The piece is titled ‘Not Deer Teeth’, and is intended to be a depiction of the teeth of a Not Deer, a creature that I personally have witnessed.
The subject is an array of deer’s teeth (that I personally collected) as one might expect of a museum or other display, but the arrangement mimics that of a carnivore. Deer, or regular deer at least, do not have top front teeth, and they certainly do not have canines as this one appears to.
Cryptids and Coffee Volume 1 Issue 2
Cryptids and Coffee is a bi-monthly zine from the fine folks at the Ellijay Makerspace (EllijayMakerspace.org) about, well, legendary creatures and warm beverages. We’re fans of both, but there’s plenty to see for fans of either.
Why? Well, because we live in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, an area that has a rich tradition of weird critters and mind altering beverages. We’re just carrying that flag for the next generation, highlighting the unexplained, the unexplainable, and the best ways to keep yourself awake for 36 hours.
Also, sometimes we’ll talk about other stuff, I guess.
What it means to me has changed a lot since I started roasting. To most, coffee is just the black stuff that comes from an urn. You don’t think about where it comes from. All of the steps it takes to go from a thing that grows out of the ground to a liquid in your cup. Becoming a roaster, I have learned about the process, but I feel much closer to the source. When I open a bag of green beans, I can almost feel the connection to the farmers who grew it. That is the next thing I want to get into. It’s made me want to go back to the source and form a relationship with the people to grow the beans in the first place.
What is your favorite bean?
Ethiopian coffee beans are one of my favorites. These beans make me want to jump on a plane to Kembata and visit the farm they were grown on. I want to feel the soil between my toes and see where they grow this coffee. I am mildly obsessed, honestly. Right now, I am roasting Jackalope Joe, our Etheopean blend, and while I do that, I am listening to Etheopean Jazz. Mulatu Astake is the artist. I listen to music from all over the world, so I like to listen to music from where the beans are from as much as I can while roasting.
What flavors are you looking for when roasting your coffee?
We are sticking to the lighter side of medium. Keeping it light allows the beans to keep more of their distinct flavor. With small batching roasting, we can get out lighter roasts to our customers quickly so they can experience the full flavor of the beans. Jackalope Joe has a nice blueberry, strawberry, and nutty taste and smell.
What is the difference between roasting a blonder roast vs. a darker roast?
A light roast coffee is going to have brighter and more subtle flavors. You will taste the bean’s origin, and the flavor will vary a bit from batch to batch. The darker you get, the more those bright flavors get muted. A medium roast can still highlight the unique characteristics of a bean, but it will have a much more consistent flavor than a light roast, and some of the subtle undertones will be lost in favor of a more uniform “coffee” taste. Coffee is best around 48 hours after it is roasted and will maintain peak flavor for about 6 weeks. With a darker roast, you get more of the bitter and earthy flavors that have long been associated with coffee over the same period without as much of a peak. It’s really a difference in flavor degradation. If you were to drink a light roast 2 weeks after a roast and then the same batch of beans again, but 2 months after a roast, you would notice a loss of flavor notes. If you were to drink a dark roast at 2 weeks and then again at 2 months, you wouldn’t see much difference in flavor. (That’s why big box brands tend to start medium and get darker! It’s much easier which to have consistency from bag to bag and year to year with a dark roast.)
Has roasting impacted the way you drink coffee now?
I always drink it black. I tend to drink cold brew in the summer, so I am eager to figure out what blends will brew the best cold. I am excited about a new blend of Ethiopian and Bali Blue Moon (Goblin Grog). It’s our new and improved Bigfoot Brew. The Bali Blue Moon has vanilla and dark chocolate flavor notes. That, paired with our Ethiopian’s berry flavors, should make an interesting cold brew. I’ve been into the cold brew with coconut syrup lately, and I think all those flavors together will play nicely with coconut.
So you’ve roasted the coffee; how is business going?
