Who are you and what is your position at BOOT?
My name is Tim van der Molen, I am 22 years old and working as a logistics & production employee at BOOT Koffie. I am responsible for carefully packaging the coffee and making sure the logistics run smoothly. Beyond that, I am also training to become a coffee roaster. From Rick and Arnout, I learn the intricacies of the roasting process - from choosing the right roasting profiles to developing the flavor. As a result, I am gaining more and more insight into how to use precision and passion to transform green coffee beans into something people really enjoy. My ambition is to become a full-fledged coffee roaster!

Why do you work with coffee?
My love for coffee began at home, where I experimented with a moka pot and a French press from my parents' kitchen cabinet. What started as a hobby slowly grew into a real passion that has always stuck. After trying a few different studies, I knew for sure: I want to do something that really makes me happy. That's how I eventually ended up in the world of coffee - a profession that combines craft, experience and taste.

What is your most memorable moment as a coffee professional?
It was when, as a novice barista, I served my first cappuccinos that were approved by my colleagues. It was exciting to bring those cups to guests. Then when I received some compliments like "so that was tasty" or "what a beautiful heart," it felt like a huge affirmation. This gave me the confidence and motivation to want to develop further in the profession.

In your opinion, what is a coffee that everyone should try?
A freshly roasted natural! The distinct fruity flavor notes like blackcurrant, passion fruit or even lychee. They really are eye-openers that show how versatile and vibrant coffee can be. For me, this was the moment I realized that coffee is much more than the bitter cup from the supermarket; it is a taste experience. For a nice espresso (brewed with the moka pot, for example) I recommend the Brazil Santos Espresso, a natural with flavors of chocolate, nuts, brown sugar & stone fruit. And for filter coffee, I like to choose the Colombia Kachalu Organic Filter, for its delicate flavors of dried fruit, chocolate & cane sugar.