Two dark roasts, two different jobs
Stumptown offers two dark roasts that look similar on the shelf but serve different brewing situations. French Roast is a whole-bean, organic dark roast for those who want a smoky, full-bodied cup. Ground Hair Bender is a pre-ground dark roast blend designed for travel and drip brewers. The choice comes down to how you plan to brew and whether you need whole beans or convenience.
What the catalog confirms about each blend
- French Roast: This toasty, organic French Roast coffee blend redefines what a classic dark roast can be. It’s big and smoky, but never burnt - a favorite for those who appreciate a rich, full-bodied cup. French Roast is a whole-bean blend for drinkers who want a bold, traditional dark roast experience without the charred taste.
French Roast - Ground Hair Bender: Headed on the road and not sure if you will have access to a coffee grinder? This 12oz bag of coffee is pre-ground at our roastery on a setting that works for just about any drip brewer. Ground Hair Bender is pre-ground for drip brewers, making it ideal for travel, office, or anyone without a grinder.
Ground Hair Bender
French Roast vs Ground Hair Bender: Key differences
- Roast profile: French Roast is a smoky, full-bodied dark roast that stays smooth. Hair Bender is also a dark roast but described as a blend; its pre-ground form is optimized for drip brewers.
- Grind: French Roast is sold as whole beans (available in 12oz and 5lb sizes). Ground Hair Bender comes pre-ground for drip brewers in a 12oz bag.
- Best for: French Roast suits home brewers who grind fresh and want maximum roast flavor. Ground Hair Bender is for travelers, campers, or anyone without a grinder who needs a consistent drip coffee.
- Organic certification: French Roast is certified organic. The catalog does not confirm organic status for Ground Hair Bender.
Which one should you choose?
If you value a smoky, full-bodied cup and have a grinder, French Roast delivers the classic dark roast experience in whole-bean form. If you need a pre-ground coffee that works with any drip brewer—especially when traveling—Ground Hair Bender is the practical choice. The catalog does not specify brewing instructions for either, so your usual dark roast method will work for both.
