Common Grounds is a striking and innovative collaboration with Huddersfield craft brewer Magic Rock.  Utilising Woodford Reserve Bourbon Barrels sourced from the brewery, Darkwoods explored the idea of resting green coffee in these used barrels before roasting, in the same way that the brewery ages some of its beers.

After much experimenting they arrived at the choice of a washed Ethiopian Yirgecheffe whose natural floral, citrus character became completely transformed by the process. Retaining notes of vanilla and dried fruit from the oak and carrying a surprising amount of sweet Bourbon aroma this formerly limited-edition coffee is a regular sell-out and cult favourite amongst customers worldwide.

The flavour and intensity of the whiskey character may also vary as different barrels affect the coffee in their own way - just as single cask whiskies have their own unique signatures.

Common Grounds won coveted 3-Star Gold Awards in both the 2017 and 2018 Great Taste Awards. Judges commented that it, "has a great nose; feels like you can taste the barrels in the aroma. IT delivers a big hit of blackcurrants and forest fruits. With milk the fruits are even more pronounced. Funky, sweet, rich and smooth. Delicious!".