Dark roast doesn't have to mean burnt. Louisville's Quills Coffee proves it with Night Owl, a meticulously sourced blend of Colombian and Honduran beans roasted to full development without sacrificing origin character. This is Quills' darkest offering to date—a departure born from their "Quality for All" ethos and a commitment to serving every palate without compromise.
Sourced from smallholder farms between 1,200 and 2,100 meters above sea level, Night Owl combines washed Bourbon, Caturra, Catuai, and Parainema varietals. The result is a coffee that balances bold body with surprising nuance: think rich chocolate cake sweetness, smooth caramel undertones, and a distinctive tobacco finish that adds complexity without harshness.
Tasting Notes
Night Owl opens with dark chocolate and molasses, evolving into layers of caramelized sugar and baking spices. The body is full and syrupy—coating without being heavy—while acidity stays low and round. The finish brings a sophisticated tobacco note, reminiscent of leather and cedar, that lingers without bitterness. This is a dark roast for people who thought they didn't like dark roasts.
Brew Methods
Night Owl shines as espresso, where its chocolate-forward profile and syrupy body create a classic, balanced shot with thick crema. It's equally compelling in French press, where the immersion method highlights its full body and caramel sweetness. Pour over enthusiasts will appreciate how it reveals layered complexity at lower ratios (try 1:16), while drip coffee drinkers will find it forgiving and consistent. This coffee also makes an exceptional cold brew—the tobacco and chocolate notes intensify beautifully with time.
About the Roaster
Quills Coffee, based in Louisville, Kentucky, has built its reputation on meticulous sourcing and thoughtful roasting. Night Owl represents their commitment to quality across the roast spectrum—proving that dark doesn't mean one-dimensional.
Not sure which grind size or brew ratio to start with? Clive's team can recommend settings for your specific equipment and help you dial in your setup to get the most from this versatile, origin-driven dark roast.