From Humble Beginnings to Roasting Dreams

Nestled in the heart of Black Forest, Colorado, Golden Pine Roasters is more than just a coffee roastery; it's a testament to community, passion, and the relentless pursuit of the perfect cup. Ryan, the owner and driving force behind Golden Pine, isn't new to the coffee scene.

His journey, spanning decades, has taken him from washing dishes to managing coffee bars and restaurants and, finally, realizing his dream of a dedicated roastery.

I first met Ryan in the early summer of 2024 at the Backyard Market in Black Forest, one of several local markets where he roasted and sampled several of his coffees.

What I found so fascinating was the attention to the farms' history, where his coffee came from, and his dedication to educating coffee enthusiasts about the distinct flavor notes of each profile.

A Legacy of Coffee, Community, and Resilience

Ryan's story begins in a humble Mexican restaurant, but his trajectory shifted dramatically while in college in Greeley. "I helped a friend open a coffee bar up there," Ryan recounts. "We were using Illy espresso, and it just so happened that when we got the shop's initial load in from the distributor, a rep from Italy was visiting the company."

This chance encounter led to formal Italian barista training, igniting a passion that would shape his career. The Italian rep didn't just drop off the espresso; he took the time to educate Ryan and his friend on the nuances of espresso preparation, pulling shots, steaming milk, and understanding the delicate balance of flavors that make a perfect cappuccino or latte. This wasn't just a job for Ryan; it was an education, a masterclass in the art of coffee.

“Every morning, recovery teams, firefighters, and displaced residents gathered in the shop, drinking coffee and planning the day's efforts.”

Get the full pour…

Golden Pine Roasters is more than just a coffee company—it is a reflection of Ryan's passion, resilience, and dedication to his craft. Find Ryan’s story in the inaugural issue of Local Coffee Talk Magazine—subscribe today to get your copy.

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