Big Riff from Portland's Metric Coffee represents a paradigm shift in dark roast coffee—proof that depth doesn't require bitterness. By sourcing seasonally rotating washed coffees from carefully selected farms across Central and South America, Metric achieves something rare: a dark roast that showcases sweetness and balance rather than char and ash.
Tasting Notes
Big Riff opens with a rich, enveloping aroma of dark cocoa and toasted nuts. The first sip reveals its signature milk chocolate backbone—sweet, creamy, and impossibly smooth. There's a subtle caramelized sugar note that adds complexity without veering into bitterness, while the finish lingers with a gentle, round sweetness. The body is luxurious and full, coating the palate with velvety texture. Acidity is mellow and integrated, providing just enough structure to keep the coffee from feeling heavy. This is a dark roast that prioritizes refinement over intensity.
Brew Methods
While Big Riff was designed with espresso in mind—and truly excels there—its versatility makes it a workhorse across brewing methods. As espresso, it pulls shots with thick crema and balanced sweetness that stands beautifully on its own or cuts through milk in lattes and cappuccinos without losing character. For pour over devotees, Big Riff offers a fuller-bodied alternative to lighter roasts, especially satisfying in a V60 or Kalita Wave. French press amplifies its creamy texture and chocolate notes, making for an indulgent morning cup. Even as cold brew, Big Riff maintains its signature smoothness while developing deeper caramel tones.
About Metric Coffee
Metric Coffee has built a reputation in Portland's exacting specialty coffee scene by focusing on precision roasting and transparent sourcing. Their approach to darker roasts like Big Riff demonstrates technical mastery—developing sweetness and body while preserving the inherent character of carefully selected beans.
Whether you're pulling shots at home or brewing your morning cup, Clive's team can recommend the ideal grinder settings and equipment pairings to bring out Big Riff's milk chocolate sweetness and balanced profile.