To say that RC Beall is knowledgeable in the subject of coffee is an understatement. His passion for the steamy, rich-flavored beverage is undoubtedly present in every cup he makes.
RC First delved into the world of coffee with the creation of Montana Coffee Traders in 1981. Since then, RC has set up roasting facilities in Mondeverde, Costa Rica, Moscow, Russia, Austin and most recently, Kalingrad, Russia.
Husband and wife RC and Beth Beall have run Texas Coffee Traders in an old stonecutting warehouse in East Austin since 1994. Now open for retail at their East 4th Street location, Coffee Traders supplies coffee, tea, espresso, part, supplies, syrups retail and wholesaling consulting, as well as roasting for hundreds of shops and restaurants all over Texas.
As members of the Austin Independent Business Association (AIBA), the couple is dedicated to giving back to their community by donating coffee to organizations such as Blue Santa. Texas Coffee Traders is also involved with Special Project coffees or "coffees with a cause" such as Fair Trade, a company committed to organic products and a guarantee that farmers and workers receive a fair price.
You don't have to be a coffee connoisseur to enjoy a tour through the facility. Diving your fingers into the huge sacks of beans, smelling the different aromas (some sweet, some bitter) and tasting the rich and creamy drink is a treat for the senses. "We have a tour for the Texas School of the Blind which is a lot of fun," RC said.
RC emphasizes the importance of highest quality and character of his coffee, a trait not only evident in his beans, but also his business. "There are a lot of clichés," RC said, "but you can get the very best here, not just coffee, but people, personality, artisans and craftsmen." Texas Coffee Traders has brought great integrity and love to people all over the world in a fashion that is most definitely true to Texas. Their dedication to their clients as well as those around them, make every bean they sell all the more delightful.
Texas Coffee Traders - 1400 E. 4th Street - (512) 476-2279 - online at www.texascoffeetraders.com