Published by SpecialityCoffee.ca
Black & White Coffee Roasters stands at the forefront of modern specialty coffee innovation. Based in North Carolina, Black & White has built a global reputation for pushing boundaries—particularly through experimental processing, fermentation-driven flavor development, and a competition-inspired approach to roasting.
At SpecialityCoffee.ca, we curate roasters who challenge convention while maintaining technical excellence. Black & White embodies that balance perfectly.
The Origins of Black & White Coffee Roasters
Black & White Coffee Roasters was founded by former U.S. Barista Champions, bringing a competitive, performance-oriented mindset into commercial roasting. From the outset, their goal was not simply to roast “clean” or “correct” coffee—but to explore what coffee could become when processing, fermentation, and roast development are used as creative tools.
Operating out of North Carolina, Black & White quickly distinguished itself from traditional specialty roasters by embracing coffees that were bold, expressive, and intentionally different. Their rise was fueled by a growing global interest in experimental coffees and a new generation of drinkers eager for sensory exploration.
A Competition-Driven Philosophy
Competition coffee plays a central role in Black & White’s identity. Unlike many roasters who distance themselves from competition culture, Black & White openly embraces it.
This influence shows up in:
- Coffee selection focused on flavor impact
- Roast profiles designed to maximize aroma and sweetness
- Processing choices that elevate uniqueness over uniformity
Every release is evaluated not only for balance, but for memorability—a key criterion in competition settings and a defining trait of the brand.
Experimental Processing as a Creative Medium
Perhaps no roaster is more closely associated with modern experimental processing than Black & White.
They work extensively with:
- Anaerobic fermentations
- Extended natural processes
- Co-fermented coffees (with fruit, yeast, or bacteria introduced during fermentation)
Rather than treating processing as a background variable, Black & White uses it intentionally—much like a winemaker or brewer would—to design specific flavor outcomes.
This approach results in coffees that are often:
- Intensely fruit-forward
- Wine-like or tropical in character
- Deeply aromatic and textured
These coffees challenge traditional expectations and invite drinkers to rethink what specialty coffee can taste like.
Roasting Philosophy: Supporting the Process, Not Muting It
Despite the intensity of their green coffees, Black & White’s roasting philosophy remains disciplined and deliberate.
Their roasting focuses on:
- Preserving volatile aromatics developed during fermentation
- Maintaining structure and sweetness
- Avoiding roast flavors that overshadow processing character
Roasts tend to fall in the light to light-medium range, allowing the coffee’s inherent boldness to shine without tipping into harshness or imbalance.
In the Cup: What to Expect from Black & White Coffees
Black & White coffees are unmistakable in the cup. While profiles vary widely depending on origin and process, common sensory themes include:
- Explosive fruit intensity (berries, tropical fruit, stone fruit)
- Juicy, wine-like acidity
- Dessert-style sweetness
- Heavy mouthfeel and lingering finishes
These are coffees that command attention. They are often conversation starters—ideal for experienced coffee drinkers looking for something beyond traditional washed profiles.
Who Are Black & White Coffees For?
Black & White is not a “safe” roaster—and that is by design.
Their coffees are best suited for:
- Adventurous coffee drinkers
- Specialty coffee enthusiasts
- Customers curious about fermentation-driven flavors
- Brewers who enjoy dialing in expressive coffees
They complement, rather than replace, ultra-clean Scandinavian or classic washed coffees by offering a contrasting experience within a curated lineup.
Why We Chose Black & White for SpecialityCoffee.ca
At SpecialityCoffee.ca, balance is key. We aim to showcase the full spectrum of modern specialty coffee—from elegant, minimalist roasts to bold, experimental expressions.
Black & White adds:
- Creative diversity to our catalog
- Access to cutting-edge processing trends
- A distinctly American innovation-forward perspective
They provide a counterpoint to roasters focused on restraint, offering Canadian customers the opportunity to explore coffee at its most expressive.
Featured Black & White Coffees to Explore
Our selection of Black & White coffees highlights the brand’s range and creativity, including:
- Anaerobic single origins with intense fruit character
- Co-fermented lots designed for maximum aromatics
- Competition-inspired releases showcasing rare processes
Each coffee is selected to represent a unique sensory experience while maintaining quality and balance.
Black & White Coffee Roasters: Expanding the Definition of Specialty Coffee
Black & White Coffee Roasters is not interested in playing it safe. Their work represents a bold, forward-looking vision of specialty coffee—one where fermentation, creativity, and technical expertise intersect.
For drinkers willing to explore beyond traditional flavor boundaries, Black & White offers a coffee experience that is dynamic, expressive, and unmistakably modern.
We are proud to feature Black & White on SpecialityCoffee.ca and invite you to experience coffee without limits.