It’s funny. I keep getting really excited when I roast and overestimate my beans. Sometimes I think I will roast too much coffee and need to be reined in, but then I check on our stock, and it is just gone. It’s really cool to be a part of this and to see it going so well. I was really worried that I would roast all of this coffee and it would just sit, but if anything, we might be understocking at our current rate. I recently checked on our stock at Ellijay Coffeehouse, and it was just gone. We can’t keep Jackalope Joe on the shelves. It is so good, and it just sells out so fast.
Two of our favorite beans together at last! A Medium Roast blend of whole beans from Bali and Ethiopia in a heavenly pair that’s sweet and fruity. This is the apex cold brew. It’s excellent served black or with coconut or even some blueberry syrup to accentuate the natural flavors of the Ethiopian bean.
Cupping Notes: milk chocolate, blueberry, strawberry, vanilla bean, hints of caramel and nuttiness
If you’re a coffee enthusiast seeking a bold and captivating flavor experience, look no further than Mountain Town Coffee Roasting’s Goblin Grog. This medium roast is a unique creation that stands out among its Indonesian counterparts. With its creamy and rich profile, accompanied by tantalizing notes of vanilla bean and dark chocolate, Goblin Grog is a true treasure for coffee lovers.
Goblin Grog enchants with its distinctive flavor profile. Unlike many Indonesian coffees known for their earthy tones, Goblin Grog takes a different path, providing a smoother and more refined experience. The medium roast strikes the perfect balance, allowing the flavors to shine through harmoniously. As you savor each sip, you’ll be greeted by the luxurious embrace of creamy vanilla bean notes, reminiscent of a decadent dessert. The subtle hint of dark chocolate adds depth and richness, creating a truly indulgent coffee experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned coffee aficionado or simply seeking a remarkable coffee experience, Goblin Grog is a must-try. Indulge in this bold and medium roast, allowing it to transport you to a world of exquisite flavors and a touch of goblin folklore. So, grab your favorite mug, prepare to be enchanted, and savor each sip of Mountain Town Coffee Roasting’s Goblin Grog.
Goblin Grog (Bali, Indonesia)
Bali, Indonesia
Whole Bean Coffee
This Bali Blue Moon bean is smooth and sweet. Goblin Grog is bold, but less earthy than many of its Indonesian counterparts. Its sweet and fruity, like a chocolate covered cherry in a cup.
Cupping Notes: vanilla bean, cacao nibs, black cherry, strawberry, caramel
Cryptids and Coffee is a bi-monthly zine from the fine folks at the Ellijay Makerspace (EllijayMakerspace.org) about, well, legendary creatures and warm beverages. We’re fans of both, but there’s plenty to see for fans of either.
Why? Well, because we live in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, an area that has a rich tradition of weird critters and mind altering beverages. We’re just carrying that flag for the next generation, highlighting the unexplained, the unexplainable, and the best ways to keep yourself awake for 36 hours.
Also, sometimes we’ll talk about other stuff, I guess.
In the realm of cryptids, there are few creatures as intriguing and elusive as the Squonk. This mythical creature, known for its melancholic nature and ability to dissolve into tears, has captured the imagination of storytellers and artists for generations. However, its presence doesn’t end there. Mountain Town Coffee Roasting has harnessed the essence of the Squonk to create a coffee blend that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also celebrates the rich tapestry of pop culture.
While the Squonk may not be as widely recognized as some legendary creatures, its unique qualities have earned it a special place in various forms of pop culture. From literature to music and even gaming, the Squonk has left its mark.
In literature, the Squonk has appeared in various works, often as a symbol of sorrow and vulnerability. Its tearful nature has been a source of inspiration for authors exploring themes of melancholy and the human condition.
Musicians, too, have drawn inspiration from the Squonk. Progressive rock band Genesis immortalized the creature in their iconic song “Squonk.” The haunting lyrics and ethereal melodies captured the essence of the Squonk’s sadness, captivating audiences worldwide.
