Skip to main content
Who Makes The
BEST COFFEE
US Brand Directory
Boulder, Colorado · Specialty Coffee Brand Deep Dive

Prodigal

Editorial sacred-geometry artwork for Prodigal; not a documentary photograph
IndependentRoasts its own coffeeSourcing: Farm level
TagsProdigalColorado coffee roastersColombiaKenyaEcuadorIndependentFarm levelRoasts in-houseAnaerobic
Visit Prodigal's site

Prodigal is a Boulder, Colorado-based specialty coffee roastery founded in 2021 by industry veteran Scott Rao and roaster Mark Benedetto. The company operates as a direct-to-consumer roaster, prioritizing a data-driven approach to production that reflects Rao's influential roasting methodologies. They specialize in light, modern roast profiles that emphasize clarity and fruit-forward characteristics, utilizing rigorous quality control protocols to ensure consistency. By focusing on small-batch releases and subscription-based distribution, Prodigal positions itself as a premium, technically-focused brand catering to enthusiasts who value precision and high-scoring green coffee.

Ownership
Prodigal is an independent coffee company founded by industry veteran Scott Rao and Mark Benedetto.
Founded
2021
Roasting
Reported to roast in-house (also names null as a partner).
What it's known for
Prodigal is known for its technical precision, rigorous quality control standards, and a focus on light, juicy, and fruit-forward roast profiles.
Sourcing countries
Colombia · Kenya · Ecuador
Farm-level sourcing
The brand sources high-scoring green coffee, typically selecting lots that score above 87.5 points. They frequently identify specific producers and farms, such as Wilder Lazo, and emphasize transparency in their high-quality, single-origin offerings.
Notable coffees
  • — Wilder Lazo Dinastia Gesha
  • — Taza Dorada #6 Vinka Sidra
  • — Komothai AB
Documented coffee offerings

Coffees researched from Prodigal

These are examples recorded during editorial research on Nov 5, 2026. They are not a live product feed. The coffee, lot, price, and availability may have changed. We have not necessarily brewed these coffees ourselves.

Boulder Blend

Global · Primarily washed, with some anaerobic, natural, or honey

This house blend is described as fruity, bright, and balanced.

Original roaster or listing source

External customer, cafe, marketplace, and class ratings are not comparable measures of the quality of an individual coffee. We do not convert them into original tasting scores or brand-wide star ratings. Our independent reviews are published separately after a coffee has actually been brewed and evaluated.

Verify original product sources

Retailer information: Prodigal

Documented physical retailers
Prodigal Coffee (Boulder, CO)
Historical source note (not live inventory): The brand operates a physical location in Boulder where retail bags of coffee beans are available for purchase.
Physical
Documented online sources
Prodigal's online shop
Historical source note (not live inventory): The brand sells its full range of roasted coffee, samplers, and subscriptions directly through its website.
Website
Eight Ounce Coffee
Historical source note (not live inventory): This specialty coffee equipment and bean retailer carries a selection of Prodigal's roasted coffee offerings.
Website

I was able to verify the brand's own e-commerce platform and one third-party online retailer, as well as confirm that their Boulder facility functions as a retail point for coffee bags despite not being a traditional cafe. I could not find evidence of the brand being sold in major grocery chains or other physical retail outlets.

These references come from public store locators, retailer listings and brand materials — last checked Oct 6, 2026. They are research links, not proof of current stock or a buying recommendation. Verify availability, price and location directly with the source.
In the news

Recent news and media coverage about Prodigal, as documented by outside outlets. We link to the original reporting and do not rewrite or endorse it.

2026-10-31 · Blister
“Quality Coffee” vs. “Coffee You Like” w/ Scott Rao (Ep.25)

Scott Rao, co-founder of Prodigal, appeared on The Blister Vault podcast to discuss the nuances of coffee quality, how it is measured, and the distinction between objective quality and personal preference. The episode highlights Rao's ongoing work in the specialty coffee industry and his approach to coffee grading.

2026-09-03 · Fellow
Fellow's Take on Mulu by Prodigal | Brew Guide

Fellow featured Prodigal's Mulu coffee in a brew guide, highlighting the roastery's focus on high-scoring green coffees and light, vibrant flavor profiles. The article positions Prodigal as an ultra-premium micro-roastery led by industry figures Scott Rao and Mark Benedetto.

2026-06-27 · ROEST
Ask Me Anything: Scott Rao — ROEST

Scott Rao participated in an 'Ask Me Anything' session at the ROEST booth during World of Coffee Brussels. The event highlighted his role as a consultant and co-founder of Prodigal, noting his use of ROEST equipment in the brand's production.

Sources used in this deep dive
Research disclosure — this profile was compiled from public online sources on 2026-10-02. This company overview is not a tasting review. Original tasting reviews are labeled separately when they exist. Ownership, roasting and sourcing details are attributed to documented sources. I could not verify any specific, ongoing philanthropic or charitable programs associated with the brand.

Your coffee interests. Every section.

Learn something new, follow the people behind your cup, or explore by flavor and tags.