Ask the Roaster - Viktor from Fresh Black

How was the Roastery founded, what was the inspiration?

We have grown from mobile coffee shop with a dream to serve good coffee for people 12 years ago, to a company that imports green coffee, have its own production facilities, barista school, laboratory, R&D CENTER and supplies restaurants, hotels and coffeeshops, and also have own 5 cafes.

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

Cupping new samples - to think what will be next in our company. Sourcing is my favourite job.

What's your proudest accomplishment?

Long story of our company.... Small start - huge result

But the greatest achievement is our team, during 12 years we have 80 people working and creating something unique.

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

Early in the morning, you have 2 hours before the working day starts, you grind coffee beans in a coffee grinder, boil water, take your v60, pour water slowly.  There are rays of the sun, which play on the table surface through the leaves outside the window. The cup is filled with coffee. You sit on the balcony with the window open, listen to the fresh leaves and start your day.

What three words best describe your Roastery?

People - Innovation - Taste.

What is your favourite snack or treat to have to accompany your coffee?

Coffee like a wine every snack goes with different coffee, but we prefer to enjoy the coffee as it is. But) Once we have done a coffee pairing - 5 cups/5 dishes, and the most interesting for me was a pair of fermented and acidic Honduras with a taste of or pineapples, or natural wine or pickles with hummus and fresh egg yolk) that was really interesting and a little bit crazy.

What would you drink if there was no coffee?

Natural wine.

What is your favourite tasting notes to find in coffee?

Fruity and berry notes - Mango, strawberry, blackcurrant.

Where would you recommend for food and drink in your local area?

Kyiv: Nisha Bistro.

Finally, what Dog & Hat combination would you choose?

Pti Brabanson in pink panama.