faq
Quick answers about Bilge Brew (a veteran-owned coffee company), ordering, freshness, brewing, and picking the right roast.
Quick links:
About Bilge Brew (Veteran-Owned Coffee)
Is Bilge Brew a veteran-owned coffee company?
Yes. Bilge Brew Coffee Co is veteran-owned and built by a U.S. Navy veteran (and registered nurse). Read the story: About the Owner.
What does “veteran-owned coffee” actually mean?
It means the business is owned and operated by a U.S. military veteran—not just “veteran-themed” branding. Here’s the breakdown: What Veteran-Owned Coffee Means.
How does buying from Bilge Brew support veterans?
You’re supporting a veteran-owned small business directly. If you want the “why” behind the brand: Why I Started Bilge Brew.
What makes Bilge Brew different from other coffee brands?
Bilge Brew focuses on roast development for balance and consistency—coffee that performs across brew methods. Start here: All Roasts, or try a mix: Sampler Bundle.
Is Bilge Brew coffee roasted fresh?
Bilge Brew is roasted in small batches for consistent flavor. If you want the practical timeline: How Long Coffee Stays Fresh.
Orders & Shipping
How fast do orders ship?
Processing time and shipping options are shown at checkout, and you’ll receive tracking when your order ships.
Do you offer free shipping?
Free shipping (if available) and thresholds are shown in your cart/checkout based on your order and destination.
Can I change or cancel my order after purchase?
If you need a change, reach out as soon as possible after ordering. If it hasn’t shipped yet, we can usually help.
Where do you ship?
Shipping availability and options appear at checkout when you enter your address.
What’s your return/refund policy?
Refund details are here: Refund Policy.
Freshness & Storage
How long does coffee stay fresh?
Flavor changes over time with air, light, heat, and moisture. Here’s the real-world timeline: How Long Coffee Stays Fresh.
How should I store coffee (whole bean or ground)?
Keep it sealed, cool, and dry. Avoid open counters and humidity. Whole bean holds flavor longer than pre-ground.
Should I keep coffee in the fridge or freezer?
Fridges add moisture and odors. Freezing can work if you portion it and keep it sealed (so you aren’t thawing the whole bag repeatedly).
What does a roast date mean?
Roast date tells you when the coffee was roasted (freshness indicator). Quick explainer: Roast Date Explained.
Brewing & Grind
Whole bean or ground—what should I buy?
Whole bean gives you the best flavor window because you grind right before brewing. If you want a simple upgrade: start with whole bean and a basic burr grinder.
What grind size should I use?
Espresso = fine, drip = medium, French press = coarse. If you’re troubleshooting taste fast: Espresso Troubleshooting Guide.
Why does my coffee taste bitter?
Bitter often means over-extraction (too fine, too hot, too long) or a roast profile you don’t like. Fix list here: What Makes Coffee Bitter.
Why does my coffee taste sour?
Sour usually points to under-extraction (too coarse, too cool, too short). Espresso-specific checklist: Sour Espresso Fixes.
Do you have brew guides (French press, pour over, cold brew, moka pot)?
Yep—start with what you use most: French Press, Pour Over, Cold Brew, Moka Pot.
Does water type matter for coffee?
Yes. Water minerals affect extraction and taste. I suggest using filtered water or do a simple taste test. If your room temp water tastes off, your coffee will be affected.
Roast, Caffeine & Choosing the Right Coffee
Does dark roast coffee have more caffeine?
Not usually. Roast level changes flavor more than caffeine. Dark can taste “stronger” because of roast flavor.
What coffee should I choose if I don’t like bitter coffee?
Start with smooth, easy medium roasts: Liberty, Signature Roast, or Maritime Roast.
What coffee is best for espresso?
For classic, bold espresso: Anchor Espresso. For a punchy espresso blend: Red Alert!. Want to dial-in fast? Dial In Espresso.
What coffee works best for drip coffee makers?
For a steady daily cup: Liberty or Maritime Roast. For a stronger, bolder drip: General Quarters.
Do you sell K-cup compatible coffee?
Yes—K-cup compatible options are available. Guide + tips: K-Cup Coffee, But Better.
Do you sell flavored coffee?
Yes—naturally flavored options designed to complement the coffee: Flavored Coffees. If you’ve been burned by “fake” tasting flavors, read this: Truth About Flavored Coffee.
What’s your highest caffeine coffee?
If you want naturally higher caffeine, check out: Atomic.
What is whiskey barrel aged coffee?
Coffee that rests in used whiskey barrels before roasting, picking up subtle oak warmth. Try: Drunken Sailor.
Not sure where to start—what’s the easiest first order?
Start with a variety pack so you can pick your lane: Bilge Brew Crew Sampler. If you want espresso options too: Espresso Bundle.
Wholesale, Gifts & Bulk Orders
Do you offer corporate gifts or bulk coffee orders?
Yes—bulk and gift orders are possible. A simple place to start is a bundle: Sampler Bundle or Espresso Bundle.
Can cafés or offices stock Bilge Brew?
Yes—if you’re looking to stock a veteran-owned coffee brand, start by browsing the lineup: All Roasts.
Related reading (brew + buying help):