CC: Kaladi Brothers

What does CC mean?

Subject: Kaladi Brothers Coffee 

Location: Anchorage, AK

Free WiFi ? : yes

Rating: 4+ [see key]

If any coffee spot commands attention with the citizens of Anchorage, it seems Kaladi Brothers is king. With ten locations in Anchorage (as well as 4 outside the city limits), I am impressed with the amount of loyalty they have accrued to keep that many coffee locations working. 

Suffice it to say that my trip to Anchorage would remain incomplete without a stop at by one of their shops. While I had a coffee in passing at the New Sagaya coffee stand and a fair espresso at Cafe Ristretto (a cafe that utilizes Kaladi Bros beans), I made for the downtown location for a full evaluative experience. The outside happens to be bit stark (it's a round brick office building), but the inside was quite well decorated and laid out, with an assortment of colors, crystal chandeliers and all kinds of seating amidst the unique interior layout.

From the research I had done, Kaladi as a coffee roaster seems to stick to the older ways ("2nd wave"), aiming for darker roasts, not to mention has a curious method of storing their whole bean coffee in a fridge (at least downtown they do). For my beverages, I ordered an espresso (I did not catch the blend's name) and a drip of their Rwandan. The espresso, pulled medium with brown crema, displayed notes of tobacco, bitter cocoa, cabbage, oak, a little sugar and a wee bit of rhubarb; alas, it was a noticeably burnt and bitter with a heavy potency, but still fairly good. The Rwandan, labeled as a lighter roast, tasted more like a medium-dark roast with flavors of sweet oats, blackberry jam, vanilla, pear and slight almond in a medium-to-heavy body. As for a medium/dark roast, it was also fairly tasty. 

Given the roast level of both the espresso and the coffee, Kaladi did deliver a decent coffee experience (i.e. neither tasted that poorly despite the darkness). If you're into darker roasts or you just want to see what all the Anchorage-ians are drinking, give Kaladi Brothers a visit.

Mugged: Colombia [Henry's]

What does Mugged mean?

Subject: Henry's House of Coffee 

Mugged: Colombia Lite Roast

Rating: 4+ [see key]

While San Francisco is currently brimming with lots of new coffee talent, local coffee roasting is something that has been with the city for some time. Sure you have Peet's Coffee that originally launched in Berkeley many decades ago but there is also other roast operations such as Henry Kalebjian, who has been roasting in SF since 1965. 

Recently, his House of Coffee sent me out some coffee to sample, one of them their Colombia Lite Roast. I sampled it through drip, french press and siphon infusions. 

The drip delivered notes of milk chocolate,corn, raspberry, au jus, spinach, milky and a little wheat. A fairly tasty brew with a medium body.

The french press held flavors of corn, milk, cocoa, little wheat, romaine, fig and apple. Not as bright as the first cup but a little sweeter.

The siphon delivered corn, milk, cocoa, raspberry, au jus and spinach. This cup was good, though much more meaty with a little hint of iron.

Of the Colombians I've consumed, Henry roasts a pretty decent one with some delightful flavors. Give it a go, whether you're in town or ordering online.

note: coffee was provided free of charge and the above review is objective feedback.

CC: Asado Coffee Co

What does CC mean?

Subject: Asado Coffee Co

Location: Chicago, IL

Free WiFi ? : yes

Rating: 6+ [see key]

Back before smart phones, I landed in Chicago for a university conference and one night I determined to go for a walk. The weather was fair and I was feeling energetic, so taking in the fair sights of Chi-town, I kept walking in a straight line for some time. After a good 2 hours or so, I finally came to my senses and since I naively viewed public transportation as more of a headache than a time-saver, I had a long walk back. But I made the best of it, took a different route and made my way home to my room with burning feet and a nice walking tour of the city under my belt.

These days I rarely strut that far, but in all of my travels in Chicago, I occasionally stumble upon places that look familiar from my fabled long walk. One such place is Asado Coffee Co, a Chicago roaster that exists in a small, uniquely-colored shop on West Irving Park Rd. My last trip, not being as interested in it's hard shell as I was the gooey center, I stepped into a shop with tiled ceiling, green walls and a cozy-but-spacious use of space between seating, the counter and the roaster. 

