Located in the heart of Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, Dark Woods Coffee is a standout in the specialty coffee scene, known for its dedication to quality, sustainability, and craft. Co-founded in 2013 by Damian Blackburn, Paul Meikle-Janney, and Ian Agnew, this trio of coffee industry veterans set out to create a brand that would redefine the coffee experience through exceptional roasting, ethical sourcing, and a commitment to both people and the planet. Here’s why Dark Woods Coffee has become a beloved name among coffee enthusiasts.
A Journey of Passion and Craftsmanship
The journey into the world of coffee for Damian, Paul, and Ian began with a shared vision to craft exceptional, sustainable coffee. With backgrounds in various facets of the coffee industry, including roasting and sourcing, they recognised the need to produce a product that was not only exceptional in flavour but also grounded in ethics and environmental responsibility. From their humble beginnings in a small roastery in Huddersfield, the company quickly grew by embracing small-batch roasting, which allowed them to refine the roasting process and maintain the highest standards of quality.
Each coffee blend at Dark Woods tells a unique story—whether it’s about the partnerships with farmers in Colombia or the sustainable farming practices they support. The team places a strong emphasis on direct trade relationships with coffee farmers, ensuring that everyone involved in the coffee’s journey—from farm to cup—is treated fairly and with respect.
Damian, who has a deep passion for the craft of roasting, learned that coffee isn’t just about the beans themselves but also about the relationships built with the farmers and suppliers along the way. These collaborations allow Dark Woods to offer coffee that is consistently rich in flavour and complexity, while also ensuring that the farmers benefit from fair wages and long-term partnerships that promote sustainability.
Award-Winning Brews: Recognition for Excellence
Dark Woods’ commitment to quality hasn’t gone unnoticed. The brand has received multiple Great Taste Awards, often referred to as the “Oscars of the food world,” for its expertly crafted coffees. These awards are a testament to the brand’s dedication to producing top-tier coffee that stands out in a competitive market. Their beans, roasted with precision and care, have captured the attention of coffee connoisseurs and industry experts alike. For Dark Woods, it’s not just about making coffee—it’s about making a difference in every cup.
The Flavours of Dark Woods: Bold, Complex, and Memorable
What sets Dark Woods Coffee apart is its incredible range of flavours. Each blend and single-origin offering is carefully crafted to highlight the unique characteristics of the beans. Whether you’re sipping a light, fruity brew or indulging in a rich, dark roast, Dark Woods offers something for every palate. Their commitment to flavour diversity means there’s always something new to discover with every cup.
Some of their standout coffees include:
- Under Milk Wood: Inspired by the poetic imagery of Dylan Thomas’ famous work, Under Milk Wood is a blend that transports you to the misty landscapes of the Welsh coast. With notes of honey, caramel, and a touch of floral sweetness, this smooth, medium roast is a comforting yet complex brew, ideal for sipping slowly on a quiet morning.
- Colombia El Placer: If you’re looking for a coffee that is as vibrant and exciting as it is well-balanced, Colombia El Placer is a must-try. Known for its yellow fruit notes like ripe mango and apricot, this coffee has a bright, juicy flavour that bursts with freshness. With a smooth body and a subtle, lingering sweetness, it’s perfect for those who enjoy a clean, fruity cup with a touch of complexity.
- Black Hill: For lovers of bold, rich coffee, Black Hill is an absolute standout. A blend of deep, dark roasts, Black Hill boasts intense flavours of dark chocolate, roasted nuts, and a hint of smokiness. Its robust flavour profile and full-bodied mouthfeel make it an ideal choice for espresso lovers and those who enjoy a coffee that leaves a lasting impression.
Sustainability: A Commitment Beyond the Brew
At Dark Woods, sustainability is more than just a buzzword—it’s a core value that drives everything they do. The company works directly with farmers in coffee-growing regions across the world to ensure that every bean is sourced responsibly. By fostering close relationships with their suppliers, Dark Woods can ensure fair wages, better working conditions, and long-term sustainability for the farmers they partner with.
Their commitment to the environment extends beyond sourcing practices. Dark Woods uses eco-friendly packaging, including compostable bags and recyclable materials, to reduce waste and lower their carbon footprint. Additionally, their roastery operates with a focus on energy efficiency and waste reduction, ensuring that every step of their process is as environmentally conscious as possible.
The Dark Woods Experience: Coffee with a Purpose
What truly sets Dark Woods apart is its holistic approach to coffee. It’s not just about roasting the best beans—it’s about doing so with a deep sense of responsibility, care, and respect for both people and the planet. Whether it’s through sustainable sourcing, their commitment to small-batch roasting, or the unparalleled flavours they craft, Dark Woods Coffee offers more than just a caffeine fix—it offers a complete coffee experience.
For those who seek out quality, ethics, and unforgettable flavours in every cup, Dark Woods Coffee is more than a brand—it’s a movement towards a better, more sustainable coffee future. So, the next time you brew a cup, take a moment to savour the story in each sip. After all, coffee is about more than just flavour; it’s about the journey that gets you there.
