Consistency and Possibilities
For years, I’ve been roasting on the Diedrich IR12, working with small batches of 1.5 - 2.5kg for our filter coffees. This allows us to offer more than 20 selections at once while keeping control over quality. The IR12’s infrared burners deliver a consistent and controllable heat source- balancing conduction, convection, and radiant heat. With this drum load, the coffees often show a soft texture and rounded acidity, pronounced flavors with softness.
The machine doesn’t come with too many variables to adjust, but in a way, that’s a strength. It creates a stable range, making consistency more achievable.
Recently, we began roasting our filter coffees on the Stronghold S8X. Unlike the IR12, it offers three heat sources and a wide spectrum of airflow and blower controls. Suddenly, there’s room for so much more profiling, more ways to express what’s in the coffee.
At first, I felt both excitement and worry. The idea of “unlimited possibilities” also meant the potential for inconsistency. But over time, I learned to see it differently: not as stepping out of my comfort zone, but as expanding it. The Stronghold lets me explore more of the coffee’s spectrum with precision, while still staying true to our roast style.
Consistency remains the foundation, but now there’s also space for discovery.
Ving.
Every plant, tree or flower is giving off subtle energy. People, pets and places may have a subtle energy that can only be felt when you quiet yourself enough to be able to sense it.
/ 22 subtlety