In the realm of gaming, the Squonk has found its way into the hearts of players. From magical creatures in fantasy role-playing games to collectible cards in trading card games, the Squonk’s unique characteristics have been embraced by gamers seeking a touch of mystique.
Our goal at Mountain Town Coffee Roasting is to roast exceptional coffee and artfully embrace the mythical allure of the Squonk. Drawing inspiration from the creature’s legendary tears, we have roasted a coffee that encapsulates its essence.
A Squonk Supreme is a medium-bodied Rwandan coffee that delivers a fusion of flavors. With hints of pineapple, lemon verbena, grapefruit, berry, and honey, it offers a mesmerizing taste experience. Just like the Squonk’s tears, this bean evokes a sense of despondency that mingles with the joy of a perfectly brewed cup, leaving a lasting impression on the palate.
As we savor the aromatic brew, let us celebrate the fusion of folklore and pop culture, recognizing the profound influence these captivating cryptids have on our collective imagination. So, next time you seek a truly exceptional cup of coffee, embrace the mystique of A Squonk Supreme and embark on a remarkable journey through flavors and legends, courtesy of Mountain Town Coffee Roasting.
A Squonk Supreme (Rwanda Abakundakawa)
Rwanda Abakundakawa
Whole Bean Coffee
A Squonk Supreme is one of our brightest and fruitiest varieties of coffee. The green beans have an exceptional floral aroma that we loved as soon as we opened the bag. We roast it to a medium-light to preserve its incredible and unique flavor profile.
Cupping Notes: Chocolate, orange and citrus fruit, black cherry, caramel
Calling all coffee enthusiasts and lovers of local produce and art! Mountain Town Coffee Roasting is thrilled to announce our participation in the Ellijay Farmers and Artisans Market, bringing you a selection of our finest whole bean coffees. Join us every Saturday through September from 8:00am to 12:00pm in downtown Ellijay, Georgia. Get ready to embark on a coffee adventure like no other as we showcase our unique blends inspired by cryptids. From the mysterious Sasquatch Select to the lively Jackalope Joe, our exceptional whole bean coffees will transport you to new realms of flavor and imagination.
This smooth and refreshing blend of our Ethiopian and Chiapas beans pairs fruitiness and nuttiness together perfectly. Cold, it’s reminiscent of pistachio ice cream with blueberries and a dash of chocolate and caramel syrup on top. A hot cup of Sasquatch Select is like a warm slice of chocolate cake a la mode with almond slices.
Cupping Notes: almond and pistachio, with hints of blueberry and milk chocolate.
Cryptids and Coffee is a bi-monthly zine from the fine folks at the Ellijay Makerspace (EllijayMakerspace.org) about, well, legendary creatures and warm beverages. We’re fans of both, but there’s plenty to see for fans of either.
Why? Well, because we live in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, an area that has a rich tradition of weird critters and mind altering beverages. We’re just carrying that flag for the next generation, highlighting the unexplained, the unexplainable, and the best ways to keep yourself awake for 36 hours.
Also, sometimes we’ll talk about other stuff, I guess.
So, I wanna start this story, this story you’ve requested, with a preface. That preface being that yours truly, Jack, has yet to divulge this particular story on any official channel yet. Anyhow, being interviewed by anybody and anyone from ol’ Ellijay is warrents an honest story.
Your choice of words, “tell me of the beginning of your love affair with cryptids,” I take a mite bit o’ umbrage with since were I to compare my relationship with most cryptids to a love affair, I’d be Knives Chau from that there Scott Pilgrim movie. Monsters always did me wrong and dirty. if ya know, ya know.