As for my coffee, I ordered an espresso (I did not catch a unique name for the coffee used) and a pourover of their Ugandan. The espresso, pulled short/medium with light brown and blonde crema distributed a light yet punchy beverage with notes of ginger, cocoa, sweet milk and salt (a fine showing!). The pourover had notes of sweet molasses, salted pork, cocoa, fresh dill, a little elderflower and a medium body that all in all proved to shine as a delightful cup of coffee. 

Thus, if you're looking for some well-roasted coffee in Lakeview, give Asado Coffee a try. 

We have a winner!

We extend a hip hip huzzah to our "Win Excellent Coffee" winner Lindsay, and her favorite coffeehouse, Verve Coffee Roasters! Her husband is pictured on location above. 

We had several nice pictures sent in, so below are a few of the entries. Thanks to all for participating and keep an eye out for future contests!

 

Mugged: White Peony [Teavivre]

What does Mugged mean?

Subject: Teavivre 

Mugged: White Peony I Bai MuDan

Rating: 4+ [see key]

White tea has always seemed like the most exotic of teas to me, with its reputation as the tea of emperors and a drink not really known in the western world until relatively recently. Others reasons that contribute may be it's method of harvest (hand selecting the best buds and leaves), the toted health benefits or maybe it's just the higher price tag. 

Yet regardless of the economical or historical factors that elevate white tea, it certainly offers a delicious style of tea that black, green and oolong do not match. Recently I had the pleasure of sampling a bag of White Peony from Teavivire. The bag was full of large, dry leaves with the usual white tea look of little processing. In my infusions, the peony offered a splendidly smooth, light-bodied tea. Flavors were reminiscent of champagne, lily, sage and slight leafiness. A mildly acidic and flavorful cup of tea. 

While I wouldn't rank this as a top shelf white tea, this White Peony still offered a pleasant infusion. If you're seeking a delicious white tea, seek out this one.

note: tea was provided free of charge and the above review is objective feedback. 

Mugged: Tai Wai Oolong [Teavivre]

What does Mugged mean?

Subject: Teavivre 

Mugged: Tai Wai Oriental Beauty Oolong I Bai Hao

Rating: 4+ [see key]

Oolong to me is the "shades of grey" between green (unfermented) and black (fermented) teas. Having a lot of different flavors and profiles, I can't say I've had many oolongs that have identical properties.

Recently I was able to add Teavivre's Tai Wai Oriental Beauty to my list, the last of the four teas I was sent to review. The buds offered a tea with pear, hibiscus, carrot, bit of dandelion and spearmint. To succinctly put it, the tea was overall smooth and subdued; a nice tea that would pairs swell with light fare.

If you would like a decent oolong that has muted yet varied flavors, give this beauty a try.

note: tea was provided free of charge and the above review is objective feedback. 

CC: Bull Run Roasting Co

What does CC mean?

Subject: Bull Run Roasting Co 

Location: Minneapolis, MN

Free WiFi ? : yes

Rating: 6+ [see key]

I must say, if I haven't said it already, that Minneapolis is laid out quite beautifully. Not only were things fairly accessible by multiple means of movement (auto, bike, foot AND bunnyhop) but it was clearly set up to be a liveable town; a beautiful marriage of suburbia and city, with your nice house but a short walk from your corner coffeehouse or eatery. 

Bull Run Roasting Company is one such corner establishment that caught my attention when I was in the fair Twin Cities. Their sharp red exterior gave a pleasant foreshadowing of the cozy interior of wood, brick and orange walls amidst the long corridor inside.

After wandering in and making my way to the counter, I ordered an espresso (the name of the coffee twas not spoken) from their La Marzocco and a drip of their Mocha Java. Pulled short with brown crema, the espresso bore the notes of chocolate, cherry, salt, wheat bread and a little whiskey within a velvety texture; a scrumptious pull that was both vibrant and tasty. The drip held flavors of strawberry, caramel, shortbread, a little nutmeg, a mild earthiness and just the right about of sweetness to make it punch true (i.e. also delicious). 

If you live nearby, I would say I envy thee. And for the transients among us, make Bull Run a stop on your sojourn. 

 

 

WIN EXCELLENT COFFEE!

