Coffee was never expected to thrive in California, USA — yet Frinj Coffee transformed the improbable into a new expression of terroir.

In 2002, the late Jay Ruskey partnered with UC Farm Advisor Dr. Mark Gaskell planted California's first commercial coffee trees, laying the foundation for an entirely new origin. Jay’s experiment became his life’s work: proving that coffee belonged in California.

That vision evolved into FRINJ in 2017, co-founded by Jay alongside Andy Mullins, Juan Medrano, and Lindsey Mesta. Today, even after Jay’s passing, his influence continues to shape farms stretching from San Luis Obispo to San Diego.

Through precision cultivation and innovative post-harvest practices, FRINJ coffees have reached competition stages, omakase counters in Los Angeles, Seoul, and Tokyo, and most recently became the first California coffees presented at the 2026 Dubai Coffee Auction.

This latest selection reflects the spirit Jay helped cultivate: Silent Springs Laurina Yeast Washed carries playful layers of licorice candy, strawberry, ripe mango, blueberry, brown spice, and root beer. Knopf Knoll Ranch Geisha Yeast Washed unfolds with complex florals, nectarine, bergamot, champagne, and Earl Grey. Vedder Ranch Geisha Classic Washed reveals lemongrass, pear, and Earl Grey for a gentle brightness. 

Each coffee proves Jay right — coffee can emerge from the most unexpected places. So come join us in celebrating a legacy that keeps growing with every harvest.