Ask the Roaster - James from Bean Brothers

How was the Roastery founded, what was the inspiration?

The roastery was founded in 2012, Originally in the garage at my home in Huddersfield where I would wait till returning from work in our coffee shop 'Coffeevolution', when it was nice and dark I would start to roast coffee safe in the knowledge that my neighbours wouldn't complain at the plumes of white smoke appearing as the beans began to 'crack'. From there we moved into 'Bates Mill' an old textile mill (still working in part) which is home to many innovative businesses such as game designers and graphic design companies.

What's your favourite part about working at the Roastery?

We love working in the roastery because we also serve coffees to the mill inhabitants (when we are in) where we get to meet and chat to people excited by what they see as a "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" style machine (10kg drum roaster!).

What's your proudest accomplishment?

Haven't entered any awards thus far but think we ought to submit our products to the 'Great taste' team next year, there are a distinct lack of coffee roasting awards in the UK (genuine not paid for) and we would welcome more.

What’s your favourite place to enjoy a coffee, and what coffee would that be?

Favourite place to enjoy coffee is in my garden, a place of tranquillity with our roastery dog/mascot 'Smudge' a young Patterdale, the coffee I would currently choose is an Ethiopian natural 'Chelelektu' -Beautiful.

Finally, what Dog & Hat combination would you choose?

Patterdale in a Pith Helmet.