Thanks to the great folks at GoCoffeeGo, we're fixing to give away a free bag of coffee to one lucky winner! 

To boost some local coffee love, all that we're looking for is your favorite local coffee-serving establishment.

Specifically, we're talking about independent, non-chain establishments (i.e. no Dunkin or McDonalds) that serve up a sensational cup of coffee and/or espresso. Also, if you send a picture that you took of said establishment (kinda like the above one), you get a second entry! Additionally, if we get enough quality pics, we might put them up in an album/slideshow (so make it good!).

-----------------


ENTER HERE

-----------------


Entries will be received up until 11:59 PM on Tuesday, April 24 EST. Then, one lucky winner will be drawn and they will get to pick any coffee from GoCoffeeGo.com!


Other Rules:
- Contest is only open to those 18 and older with a shipping address in the 50 United States. 
- One email entry and one picture entry per person.
- The coffee establishment must currently be operating and a legal business (i.e. your kitchen doesn't count).
- Pictures must be original pictures and the person entering this contest must have full rights of the image.
- The image sent must be in a jpg or png format. Do not send pdfs or other file formats.
- The availability of certain GoCoffeeGo 'Limited Offerings' for this contest is left to the discretion of GoCoffeeGo.
- The coffee chosen from GoCoffeeGo can vary from 8-16 oz. so if you win, look carefully at the bag weight.
- Misleading or false information can lead to disqualification from this contest. 




 God speed!

Mugged: Bailin Gongfu Black Tea [Teavivre]

What does Mugged mean?

Subject: Teavivre 

Mugged: Bailin Gongfu Black Tea

Rating: 5+ [see key]

The other week I decided to grab a Malta to accompany my entree at a local Caribbean eatery. Having never really consumed a full bottle in one sitting, I was surprised at how intense it was. Had it been scaled back a bit, it would have been much better.  

But I finally found the flavor of malt in a well-balanced medley, albeit in a slightly unlikely place: Teavivre's Bailin Gongfu Black Tea. In my infusions, this black tea proved to hold a truly sweet, malty flavor accompanied by a milky mouth-feel, a subtle smokiness, light cocoa and a twang of cinnamon. While this naturally sweet and hearty tea made for a delicious beverage, if you have an aversion to malt you might not be as satisfied. 

Still, whether you're a malt-lover or hater, give this tea a try. It's a perfect compliment to any breakfast or dessert course, proving both satisfying and sweet.

note: tea was provided free of charge and the above review is objective feedback.

Mugged: Dragon Well Green Tea [Teavivre]

 

What does Mugged mean?

Subject: Teavivre 

Mugged: Premium grade Dragon Well Green Tea

Rating: 5+ [see key]

 

Anticipation is sometimes almost as good as the object anticipated. Personally, I don't want to think like that but in looking back, I definitely do seem to cherish the planning and waiting for something positive ahead. 

 

On that note, today begins a four part, long-time-coming review of Teavivre's wares that I've been anticipating for some time. I had hoped to get these reviews out sooner but circumstances held me at bay. And of the four teas I was sent to review, I chose to tackle their green tea first.

 

The Premium grade Dragon Well had a much fresher appearance then most greens I've sampled, with flat and vibrantly-colored straight leaves. Though the tea offers a very light color, the flavor is very distinct. The lovely flavors of honey, light spinach, sesame, grass and grapefruit leap from the cup, demonstrating smooth yet sassy infusions that proved both refreshing and soothing. 

Amongst the green teas I've had, this one definitely ranked high as a solidly delicious green tea. Personally, I would utilize this Premium Dragon Well for both hot or cold infusions (the cold could be beautifully accented with some honey or mild citrus). 

note: tea was provided free of charge and the above review is objective feedback.

CC: Stable Cafe

What does CC mean?

Subject: Stable Cafe 

Location: San Francisco, CA

Free WiFi ? : yes

Rating: 6+ [see key]

As you walk through a city, it's interesting to see how some businesses cooperate to make the most of a space. Granted, it's rare but sometimes, you see a well-executed set-up where two or three businesses share a common space and make it work beautifully.

