The Art and Science of Roasting at Ublend
- Spiros Nikolakopoulos
- Oct 14
- 2 min read

Every batch tells a story — a careful dance of temperature, aroma, and time.
Every roast begins the same way — green beans, a drum, and heat. But what happens next is a fusion of chemistry and craft, precision and instinct.
At Ublend, roasting is both art and discipline — guided by data, shaped by experience, and refined by taste — a true balance of art and science.
Charge
The moment green beans hit the hot drum, the transformation begins. Energy floods in, and the roaster listens — feeling the shift as raw turns to roasted.
Turning Point
The beans’ temperature dips to its lowest, then begins its steady climb. From here, every second and every degree shape what comes next.
Yellowing
Moisture escapes. The beans pale and release a soft sweetness — a scent of baked grain and sugar that marks the first true change.
Maillard Reaction
Sugars and amino acids collide in a slow, rich reaction. The beans deepen in colour; body, sweetness, and complexity begin to take form.
First Crack
A distinct pop echoes through the roastery — the sound of expansion, release, and transformation. The roast is alive now, releasing volatile aromas that define its flavour.
Development
This is the fine edge — the roaster’s intuition. Too far, and sweetness burns away. Too short, and acidity dominates. The art is in the balance — the perfect intersection of sweetness, structure, and depth.
Drop
When the curve reaches its peak, the beans are released and cooled quickly. This sudden stop locks in flavour, preserving the work of the last 10–15 minutes.
Rate of Rise (RoR)
Beneath the surface, we track one quiet constant — the Rate of Rise. A smooth, consistent climb is key to a clean, balanced cup. Any spike or stall, and the flavour tells on you.
Temperature. Time. Touch.
That’s the alchemy — where science fuels art, and every roast becomes a signature expression of Ublend’s craft.
Bring Your Brand to Life
Partner with Ublend and create your own signature coffee — roasted in Melbourne, crafted with care, and branded entirely for you. Explore our process, learn what makes each roast unique, and discover how your coffee can stand apart.
Start your journey here.


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