What does blender mean in coffee sourcing?

A blender is a coffee bought specifically as a component in a blend rather than as a standalone single-origin. Blender coffees typically provide a consistent, reliable base - moderate body, low to neutral acidity, good roastability, nothing distracting but nothing that gets in the way either.

Common blenders include lower-grown Brazilian naturals, Indonesian wet-hulled coffees, and commercial-grade Central American washed coffees. They're available in larger volumes at predictable price points with consistent quality across harvests - which is exactly what a blend anchor needs.

The term is descriptive, not a slight. A well-sourced blender does its job precisely by not standing out. The distinction is simply between coffees bought for their character as standalones and those bought for what they contribute to something assembled. Both have a clear role, and understanding which you're buying for matters when you're speccing green.