Roaster: Hydrangea (USA)
Farm/Producer: Gachatha F.C.S
Origin: Gachatha, Nyeri, Kenya
Varietal: SL-34, SL-28, Ruiru-11, Batian (Kenyan Varietals)
Process: Washed
Tasting Notes: Grapefruit, Berries, Black Currant
Roast Date: 11.10.2025 (frozen after 2 weeks)
https://beanl.ink/l/oCy7z5tX1Z
The Zürich Coffee Heist: Bill & Hydrangea Coffee Roasters
Today’s story is about Bill, the fantastic roaster behind Hydrangea Coffee Roasters, and the ridiculously long journey that led to our friendship.
I first met Bill through the MCL, where he posted a wild offer: he was traveling to Zürich and could bring a huge batch of Hydrangea coffee to save people on international shipping costs. I lived nowhere near Zürich, but I was always up for an adventure.
The plan was simple (and absurd): I’d book a night train from Hannover to Zürich, arrive in the morning, spend the day aimlessly exploring cafés, meet Bill to pick up my enormous order, and take the night train straight back to Hannover to report for work the next day. A 24-hour coffee-fueled round trip.
What happened next was an exchange of stories and ideas in a tiny wine bar. We almost got kicked out for the sheer size of the operation —transferring nearly 20 bags of coffee under the table, making a huge ruckus!
Financially, the entire trip—train tickets, city exploration, and all—ended up costing far more than if I had just paid the shipping fee. But the stories, the shared passion, and the wonderful friendship that blossomed from that chaotic meeting made the journey worth every single penny.
Bill’s supportive and, adventurous spirit is a huge part of why Bean Bodega exists. Cheers to him, and cheers to this incredible cup!
- Brrruuppp
