'Ocean Air Coffee' by Saltwinds Coffee - Reviving a Lost Tradition with Science

BEVERAGES

6/24/20252 min read

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For centuries, coffee was transported across the oceans in wooden sailing ships, where it absorbed the salty, humid air, resulting in a uniquely smooth and rich flavor. But with the rise of steel-hulled vessels, this natural infusion process was lost—until now.

Saltwinds Coffee Company, a Canadian innovator, has brought this forgotten tradition back to life. Through cutting-edge science and a deep respect for history, they’ve developed a patented process to recreate the legendary taste of ocean-aged coffee—without the months-long sea voyage.

The Problem: Modern Coffee’s Missing Flavor

Most coffee today is roasted and brewed without any exposure to the natural elements that once enhanced its taste. The result? A brew that can often be bitter, harsh, or lacking in depth.

Historically, coffee beans stored in wooden ships absorbed trace amounts of sea salt and minerals from the ocean air, which subtly altered their chemistry. This natural process reduced bitterness and enhanced sweetness, creating a smoother, more balanced cup.

But in today’s fast-paced coffee industry, this slow, natural transformation is nearly impossible to replicate—until Saltwinds Coffee stepped in.

The Solution: The Ocean Air Infusion Process

Saltwinds Coffee, co-founded by Brad Rideout and chemist Dr. Laura Richard, set out to scientifically recreate the effects of ocean air on coffee beans. Their patent pending Ocean Air Infusion Process mimics the conditions of a sea voyage, transforming green coffee beans before roasting.

How It Works:
  1. Salt Infusion – Green coffee beans are exposed to a carefully calibrated aqueous salt solution (containing minerals like sodium chloride, potassium chloride, and magnesium chloride).

  2. Controlled Exposure – The beans absorb the solution, increasing in mass by at least 1.5%, ensuring optimal flavor enhancement.

  3. Drying & Roasting – The beans are dried to preserve their new chemical structure, then roasted to perfection

This process doesn’t just mask bitterness—it fundamentally changes the beans’ composition, resulting in a naturally smoother, richer taste.

The Advantages: Why Saltwinds Coffee Stands Out
1. A Smoother, Less Bitter Brew

The infused minerals interact with the coffee’s natural compounds, suppressing bitter flavors and enhancing sweetness. Even lower-grade beans taste premium after treatment.

2. Award-Winning Quality

Saltwinds Coffee has already made waves in the industry, winning two international awards at the PRF Cold Brew Championships (2023 in El Salvador and 2024 in Colombia).

3. A Nod to Canadian Maritime History

Brad Rideout was inspired by tales of sailors and merchants who prized ocean-aged coffee. Saltwinds Coffee isn’t just a product—it’s a revival of a lost tradition.

4. Scientifically Proven

Dr. Laura Richard’s research ensures that every batch meets strict quality standards, delivering consistent, exceptional flavor.

Final Thoughts: More Than Just Coffee—It’s a Revival

Saltwinds Coffee Company isn’t just selling coffee—they’re bringing back a forgotten chapter in coffee history. By blending tradition with modern science, they’ve created something truly unique: a cup that’s smoother, richer, and free from the harsh bitterness found in many modern roasts.

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