When Heather Klassen and her partner Jim first dreamed up their business, they were bobbing in the Pacific on a tour boat, surrounded by whales. That unforgettable moment in Maui became the namesake for their uniquely branded company, Mugging Whales Specialty Coffee Roasters.
"We got 'mugged' by whales," Klassen explains with a laugh. "We were stuck out there, completely surrounded. It was amazing."
That spirit of adventure and appreciation for good coffee inspired the couple to launch Mugging Whales in 2018. Today, they roast high-quality specialty coffee in Winnipeg, offering a curated selection of beans sourced from around the globe.
What makes their coffee special
Mugging Whales focuses exclusively on specialty coffee, the top tier of quality based on a 100-point grading scale. Beans scoring 80 or higher qualify, and Klassen says the emphasis is on more than just flavour.
"It’s about sustainability, the environment, and supporting small-scale farmers," she says. "The beans are handpicked and processed with care, often using unique methods that add character to the final cup."
The company works with importers who source beans directly from coffee-growing countries like Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Mexico. "Each origin brings something different to the table," Klassen notes. "Our Guatemala coffee is the most popular, but Costa Rica is my personal favourite."
Brew it your way
While their customers enjoy the flexibility of grinding the whole bean coffee to match their preferred brewing method, the couple uses an AeroPress at home. "We can only drink one or two cups a day, so this is a quick way to brew small amounts with excellent taste," she says.
For on-the-go coffee lovers, Mugging Whales also offers single-serve instant coffee – a premium version that Klassen insists tastes just like a fresh brew – but you have to try it to believe! "It’s great for camping, hiking, or even just to keep in your purse or at your desk," she says.
Freshly roasted, delivered direct
Mugging Whales is a strictly online business, but you can find their beans in select local retailers. Their focus, however, is on direct-to-customer sales to ensure every batch is fresh.
"This year, we’re shifting toward roasting on demand," Klassen explains. "That means when you order, your coffee will be roasted within 48 hours before shipping or delivery, so it’s as fresh as it gets."
Giving back, one cup at a time
In May, the company launched a fundraising program for non-profits. Forty per cent of profits from fundraising sales go directly to the chosen organization. There's also an ongoing option: supporters can purchase through the website with a group's name attached and have 20 percent of profits donated.
"It’s a way to support good causes with something people already enjoy every day," Klassen says.
Where to learn more
To order coffee, learn about fundraising opportunities, or browse their coffee selection, visit muggingwhales.coffee.