The Flamenco Organic Coffee Company began in 2004 when the Minnesota cafe distributor Upper Midwest Gourmet began to grow. Long time employee Jesse Grote was picking orders and driving the van when he was approached about an opportunity to begin roasting coffee. Competition was thick in Minneapolis, so Jesse did his homework before purchasing a roasting machine and establishing a concept. One thing was for sure: the coffee needed to be as high-quality as it was socially aware.
After excelling in Willem Boot’s training courses in California, Jesse began his search for the best coffees that were both Fair Trade and organic certified. Jesse became diligent and proficient in sample roasting to ensure the best possible FTO options. Flamenco grew larger through the years, with customers ranging throughout the Midwest. In October 2008, Flamenco brought on roaster’s apprentice Alan Erbach to help increase production. Now roasting full-time, Alan works beside Jesse as they continue to offer one of the largest selections of roasted Fair Trade and organic coffee in the country.
Flamenco coffees are roasted with a Primo roasting machine in small batches. Jesse is a member of the Roaster’s Guild. Many coffees they select are separately involved with programs, like the Rainforest Alliance, Café Femenino, and bird-friendly organizations. Since they started in 2005, Jesse and Alan have won several awards for their Flamenco Organic coffees, including the best regular and decaf coffees at the Calhoun Coffee Festival in 2008 AND 2009 in Minneapolis.