In my time in San Francisco, I happened upon Stable Cafe, a coffeehouse and eatery that was reputed to serve some superb infusions of De La Paz coffee. When I arrived, I discovered that the space was home to several businesses, including an architect, bike courier and the Three Babes pie counter (their salty honey walnut pie set my tongue a-dancing).

But pie and bikes aside, I was really there for the coffee. The place was designed most appealingly, with a black exterior, large windows and an adjoining patio area. Inside, the cafe is two levels, with exposed wood rafters and an effective capitalization of space for seating.

I ordered an espresso of the Oscillations blend and a drip of the El Sana Morello. The drip produced notes of honey, corn, sassafras, vanilla, maple and a smidgen of beef broth; a tasty cup with a mellow sweetness. The espresso, pulled to a medium volume and with light brown crema, gave off the flavors of dark cocoa, basil, lemon torte, sesame seeds and bran. Both the coffee and espresso were prepared well and aside from minor imperfections, were both delicious.

If you are looking for an inspiring space to grab some good coffee and possibly get some other things done through stellar local businesses, give Stable Cafe a visit. 

Mugged: Traditional Roast [Gevalia]

What does Mugged mean?

Subject: Gevalia Kaffe 

Mugged: Traditional Roast

Rating: 4+ [see key]

While I am a strong advocate for roasters who go above and beyond to not only produce a fine product but also educate the masses on better coffee practices, I will concede that most folks do not seem interested in that yet. Sure, people are more and more treating their coffee like fine wine and craft beer, but most people still consider their big-name coffees something more akin to a brand of ketchup.

But to the credit of some coffee roasters who have long held a stigma of mediocre product in fancy packaging, there is a concerted effort to make better coffee available. Take Gevalia, a long-time producer of coffee from Sweden who is best known for their "buy our coffee online and we'll give you a free coffee maker" approach. While the old coffee-&-coffeepot method still rolls on, they seem to have additionally dove into the practice of selling their beans whole bean with more of an emphasis on quality.

Curious as to how this distantly roasted-&-packaged coffee held up under scrutiny, I accepted the offer to review a bag of their Traditional Roast whole bean. I brewed it in the usual three manners of drip, french press and siphon.

The drip sent out a cup brimming with notes of cocoa, sweet corn, sourpatch kids, tea with cream and rice pudding. The body was light, mellow and the overall flavors were tasty.

The french press held similar notes, with cocoa, honey, wheat, rice pudding, torte and cream amidst a medium body. Also a good cup though not as delicious as the first.

The siphon brewed a coffee with wheat, cocoa, corn chip, rice, cream and a hint of ginger. Also satisfying, though a bit too mellow in flavor potency.

To my chagrin, the only concerns I had about this coffee were that the flavors were a tad muted. But for a coffee coming from Gevalia, I was quite pleased (though since this one was sent right to me, I wonder if/how they manage to keep the coffee fresh with in-store bags). If you're in the market for a decent medium roast from a giant coffee roaster, give Gevali'a's Traditional Roast a try.


note: coffee was provided free of charge and the above review is objective feedback.

CC: Alaska Coffee Roasting Co.

What does CC mean?

Subject: Alaska Coffee Roasting Co.

Location: Fairbanks, AK

Free WiFi ? : yes

Rating: 5+ [see key] 

When the sun does not shine for a good part of the winter, I would imagine that your morning cup of coffee would hold an even greater significance. Hence, it would make sense that Alaskans would be terribly picky about the quality of their brews, not wanting to settle for a coffee that can only offer sparkles of taste instead of an inferno of flavor. 

 

Thus I had heard that in the Golden Heart City of Fairbanks there lay a coffee roaster that made a quality cup of coffee. This roaster was aptly titled the Alaska Coffee Roasting Co. I pulled into the strip mall housing the cafe and roastery one dreary morning, happy to walk in and find a cafe with warm wood and Alaskan-esque art creating a warm ambiance around a sea of wood seating. 

 

I ordered for myself a drip of their Ethiopian Harrar and an espresso of their Milan San Reno. The drip resounded with notes of fuji apple, buttered bisquit, walnut and a palatable sweetness; a hearty and pleasantly-piquant coffee. The espresso, pulled to a medium volume with a dark marbled crema, held notes of jalapeno, bittersweet cocoa, nutmeg, parsley and a little cream. The shots were tasty, though slightly unbalanced (a little too much spicy and bitter notes). The tea is free leaf. 

