FAQ

Quick answers to the questions we hear most. Don't see yours? Email hello@steffenmarkkus.com or call (424) 308-5187.

Freshness and roasting

When is my coffee roasted?

After you order. We combine orders for the same coffee and roast level into batches of a consistent size, roast them, and ship the day after roasting. Orders are roasted and shipped within one week. Order by the end of the day Friday (Pacific time) and your coffee will be on its way to you by Monday.

Why don't you ship the same day I order?

Because we don't keep roasted coffee sitting on a shelf. Your coffee is roasted for your order, so you receive it days after roasting instead of weeks or months.

How long should I rest my coffee before brewing?

There isn't one right answer. Some people enjoy coffee a day or two off the roast; espresso often benefits from more rest, and lighter roasts can take longer to open up. Taste it over several days and find what you like best.

How should I store my coffee?

Keep whole bean coffee tightly sealed in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight. If you won't use it all within about two weeks, freeze the extra: freezing slows aging and keeps whole beans fresh longer. You can freeze it in the bag it came in, or divide it into airtight portions so you only thaw what you need. Either way, let it come to room temperature before opening, so no condensation forms on the beans. Never refrigerate coffee, because the fridge introduces moisture and picks up the flavors of everything else stored there.

Ground coffee shouldn't be frozen or refrigerated. Keep it sealed in a cool, dry place and use it as soon as is practical. For the longest freshness, buy whole bean and grind just before brewing.

Choosing a coffee

Which roast level should I choose?

Light roasts are brighter and more fruit-forward, with more of the coffee's origin character. Medium roasts are balanced, with more sweetness and chocolate. Dark roasts are fuller-bodied and roastier, with less acidity. Each product page describes how that specific coffee changes across roast levels and which brew methods suit each.

Which grind should I choose?

Choose the grind named for your brewer: Cold Brew/Percolator (coarse), French Press (medium-coarse), Pour-Over (medium), Automatic Drip (medium-fine), Moka Pot (fine), or Espresso (extra-fine). If you have a grinder, Whole Bean stays fresh longest.

Do you have decaf?

Yes. Our decaf is decaffeinated using the Swiss Water Process, which uses water rather than added chemical solvents. See our decaf coffees.

Why do your coffees change?

Our single origins rotate with the harvests, and we rarely offer the same lot two years running. When one sells out, something new takes its place. Our blends, Vista del Oro and Espresso, are available year-round.

What is brewing cacao?

Roasted, ground cacao beans brewed like coffee or tea, usually in a French press. It makes a rich, chocolatey drink. See our brewing cacao and cacao brew guides.

Shipping and delivery

How much is shipping?

Shipping is free on orders of $29.95 and up. Below that, shipping is calculated at checkout.

How long does delivery take?

We ship via USPS, UPS, FedEx or DHL. Standard shipping typically takes 2 to 8 business days after your coffee ships. Holiday volumes and weather can add delays.

How do I track my order?

You'll receive an email or text with a tracking number when your order ships. Allow up to 48 hours for tracking to update.

Do you ship internationally?

Not at this time. We currently ship within the United States only.

Do you offer local delivery?

Yes, in San Pedro and Rancho Palos Verdes (ZIP codes 90731, 90732 and 90275). Choose Local delivery at checkout before paying; it appears as an option when your address is in a delivery ZIP code.

Gifts

Can I send coffee as a gift?

Yes. Our gift sets include three 6 oz coffees, a brew guide, a gift bag and a handwritten card. Enter your card message in the cart before checking out.

Returns and problems

Can I return coffee?

Because coffee is perishable and roasted for your order, we can't accept returns. If there was an error with your order, contact us within 30 days and we'll help. If a coffee isn't to your taste, we're happy to help you find one that is.

What if my package arrives damaged?

Email hello@steffenmarkkus.com with your order number and photos of the damaged item and shipping box, and we'll take care of it.