Who are you and what is your position at Boot?
I am Shiva Niet and I am the warehouse manager and coffee roaster. These days the warehouse work takes up most of my time. I am also responsible for the annual SKAL audit and its certification. SKAL certification allows Boot Koffie to continue selling the various delicious organically grown coffees.

Why do you work with coffee?
I am the same age as Boot Koffie (The Golden Coffee Box) and grew up with the Boot family's coffee from babyhood. The smell, the ringing of the beans while roasting, grinding and making a beautiful cup of coffee was, and still is, something magical for me. Even before I drank coffee, I enjoyed the wonderful aroma of freshly ground coffee. Well before Specialty Coffee came along, it was clear to me that something special was happening at this coffee (roaster). I have always wanted to be a part of that specialness.

What is your most memorable moment as a coffee professional?
Getting our current warehouse up and running. During corona time, we moved into the adjacent building. Dividing operations between the two properties and logistics in and out was a big task. 2015/2016 were also noteworthy years. During that time, I helped brew up the roastery at Het Lokaal in Amersfoort.

In your opinion, what is a coffee that everyone should try?
The Ethiopia Filter Organic. With a full but quiet flavor brewed in the MoccaMaster or full, uninhibited and adventurous poured in the cafetière. As an espresso, nothing beats the Brazil Santos for me. Change brings change, but for years I have enjoyed the Santos.