Where Did Black Rifle Coffee Start?
Black Rifle Coffee Company, commonly known as BRCC, is a popular coffee roaster and online retailer that has gained a massive following among coffee enthusiasts and outdoor enthusiasts alike. But have you ever wondered where this amazing coffee company started? In this article, we’ll take a journey to explore the origins of Black Rifle Coffee and how it became the beloved brand it is today.
The Founding Story
Black Rifle Coffee was founded in 2014 by Evan Hafer, a former Green Beret and Army Ranger. Hafer, who served in the US Army for 12 years, was stationed in various parts of the world, including Iraq and Afghanistan. During his time in the military, he developed a passion for coffee and learned to brew it in the field using a French press.
After leaving the military, Hafer struggled to find a coffee that met his standards. He was disappointed with the bland, mass-produced coffee available in most stores and decided to take matters into his own hands. With the help of his wife, Heather, and a small loan from a friend, Hafer started roasting coffee beans in his garage.
The Early Days
In the early days, Black Rifle Coffee was a small operation with a simple website and a handful of customers. Hafer spent countless hours perfecting his roasting techniques, experimenting with different blends and roasts, and building a loyal following among his fellow veterans and outdoor enthusiasts.
The Name and Logo
The name "Black Rifle Coffee" was inspired by Hafer’s military background and his love for firearms. The black rifle is a symbol of freedom and independence, and Hafer wanted his coffee company to reflect those values. The logo, which features a stylized black rifle and the company’s motto "Fueling Freedom," has become an iconic symbol of the brand.
The First Roast
Black Rifle Coffee’s first roast, "Liberty Roast," was a blend of Arabica and Robusta beans roasted to perfection in small batches. The Liberty Roast quickly gained popularity among coffee enthusiasts, who praised its rich, bold flavor and smooth finish.
Growth and Expansion
As Black Rifle Coffee’s popularity grew, so did its operations. Hafer expanded his team, hiring experienced roasters and baristas to help him meet the increasing demand for his coffee. The company also moved to a larger facility, allowing Hafer to increase production and experiment with new blends and roasts.
Key Milestones
Here are some key milestones in Black Rifle Coffee’s history:
- 2014: Black Rifle Coffee is founded by Evan Hafer in his garage.
- 2015: The company launches its website and starts selling coffee online.
- 2016: Black Rifle Coffee moves to a larger facility and expands its team.
- 2017: The company launches its first subscription service, "The Morning Grind."
- 2018: Black Rifle Coffee partners with the USO (United Service Organizations) to provide coffee to troops serving overseas.
- 2019: The company launches its first brick-and-mortar store in Tampa, Florida.
Today
Today, Black Rifle Coffee is a thriving coffee company with a loyal following of coffee enthusiasts and outdoor enthusiasts. The company has expanded its product line to include tea, hot sauce, and apparel, and has partnered with several other brands to create unique products and experiences.
Conclusion
Black Rifle Coffee’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and a commitment to quality. From its humble beginnings in Evan Hafer’s garage to its current status as a leading coffee roaster, Black Rifle Coffee has remained true to its values and has built a loyal following among coffee enthusiasts and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or just looking for a great cup of joe, Black Rifle Coffee is definitely worth checking out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Black Rifle Coffee:
- What is Black Rifle Coffee’s most popular roast? Black Rifle Coffee’s most popular roast is the Liberty Roast, a blend of Arabica and Robusta beans roasted to perfection in small batches.
- What is Black Rifle Coffee’s subscription service? Black Rifle Coffee’s subscription service is called The Morning Grind, which offers customers a monthly delivery of their favorite coffee beans.
- Does Black Rifle Coffee offer tea? Yes, Black Rifle Coffee offers a selection of teas, including black, green, and herbal blends.
- Does Black Rifle Coffee have a physical store? Yes, Black Rifle Coffee has a brick-and-mortar store located in Tampa, Florida.
Table: Black Rifle Coffee’s Roast Levels
| Roast Level | Description |
|---|---|
| Liberty Roast | A blend of Arabica and Robusta beans roasted to perfection in small batches. |
| Tactical Roast | A medium-dark roast with a smooth, balanced flavor. |
| Voodoo Roast | A dark roast with a bold, smoky flavor. |
| Bourbon Roast | A medium-light roast with a sweet, caramel flavor. |
Table: Black Rifle Coffee’s Subscription Options
| Subscription Option | Description |
|---|---|
| The Morning Grind | A monthly delivery of 12 oz of coffee beans. |
| The Daily Grind | A bi-weekly delivery of 12 oz of coffee beans. |
| The Weekly Grind | A weekly delivery of 12 oz of coffee beans. |
Table: Black Rifle Coffee’s Partnerships
| Partner | Description |
|---|---|
| USO | Black Rifle Coffee partners with the USO to provide coffee to troops serving overseas. |
| Mossy Oak | Black Rifle Coffee partners with Mossy Oak to create a line of coffee blends and apparel. |
| Tactical Gear | Black Rifle Coffee partners with Tactical Gear to create a line of coffee-themed gear and accessories. |
