Alaska Airlines signs agreement with Stumptown Coffee to serve up tailored coffee blend
October 12 - 2023
Coffee Geography Magazine
Alaska Airlines and Stumptown Coffee Roasters launched a custom coffee blend that's specially crafted to be enjoyed up in the air – brewing soon on all Alaska flights.
The airline were the first airline to implement an inflight recycling program; the first to eliminate plastic cups, straws and stir sticks on board; and the first to offer guests the ability to pre-order meals and snacks. Now it features dozens of West Coast-based food and beverage brands on board and have a long history of collaborating with partners who share the commitment to the planet, the communities where they source and to providing caring service.
"Having flown millions of miles fueled by countless cups of coffee, Stumptown stands out as first class," said Alaska Airlines CEO Ben Minicucci. "Like travel, coffee has a remarkable way of bringing people together. I can't wait for our guests and employees to enjoy a cup of Stumptown when they fly with us."
Alaska Airlines CEO Ben Minicucci
"We wanted a crowd pleaser – something that would delight folks who enjoy milder coffees and also speak to guests who enjoy medium-bodied roasts," said Stumptown President Laura Szeliga.
“Our journey together began with a sip of Stumptown's Holler Mountain, its best-selling, certified organic coffee. From there, the coffee experts at Stumptown created an organic blend that's fit for the skies. For those who don't know, your taste buds react differently at high altitude, which is why food and drinks can taste different in the air compared to on the ground.” Added Minicucci.
Alaska's medium-dark blend uses the same clean and sweet base as Holler Mountain, but with a primary focus on a roast that mellows acidity and introduces just enough toastiness to please a wide range of palates. It's exceptionally smooth and balanced, with aromatic notes of toasted marshmallows, browned butter and toffee with delicate hints of citrus and cherry. Additionally, Stumptown dialed in this roast to be delicious when served black or with the addition of creamer or oat milk (also now offered on Alaska flights).
Alaska's custom roast will be available exclusively on all Alaska flights starting this fall and will be on every flight by Dec. 1, 2023. Plus, guests can sip Stumptown at Portland and JFK Lounges where they are serving Stumptown's Holler Mountain brewed coffee and Hair Bender in the hand-crafted espresso beverages. Trapper Creek will also be available as a decaf option.