No. Six Depot Coffee Roasters

In their quest to source exceptional coffees, North Six Depot Coffee Roasters embarks on biannual journeys to coffee-producing countries across the globe. These trips serve as opportunities to connect with coffee growers and gain firsthand insight into the origins of their beloved beverage. Their travels have taken them to diverse regions in Central and South America, Africa, Asia, and even the tropical paradise of Hawaii - wherever the cherished coffee bean thrives.

The experiences gathered during these voyages are woven into the fabric of their ongoing commitment to perfecting the art of roasting and preparing coffee. Moreover, these experiences serve as a means to enlighten their cherished customers about the intricacies of coffee cultivation and to contribute to the well-being of the coffee-growing communities they encounter.

Unwavering in their dedication to quality, they meticulously source coffee that meets specific criteria. Their selection is restricted to the top 10% of the Arabica species, known for its ability to yield delicate and flavorful coffee. To ensure optimum flavor, they seek beans cultivated at elevations ranging from 2000 to 6000 feet above sea level, in regions boasting an equatorial climate blessed with the right mix of rainfall, sunshine, and mild frost-free temperatures. This deliberate approach allows the coffee plants to mature slowly, imbuing each bean with the richest possible flavor.

Environmental consciousness guides their sourcing practices as well. They prioritize shade-grown coffee, which thrives within a natural environment characterized by an assortment of trees of varying heights. This approach not only benefits the quality of the coffee but also contributes to the welfare of migrating birds and eliminates the necessity for pesticides.

The commitment to excellence extends to the harvesting process. They insist on the labor-intensive practice of hand-picking coffee cherries on mountain terraces, ensuring only the ripest cherries make the cut. This stands in stark contrast to commercial-grade production methods that involve mass production and mechanical harvesting, often mixing ripe and unripe cherries.

Equally important is their dedication to the growers themselves. By partnering with farms and co-ops, they go beyond the call of duty, ensuring that fair wages are paid. The smaller scale of these operations means that the proceeds from their premium coffee products directly benefit the growers and their communities. Investments in schools, health clinics, and clean water sources underscore their commitment to fostering sustainable development in these regions. The farmers they work with are not just suppliers but are recognized as leaders within their communities.

While some of their coffee producers are certified organic, they recognize that many small co-ops and farms cannot afford such certifications, which can sometimes be impractical. Instead, they focus on sourcing coffee that adheres to sustainable practices, free from pesticides, and nurtured with natural fertilizers and compost. Every batch of coffee they offer is traceable to its source farm, where the documented practices validate the commitment to sustainability.

In their tireless pursuit of exceptional coffee, their mission goes beyond providing a great cup of joe. It encompasses a dedication to ethical sourcing, environmental responsibility, and community empowerment. With every sip of their coffee, customers partake in a journey that transcends borders, nurtures livelihoods, and celebrates the artistry of coffee cultivation.