Anyone tried these guys? They have displaced 49th Parallel and Origins as my favorite roaster. I've gone through a couple pounds now and I'm very impressed. I'm not usually one for the citrus blends but this one does it for me. The window for error is also quite large. I've brewed +/- 5 degrees with only slight change in taste but I wouldn't even call the change bad, just different. Picking up a new bag today! Sadly their website seems to be non existent. I will inquire about that today

Hey nixter,

I ride by Rocanini (on W. 5th) every day, so consider me intrigued.

Can you recommend a particular blend/roast? I was thinking I'd start with the cheapie "No.3 Espresso" blend and suss things out from there...

Yeah I've pretty much stuck with the number 3 so far and Im a happy camper!

You're on, then!

I'll give it shot (no pun intended) and report back with my findings.

And hey, $11.00/lb definitely qualifies as "recession-friendly" pricing if you ask me.

$11? I seem to recall it being more typically priced, $16-$18 or something like that. You're sure you're not looking at the 1/2 lb?

Yes, apparently as of today, a pound equals 227g.

In other words, I need to brush up on my conversions.

It's a little too expensive for my wallet. I had a SO shot at the W. 5th location and while it was good, it wasn't what I was looking for. I specifically wanted a shot of their espresso blend and for some reason, it wasn't available? Anyway, gave them another chance at their Steveston location. Preparation was mediocore and the shot overall I think could have been better.

Then again, I went on a weekend afternoon. Could've been rookie staff for all I know. In all honesty though, there are better options and roasters out there. $18 for 1/2 a lb. is outrageous.

In fairness, I believe the "No. 3 Espresso" in question is actually $11.00 for a 1/2 pound, which is more or less in keeping with the average price for beans from a quality local roaster. That said, while I wouldn't necessarily judge a roaster based on two iffy pulls, it's disappointing to hear about your less than great experiences at Rocanini. Maybe chalk it up to Vancouver's "inconsistent barista syndrome"...?

For my part, I'm still pretty green with pulling shots at home. I acquired a snazzy old Caravel a couple of weeks ago and have been getting good to great results with a few different JJ Bean single origins, but now I'm looking for a more traditional "comfort" espresso blend--less citrus, more chocolate.

Suffice to say, I'm open to suggestions!

Yes, I believe it's the half pound at $11 and the full pound at $18 or thereabouts. Funny you should mention the "Inconsistent barista syndrome". I believe that to be very true in Vancouver. Although I'm certain we're not unique. Here's my experience with Rocanini. I was on contract for a couple months just 2 blocks from their 5th ave location. I was there twice a day for 2 months without fail. During this time I was served by 2 different baristas. One served me liquid heaven, consistently. The other served me average upper tier cafe quality espresso. So yes, it comes down to the barista. What sold me on Rocanini initially was the one barista who hit it out of the park, serving me probably one of the top 3 shots i've ever tasted. I bought the number 3 beans and proceeded to make some of my best espresso ever at home.

I do tend to be wary of SO's. I have no doubt they can be amazing but to me it seems that the stars must align for this to happen. Much patience and dialing is required to get at their gold. I have the patience but typically don't have the time as my "espresso'ing" is relegated to about 7 minutes each morning. Again, this is just my experience. That being said I find I'm typically disappointed with SO's in cafe's as well. Maybe I just haven't had the right one.

I thought I was out of my mind but no joke - at one point they were selling 1/2 for $18. I thought I over paid until another friend of mine paid the same price.

Any way, they're out of my way and not the most convenient for me so I won't be going back. I know they have a very good barista at their W. 5th location but I can't say the same for their Steveston location.