Bob Cutler hosts Matt Bolinder, owner of the Maine-based coffee roastery Speckled Ax, in this episode of Cocktails with Friends, to explore craft coffee and whiskey pairings. From wood-roasting techniques to the flavor intricacies of espresso martinis, Matt shares the origins of Speckled Ax, his passion for coffee, and details of the annual Advent Calendar featuring unique roasts each day, giving listeners a chance to refine their tasting skills. Together, they reflect on the art of brewing and the influences shaping coffee culture, making this episode a flavorful journey for coffee and whiskey enthusiasts alike.

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EPISODE INDEX

**(0:16)** Bob and Matt discuss the challenges of wood-roasting coffee and maintaining precise temperature curves to achieve the perfect roast.

**(1:01)** Matt highlights Speckled Ax’s partnerships, recommending a past conversation on Graining In that covers the roastery’s history in detail.

**(3:47)** Bob creates an espresso martini using Matt’s coffee, Macallan single malt, and a dash of brown sugar, crafting a unique cocktail that bridges coffee and whiskey flavors.

**(9:57)** Matt explains the Speckled Axe Advent Calendar, a popular holiday feature that offers 25 different coffee samples to help customers deepen their tasting knowledge.

**(19:48)** They reflect on Starbucks’ impact on coffee culture, recognizing its role in popularizing high-quality coffee while discussing the benefits of local roasting.

KEY TOPICS

1. **Craft Coffee and Wood-Roasting Techniques** – Matt describes the complex process of wood-roasting coffee with Maine hardwoods, a technique that sets Speckled Ax apart.

2. **Coffee and Whiskey Pairing** – The episode highlights a coffee-whiskey cocktail, showing how both beverages can enhance each other’s flavors.

3. **Evolution of Coffee Culture** – They discuss how major brands like Starbucks have changed consumer expectations and paved the way for specialty coffee shops.

INSIGHTS

**Wood-roasting coffee requires intense precision, as specific temperature curves bring out the best flavors in the beans.

**Trying diverse coffee types, such as those in the Speckled Ax Advent Calendar, can help enthusiasts build a deeper understanding of coffee’s complexities.

**Brands like Starbucks may have commercialized coffee, but local roasters provide a unique craft experience that emphasizes quality over quantity.