LONDON (AP) — A Scottish dairy has introduced what it claims to be the most expensive coffee in the U.K.: a flat white priced at an astounding 272 British pounds ($344). This luxurious drink consists of a double shot of espresso, steamed milk, and an artistic touch of foam on top. However, the high cost comes with an unexpected bonus — a share in the dairy farm.
The hefty price tag for this particular flat white is part of a crowdfunding initiative by Mossgiel Organic Dairy, aimed at expanding its sustainable operations and increasing milk production. Individuals who purchase 34 shares in the farm will receive a certificate for a flat white, which can be redeemed starting this weekend at one of 13 coffee shops across Scotland that utilize the dairy’s products.
Owner Bryce Cunningham acknowledges that the cost is nearly 80 times higher than an average flat white in the U.K., but insists it’s a meaningful investment. “It may sound outrageous, but when you consider it, it’s a solid deal. After all, how valuable is the future of farming?” he remarked.
The previous record for expensive coffee in Britain was held by Shot London, a café located in the upscale Mayfair and Marylebone areas, which charged 265 pounds for a flat white made with rare Japanese beans from Okinawa.
Prior to this coffee promotion, Cunningham had already secured over a third of the 300,000 pounds he aims to raise from small investors. This funding is necessary for a larger 900,000-pound loan that will enable him to double the farm’s operations and expand their reach into coffee shops in London.
Participation in the crowdfunding venture offers additional benefits, including farm tours, discounts on milk deliveries, and invitations to special events. Nonetheless, potential investors are reminded that they risk losing some or all of their investment, barring the actual coffee offer.
Situated in Mauchline, around 25 miles (40 kilometers) south of Glasgow, the farm holds historical significance — it was once worked by Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns, famed for his poem “Auld Lang Syne.” His legacy lives on at Mossgiel, as his likeness appears on every glass bottle of milk produced here.
Cunningham, who previously worked as a service manager for Mercedes-Benz, took over the family farm in 2014, shortly after the deaths of his father and grandfather from terminal illnesses. Following a collapse in milk prices that same year, he restructured the business to focus on organic farming, utilizing a unique process to “brew” the milk, which imparts a creamier texture reminiscent of raw milk while eliminating health risks.
Todd Whiteford, co-owner of The Good Coffee Cartel in Glasgow, proudly serves the high-priced flat whites. He emphasizes that they have been sourcing Mossgiel’s milk for several years, and despite numerous tempting offers from competitors, no other milk producers provide the same quality and consistency that results in superior cappuccinos, lattes, and flat whites, along with exceptional coffee art.
Despite the steep price for Mossgiel coffee, customers will still receive a flat white that’s the same as what other Coffee Cartel patrons can buy for just 3.10 pounds. However, Cunningham believes that those who splurge on this extravagant cup will experience a sense of fulfillment, knowing their coffee purchase contributes positively beyond just taste.
