Why You Might Like Alaska Coffee

By Krystal Branch


Alaska coffee is touted as special, uniquely different from what many are used to. Perhaps it's because of the cold, but Alaskans have a special relationship with coffee, which originates far from the frozen north. We are used to seeing Colombian beans celebrated, and roasters in Alaska use them as well as many others.

One striking feature of Alaskan highways is the many 'shacks' that line the roadsides. These tiny outlets sell pretty much two things: ice cream and espresso. Motorists can stay in their warn automobile interiors and get refreshed during a commute, trip, or errand run. These are drive-through establishments, without indoor seating, and use bright signage and all sorts of decorations to attract the eye of passers-by.

These days, of course, it's a global economy, so there's no reason that far north entrepreneurs should not have access to any raw material they can afford to import. Roasters of caffeinated brews speak of blends of beans from eight or ten different countries to achieve the taste and aroma they want. They also talk about the skill of the roasters and grinders on staff, whose special touch gives an excellence not to be found elsewhere.

With the internet, it's also a global marketplace. For this reason, Alaskan coffees have been attracting notice in the lower 48. Virtual shopping makes it possible to enjoy a cup of Outhouse Blend even in the land of indoor plumbing. Organic products are offered for those who want no chemical residues in their beverages and want to help keep our planet clean.

There are intriguing touches to many of the sites a search opens up, things that go far beyond flavor and variety. Some companies offer packages to help those who want to start a small business; with supplies and training, they can open up a Shack of their own. Others operate cafes in many cities and town, even in the lower 48. Some work with youth groups and ministries, and others are proud to support 'Buy Alaska' policies to boost their state and local economies.

When you need a surprise gift, consider a blend with a name like Deadman's Reach or Bison Blend. Bruin Blend and Wicked Wolf are other kinds that you can get in a sample pack or in larger sizes. The sampler comes in a gift tote that is useful long after the tasting experience is over.

There are intriguing names which evoke the wilderness, and others that speak of the effect some strong brews have on the drinker. Bison Blend, Tundra Mud, and Denali Mountain make you want to explore Alaska, while Fog Raiser and Resurrection Blend lets you know that these brews will bring you back to full awareness. Breakfast Blend may seem tame after the others, but it's recommended for that prized first cup.

Alaska coffee roasters have embraced free trade markets which support small growers in many countries with impoverished rural populations. Beans are imported from Peru, Mexico, Ethiopia, Colombia, Indonesia, and Guatemala, to name a few. You can get super strong brews like Skookum Blend or decaffeinated varieties. Whether you choose espressos, regular, or French roasts, you'll have new experiences in taste and aroma.




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