So, back on topic here, lil Jackie is where it all started. I was on a family vacation to Puerto Rico in the 1970s, visiting my great uncle Alejandro De Lamoca on his sheep farms what where he made all his money in woolen goods and whatnot. We spent the better part of a week in late august during some ol catholic festival; apparently, they were partying harder than usual in Moca since there was allegedly some kinda vampire problem, and they seemta embrace their own eventual demise by way of exsanguination. One afternoon after help Unca Allie with milkin’ the sheep all mornin’, I heard a loud wailin’ from a nearby copse of trees, and me bein the intrepid and stalwart adventurer that i is, I did a little investigatin’. Now what ye might not know about lil Jackie is when i was a youngin’, I basically started the Got Milk craze myself. I would drink milk mornin’ noon and night if I could, and I did. So I took this fresh sheep’s milk bucket with me to investigate the caterwaulin’, taking little sips of it here and there. Once I breached the tree line and got to lookin for the source of the sound, I realized I was shaking like a leaf on a tree, to paraphrase the immortal bard Sir Lynyrd Skynyrd, and had to stop and steady myself from panicking.
I’ve always had an affection for reading on the paranormal so an aura of fear was something I knew that existed as part of the vampire’s hunting toolkit, so I became acutely aware of the chance that I was about to get bled dry with the quickness, so I reversed my intrepid exploration to a more tactical position and before I could get back to the barn what were the sheep get their milkin and shaving and sheering done, before me stood a most unfathomable horror from beyond the limitations of imagination. This weren’t no Dracula I’d ever read about. It must have been some terrible regional variation. It stood nearly 5 feet tall, with a sheath of leathery and scaly skin, spiny like a porcupine, and with bright red eyes that burned into my soul. It was gripping a lamb in its claws, and the poor lil thing was shrieking like nothing I’d ever heard.
Now I wanna make it clear that despite my preternatural tendency for cryptid hunting, Lil Jackie was still a child at the time, and seeing a full grown, full sized mutant vampire suckin’ on a lamb is enough to put a mighty fear in the chest of the bravest of children. I ran as fast as any kid possibly could and sloshed goat milk all over me in the process. I could hear the vampire chuffing and chasing me, my mistaken inclination of exfiltration instigating its predator response of pursuit. I ran from the farms all the way back to the nearest barrio. The whole time I felt that unholy abomination chasing me, shaking that half mummified lamb with it.
My neck was a-prickle with the knowledge that certain doom was chasing me, so in a desperate panic. I could see the lights in the houses of the barrio ahead of me but I just knew the vampire would snag me before I got to safety, so in a fit of survival instincts I turnt around on’m and tossed the only thing I had in hand, the bucket of milk still warm from the teet itself.
This is the moment that I, Jack, discovered the Vampire’s heretofore unheard of allergy to milk. The shriek that filled the night air absolutely shattered my eardrums and haunts Jack’s deepest nightmares to this day. The flesh of the vampire bubbled and melted into a jammy, jelly-like consistency and its skeleton exploded. This, of course, kills most vampires. Where a gangly scaly skinned, red-eyed, and long fanged demon of the night once stood, was only a lamb with more blood covering it than filling its veins.
I’ve tried tellin’ other cryptid hunters out there of this vampire hack, but I think the ones who tried it were using the wrong milk or something since allegedly it don’t work like that. Maybe it was a lactose intolerant person in life or something, and I got lucky? Anyhow, That was my first real life brush with the shadowy beasts hidin’ outside of society and put me on the path I’m on today to become the stalwart and intrepid explorer of the unknown and eventual slayer of the Squatch that I am.
If you want to hear more from Josh Allen, you can check out his podcast Expedition Sasquatch, a comedy podcast about the world’s premier bigfoot hunter.
Good Morning Squatchers! Jack ventures to Colorado and meets Skippy “Slappy” McDaniels before coming face to face with … something.
Jersey Devil Decaf (Mogiana, Brazil)
Mogiana, Brazil
Whole Bean Coffee
It’s everything you want out of a cup of coffee, minus the caffeine. Chocolatey, malty, nutty, and most importantly, smooth. Don’t be surprised if someone sends it back thinking there’s been a mistake. It’s decaf, it’s just the best cup of decaf you’ve ever had in your life.
Cupping Notes: dark chocolate and walnut flavors, with a smooth and buttery finish
