Alderbay Blog

Creating the perfect cup of coffee is both an art and a science. At Alderbay, we've spent years perfecting our brewing techniques, and today we're sharing our secrets with you. From bean selection to water temperature, every detail matters in crafting that perfect cup.

The journey begins with understanding your coffee beans. The origin, roast level, and grind size all play crucial roles in the final flavor profile. We source our beans from sustainable farms across Central and South America, each region bringing unique characteristics to your cup.

Water quality is often overlooked but equally important. We use filtered water heated to precisely 195-205°F (90-96°C) for optimal extraction. The brewing time varies by method - espresso takes 25-30 seconds, while pour-over requires 3-4 minutes for full flavor development.

Whether you prefer the bold intensity of our signature espresso or the smooth complexity of our cold brew, understanding these fundamentals will elevate your home brewing experience. Visit us to learn more about our techniques and taste the difference quality makes.

When we opened Alderbay five years ago, our vision was simple: create a space where community thrives over exceptional coffee. Today, we're proud to have become Calgary's living room - a place where strangers become friends, ideas are born, and connections are made.

Our design philosophy centers on warmth and accessibility. The rich brown tones of our furniture, combined with natural lighting and comfortable seating, create an atmosphere that encourages both conversation and contemplation. We've carefully balanced spaces for solitude with areas that foster interaction.

Regular customers like Sarah, who's written three novels at our corner table, or Michael, who met his business partner here over lattes, exemplify what we hoped to achieve. We're not just serving coffee; we're facilitating life's meaningful moments.

Sustainability isn't just a buzzword at Alderbay - it's a core value that guides every decision we make. From our direct relationships with coffee farmers to our waste reduction initiatives, we're committed to creating positive impact throughout our supply chain.

We work directly with sustainable farms in Guatemala, Colombia, and Ethiopia, ensuring fair wages and environmentally responsible farming practices. Our partnerships support organic farming methods that protect biodiversity and soil health while producing exceptional coffee.

In our cafe, we've implemented comprehensive recycling programs, eliminated single-use plastics, and source local ingredients whenever possible. Our pastries come from organic flour, and our milk is sourced from local Alberta farms that practice sustainable agriculture.

Every cup served at Alderbay represents our commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility. Join us in making a difference - one cup at a time.