Here's Where Dutch Bros Sources Its Coffee From
Dutch Bros is known for fun, sweet, and approachable coffees, teas, energy drinks, and smoothies with catchy names like the Golden Eagle, Double Rainbro, Electric Berry, and Annihilator. With lots of flavored syrups, sweet drizzles, and whipped cream, these beverages are not necessarily designed to highlight the nuances of rare types of coffee. Just because the Oregon-founded joint prioritizes delightful combinations over austere coffee culture does not mean Dutch Bros is not putting any thought into where its beans come from.
Dutch Bros purchases three different varieties of coffee beans from plantations in Brazil, Colombia, and El Salvador. They are 100% Arabica and make up the company's signature Private Reserve Blend. Compared to bold and bitter robusta beans, arabica coffee tends to be sweeter and fruitier. This makes perfect sense for easy-drinking straightforward brews as well as popular items like the Cocomo — espresso and chocolate milk flavored with coconut syrup and finished with whipped cream.
Is Dutch Bros coffee organic?
Dutch Bros does not mandate any kind of organic certification from its coffee suppliers. A lengthy and tedious process is involved to be considered certified organic by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). In addition to start-up costs, detailed daily records and strict rules can make it prohibitively time-consuming and expensive for farmers to maintain. Furthermore, producers cannot share equipment with any non-organic operations, and they are barred from using inorganic pesticides and herbicides for a period of three years before being considered for certification. John Diaz, lead roaster and production manager at Dutch Bros explains, "Leaving plants unprotected for a period of years creates the perfect conditions for a fungus called leaf rust. It's devastating, and coffee is especially susceptible."
Instead of pushing farms to risk the loss of trees, Dutch Bros partners with producers who place a high value on quality, regardless of official certifications. The company also works to support healthcare, education, and water access in communities where coffee beans are sourced from through the Dutch Bros Foundation. Though there is not much transparency on the practices of the specific coffee growing operations, Dutch Bros insists that it is managing its supply chain in a way that provides both support for suppliers and delivers value to customers.
What does Dutch Bros coffee taste like?
Dutch Bros describes its Private Reserve Blend as being bold with well-balanced acidity and nutty and mild cocoa flavors. To try one of its iconic coffees in person, you will have to go to a Dutch Bros brick-and-mortar location in one of the many states where the company operates. If you don't live near one of these shops, you can purchase whole beans, ground coffee, and single-serve capsules online. The Winter Glow blend is also available seasonally. It uses beans from just El Salvador and Colombia — and features a citrusy and floral palate.
While the Dutch Bros menu favors coffee beverages with tons of syrupy add-ins, the chain also offers cafe mainstays like americanos, lattes, and cold brew. Fans love the sweet concoctions, but they also say the unsweetened options hold their own against offerings from similar establishments. Undoubtedly, the notoriously friendly staff and warm culture keeps people coming back.