Windmill Coffee Roasters

Windmill Coffee Roasters is a specialty coffee roasting operation headquartered in Ames, Iowa. The company was founded by Andrew Burgason, emerging from a family history in the local coffee industry that dates back to the 1997 opening of Burgies Coffee & Tea by his father. Initially, the roasting operation was established as an internal solution to supply the family's existing cafe, but it quickly evolved into an independent wholesale entity to meet the growing demand for high-quality, locally roasted coffee among other businesses and cafes in the region.

The company’s sourcing philosophy is centered on building and maintaining long-term, intentional relationships with coffee producers. Windmill sources beans from approximately 12 countries across Central and South America, Africa, and Asia. By working directly with producers, associations, and importers, the roaster aims to ensure that the coffee they offer is not only of high quality but also produced by farms that prioritize sustainable green practices.

In practice, Windmill Coffee Roasters functions as a key supplier for the Central Iowa coffee community. Their wholesale model is built on providing both the product and the necessary support for their partners, including training and quality control services. This approach has led to partnerships with various local establishments, such as The Slow Down Coffee Co., which cites Windmill’s dedication to relationship-based sourcing and quality as primary reasons for their collaboration.

The roaster is known for offering a diverse range of single-origin coffees, including those processed through various methods such as anaerobic, natural, and honey processes. Their product lineup often features specific lots from named producers, reflecting their commitment to transparency and the traceability of their supply chain. This focus on the journey of the bean—from the farm to the final cup—is a hallmark of their operational identity.

Beyond their wholesale activities, Windmill maintains a direct-to-consumer presence through their website and local engagement in Ames. They emphasize a culture of hospitality and education, often welcoming coffee enthusiasts to learn about their roasting process. This commitment to community extends to their role as a resource for other coffee professionals, including those who visit their facility to observe their roasting techniques and quality standards.

Today, Windmill Coffee Roasters stands as a significant contributor to the specialty coffee landscape in Iowa. By balancing the technical demands of roasting with a focus on producer-level relationships, they have established themselves as a central hub for coffee culture in the region. Their story remains one of steady growth, rooted in the transition from a single-shop supplier to a broader, relationship-driven roasting company.