How’s it going? Hope the coffee is flowing! Today, I’m going to be talking to you about a new coffee I picked up at the Pennsylvania Chocolate and Coffee Festival. After enjoying two other coffees from this roaster, this week I’m excited to be brewing Barracks Baristas Freedom’s Ember.
The Roaster
Barracks Baristas was founded in 2022 by active-duty military members Jerry and Darrin. The idea came from another soldier in their unit who suggested that someone should open a coffee shop on base. Inspired by their shared passion for coffee, Jerry and Darrin decided to bring the idea to life.
Darrin has since retired and now focuses on helping to grow the business while living their mission of helping others. He specifically helps former military members struggling with mental health challenges and the transition back to civilian life.
Jerry and Darrin are great guys on an awesome mission. Let’s find out if Freedom’s Ember also keeps up their tradition of roasting delicious coffee!
When rating coffee I follow the same method of brewing each time. Find out about how I prepare French Press coffee here.
Barracks Baristas Freedom’s Ember Review
Characteristics and Flavor Profile
When ground, Freedom’s Ember releases a rich, dark chocolate fragrance with a subtle hint of earthiness.
| Freedom’s Ember | French Press | Pour-Over |
| Aroma | Light and chocolatey with a subtle hint of spice | Sweet and woody, cherrywood-like |
| Body | Medium-full body, feels like a dark roast should | Medium-light body, subtle mouth feel but the paper filter reduces the oil content |
| Start | Earthy and woody with a touch of spice | Coffee forward start, roasty with a very pronounced sweetness |
| Middle | Sweeter spice notes, cinnamon and clove-like | Roasty notes give way to a bold sweet chocolate flavor |
| Finish | Rich chocolately finish, sweet but well balanced with a mild creaminess | Notes of spice, sweet and not overpowering |
Overall Thoughts
Freedom’s Ember is another great offering from Barracks Baristas. It is easy to drink with bold and delicious flavors. This is a great example of what a Sumatran should taste and feel like.
The French Press brought out an impressive complexity, with well-balanced sweetness and a pleasant touch of earthiness. The pour-over, while slightly less complex, had a sweeter flavor profile and was an enjoyable cup. This would be a great coffee to introduce people to Sumatrans with, though the complexity and earthiness may not be suitable for a more casual coffee drinker.
I enjoyed both brew methods; however, I preferred the French Press. I loved the complexity of the cup with the earthy notes and bolder spice. The French press also had a nice creaminess in the finish that rounded out the experience beautifully.
Where to Purchase
You can find Freedom’s Ember along with all of the other coffee that Barracks Baristas offers on their website.
At a price point of $24.00 per pound, Freedom’s Ember is on the high side for a non-organic coffee. However, it’s a delicious coffee that is certainly worth trying! You can also get an 8oz bag for $14.00 ($28 per pound) if you want to sample it before committing to a full pound.
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