Fogbuster Coffee Works

Disclosure: I received a generous gift of coffee — ground for drip and ready-to-go, canned cold and latte variety — from Fogbuster Coffee Works. Though this write-up was not obligated, I enjoyed the coffee very much and wanted to highlight the company and its unique roasting method.

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Fogbuster Coffee Works, originally founded as Pierce Brothers Coffee Roasters, has carved a unique niche in the coffee world with its commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovative roasting techniques. The company rebranded to Fogbuster Coffee Works, taking its name from its popular super dark roast — a bold, rich blend that embodies its dedication to distinctive flavors. Specializing in organic, fair trade coffee, Fogbuster sources beans responsibly, ensuring ethical practices and environmental stewardship. This commitment resonates with coffee enthusiasts who value both taste and conscience in their daily brew.

I tried Smoldering Volcano, Espresso 9 Bar, and The Original Fogbuster, roasts being medium to super dark. The most notable thing about these coffees are how smooth they are. Very little acidity — just a smooth cup of coffee. Apparently, I have the process to thank for that.

What sets Fogbuster apart is its rare air roasting method — a method used by less than 5% of roasters worldwide. During this process, coffee beans float on a bed of hot air, allowing them to expand naturally and shed the outer husk without the risk of burning, as can happen in traditional metal drum roasters. The result is a smoother, less acidic coffee with a clean, consistent flavor profile. This gentle roasting technique also ensures freshness and quality.

I’d say they nailed it.

Fogbuster’s offerings span a wide range of blends, from light to super dark roasts. Their French roast and espresso roast deliver robust, classic flavors, while seasonal blends like its Winter Blend is infused with chocolate, hazelnut, and cinnamon. Creative options such as Moose on the Loose, which blends chocolate and raspberry, and Chewy Gooey Cookie, with notes of cinnamon, sugar, and vanilla, showcase Fogbuster’s flavored varieties. Single-origin roasts and an array of other flavored varieties further expand their options, ensuring something for every coffee lover.

Beyond traditional roasts, Fogbuster has embraced innovation by expanding into nitro cold brew, K-cups, and even a coffee spice rub, perfect for culinary experimentation. Whether you’re savoring a meticulously air-roasted single-origin pour-over or enjoying the convenience of a K-cup, Fogbuster Coffee Works delivers coffee rooted in tradition, innovation, and a passion for quality.

Taste test results:

Smoldering Volcano

Smoldering Volcano — coffee beans from Honduras and Sumatra — is a medium roast with notes of dried fruit and sugarcane. Not sure I have any idea what a note of dried fruit might taste like (aside from lending a slight tangy background) but this coffee is very good. It brews as a bold cup of coffee that isn’t overly dark. It’s smooth and easy to drink.

Espresso 9 Bar

Espresso 9 Bar features coffee beans from Colombia, Honduras, Peru, and Sumatra and is crafted as a dark roast. It’s labeled as an Italian-style espresso with caramel notes. As someone who gravitates toward dark roasts, I don’t find it that dark but it is excellent. It’s smooth, bold, and quite enjoyable.

The Original Fogbuster

Fogbuster Coffee Works doesn’t divulge the origin of the beans used for its Original Fogbuster coffee — it’s labeled “Top Secret.” The coffee is described as stout roast with a hint of smoke. Indeed, it’s a super dark roast that features a deep, rich, and bold taste with a smoky background. But it’s not overly dark, despite the “super dark” roast label, and is rather smooth. It’s a good cup of joe.

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