Epoch 9 - Ngorongoro

Conor Conway and Matt Symes founded Epoch Chemistry in Moncton, New Brunswick, with Conor also serving as Sales Lead at Forward Coffee Importers, the company started by two time Canadian Barista Champion Cole Torode. The name captures their dual obsession: "epoch" as a moment in time and "chemistry" as both coffee science and the human connections it creates. They roast in a Nordic style with light to medium profiles designed to highlight single origin terroir, and they supply nearly 30 wholesale retailers across Atlantic Canada from a dedicated production roastery opened in April 2023. The team has developed a fascinating theory that heavily fermented coffees sent through the Swiss Water decaf process come out perfectly balanced, and they work directly with the Businde washing station in Burundi through Forward Coffee. Their education program is extensive, featuring a famous multi course Tasting Experience workshop alongside regular public cuppings and home brewer sessions. The international team draws from Canada, Israel, Russia, Iran, and Australia, united by a philosophy inspired by 17th century European coffee houses as social equalizers.