponsorships@ Live floor plan access is available here. The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) is the largest global coffee trade association dedicated to making coffee better by fostering a global coffee community and supporting initiatives that drive specialty coffee as a thriving, equitable, and sustainable industry. Through collaboration and progressive approaches, the SCA supports the industry through research, standards, education, and events. Working worldwide, the SCA elevates coffee quality standards while connecting a growing global community. To sponsor and support the World of Coffee and the continued work of the SCA, contact sponsorships@ Learn more at or follow @specialtycoffeeassociation on social media. # # # View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire
WIRED
19-02-2025
- WIRED
The Aarke Coffee System Offers Promising Innovation With Some Fiddling
A coffee maker's purpose is not to be beautiful. I have to tell myself this when looking at Aarke's new drip coffee maker, because the Aarke Coffee System is beautiful. This fact could serve to distract me from other important things. The Aarke is Swedish, designed by Swedes in the Swedish modernist design tradition. But it also looks a little like a full Turkish tea service has been reimagined as a shiny new gasworks. It fills me with longing for a life I don't lead: functional, clean, freed from the messiness of a world marked by trivial disappointments. Including a flat-burr grinder, the entire system costs north of $700, which is perhaps the price of such a life. The Aarke is part of a quiet renaissance among drip brewers, which had long been sidelined in the luxury world by espresso and pour-over. But a new generation of machines aims to elevate the home drip coffee game to the stuff of true connoisseurship, bringing out the most delicate flavors from premium beans at minimal effort on your part. Photograph: Matthew Korfhage The Aarke is among just a couple dozen brewers now certified by the international Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) as being capable of maintaining enormous precision in every particular: temperature, brewing time, coffee extraction, and probably also the purity of heart. The number of certified makers has doubled in the past half-decade. But the Aarke, with its shiny stainless steel exterior and modern industrial minimalism, just might be the fanciest-looking of the bunch. Beneath its flashy reflective exterior, there some quite interesting engineering going on. The Aarke also offers a capability unlike any drip coffee setup I've tested: It promises to grind the exact right amount of fresh coffee beans for each batch of drip, using a sensor that measures whatever random amount of water you've freehanded into it. Wild stuff! More on that later. So Shiny, So Chrome At the most basic level, the Aarke is a thoughtfully designed coffee maker, much like the carbonation system the company is best known for. Whatever its sophisticated sensors, it requires little effort to learn. It feels old-school. At 15 inches high it's not small by any stretch, but its heft could also be described as sturdiness. The Aarke also has what phone people like to call 'haptics.' The brew basket slides in with a satisfying mechanical clunk, and even the device's sole button offers pleasing resistance. When you pour water in, the tank glows a subtle blue in response. This is the discreet way the Aarke says hello each morning. There are no beeps anywhere, no noises that aren't grinding or brewing. To start a brew, just add the appropriate amount of ground coffee to a standard No. 4 conical filter in the basket. Then, press the button. Press that button quickly, it'll brew like a standard drip coffee maker. Press it for three seconds until the little light turns on, and it'll first bloom the coffee by wetting it down and waiting for trapped carbon dioxide to escape from the fresh-ground beans.
