If you’ve ever stopped by our café and sipped on an espresso-based drink, you might’ve noticed something a little different. Something smoother, more balanced, and uniquely Alma. That’s because, unlike many big-box coffee shops that rely on heavy dark roasts for their espresso, we do things our own way. Instead of going the traditional route, we use our fan-favorite medium roast: Soulmate.

We caught up with our General Manager, Max Folger, to dive into the question we hear most often:

“Why Soulmate and not Essence?” 

What’s the difference between Soulmate and Essence? 

“Soulmate and Essence are two very distinct roasts. Soulmate is a medium roast that leans fruit-forward with subtle chocolate undertones, offering a bright, balanced flavor. Essence, on the other hand, is a true espresso roast: bold, rich, and deeply chocolatey. Essence is what we would deem to be a traditional espresso. Traditional espresso typically has a bold, concentrated flavor with a balance of natural sweetness, rich bitterness, and vibrant acidity. While both brews are delicious and versatile, Soulmate truly stands out with its unique profile, making it unlike anything else on our menu.” 

How does Soulmate set Alma apart? 

"Soulmate’s smooth, balanced body captures the best of what Honduran coffee has to offer. With tasting notes of bold milk chocolate, candied walnuts, and clementines, every shot reflects the story of our family farms in Honduras. For us, every cup connects back to our roots: everything we do in Holly Springs is a reflection of our mission to serve both our local community and our community back in Honduras."

So, why have an espresso roast like Essence? 

"Great question! Fun fact: you can actually pull espresso shots with any of our roasts, but we typically recommend medium roasts for better balance and extraction. Essence was created as a go-to espresso option, especially for folks brewing at home. It’s rich, reliable, and easy to dial in, making it perfect for both new and experienced home baristas."

If Essence is the espresso roast, why stick with Soulmate in the café?

"It goes back to who we are and what we stand for. Since day one, it’s been Soulmate behind the bar. When we launched the café, we wanted a roast that wasn’t just delicious, it had to be versatile and distinctive. Soulmate fits the bill perfectly. It’s a bit lighter than a traditional shot of espresso, which we believe sets us apart. Although we have an appreciation for tradition, we like to put our own spin on things. We enjoy the vibrant flavor that comes with a slightly lighter roast, and Soulmate pulls in just the right amount of brightness during extraction. It’s a flavor that shines on its own or pairs perfectly with milk in a cappuccino or latte. Using Soulmate on espresso allows us to share the bright and beautiful flavors and stories of Honduras in every single cup."

At the Heart of Every Shot

At Alma, every decision is made with purpose, from the beans we roast to the drinks we serve. Choosing Soulmate as our espresso roast isn't just about flavor; it's about honoring our roots, creating memorable coffee experiences, and staying true to our mission of making a difference from Honduras to North Georgia. Whether you're enjoying a latte in our café or pulling shots at home, you are part of that story, and we’re so glad to have you with us on the journey.