 

To put it mildly, I thought the ACRC did a pretty good job in delivering a splendid coffee experience. If you happen to be in Fairbanks, stop in at the Alaska Coffee Roasting Co. 

 

Mugged: Costa Rica [Rev Coffee]

What does Mugged mean?

Subject: Rev Coffee Roasters

Mugged: Costa Rica Tarrazu Dota

Rating: 4+ [see key]

Georgia is another state that I have designs to see in the coming decade. At this point, I've only spent time in Atlanta but there's a lot more I'm fixing to do. Of course, one of those things of course is to visit some coffee venues; one of the said venues would be Rev Coffee Roasters in Smyrna. 

But in the interim, they sent me out a pound of coffee of their Costa Rica Tarrazu Dota to try. Per the regiment, I happily had it via drip, siphon and french press.

The drip produced notes of white zinfandel, honey, cornbread, basil, a bit of fig and some minor hay in a medium body. A sweet cup with a bit of sharpness.

The french press held flavors of honey, white zinfandel, bran, wheat cracker and some spinach. A bright cup with some minor sharp qualities.

The siphon demonstrated white zinfandel, honey, wheat, spinach, corn, bran and a little apple amidst a medium body. This was the smoothest of the three infusions. 

While I found this coffee a little sharp in some infusions and teensy bit underwhelming, it did indeed prove delicious and a nice coffee for a mellow afternoon. If you're in the market for a good Costa Rican, give Rev Coffee a swirl.

note: coffee was provided free of charge and the above review is objective feedback.

CC: Flying Squirrel

What does CC mean?

Subject: Flying Squirrel Bakery Cafe

Location: Talkeetna, AK

Free WiFi ? : yes

Rating: 4+ [see key] 

I find great joy in finding and exploring new places, especially if that new place holds some serious character. Places like the Bay Area (San Fran) and Bozeman, MT with their unique magic set my heart ablaze and my mind into hyperdrive.

But of all of the places I've been in the States, one the most interesting has to be Talkeetna, Alaska. Built as a railroad hub (the town only in the past decade got a paved road leading to it from the highway), the town has served as a place for fishermen and mountain climbers to set up a base of operations since the early 1900s. Much of the beautifully quaint town is historic and also offers grand places to eat such as the Talkeetna Roadhouse (there I had the most amazing breakfast) and the West Rib Cafe and Pub.

To complete any gem of a town, one needs a good coffeehouse. Sadly, there was no place trumpeted by locals or coffee geeks, but upon some further research, it seemed that the Flying Squirrel Bakery Cafe right outside town was my best bet for a good cup. Serving K-Bay Coffee from Homer, a coffee I had yet to sample, I had my fingers crossed that it would be worth my time. I made my way over, pulling off the the access road into their unpaved parking lot and beheld the log cabin that is the cafe. Inside, there's a massive kitchen as well as a healthy seating area full of random tables, a vaulted ceiling, paper lanterns and warm colors. 

I ordered an espresso of their espresso blend (I failed to get a name) and a drip infusion of a blend mixed of a K-Bay coffee and a Silverhook coffee (also no specific name that I found). The drip produced a cup with a heavy body, dotted with notes of minestrone, romaine, tea biscuit, clove and vanilla. The brew was a bit too dark and a tad stale, but overall it was tasty. 

The espresso, pulled short/medium with a brownish crema, held flavors of bitter cocoa, fig bar, ginger, basil and a bit of lemon on the back end. Also a fairly palatable extraction, but not too stellar. It should also be noted that they sell alcohol and have a gorgeous ever-changing menu.

While the town of Talkeetna blew me away with its character, I found the Flying Squirrel to be less impressive in regards to their coffee and espresso (the food I had was top notch). All that seems needed for stellar would be just a little more attention to detail with the espresso and maybe a different coffee (on the lighter side) for the drip. Nonetheless, still glide into Flying Squirrel if you're passing through for a decent cup.

Mugged: El Salvador [Kifu Coffee]

What does Mugged mean?

Subject: Kifu Coffee Roasters

Mugged: El Salvador Santa Rita Natural

Rating: 4+ [see key]

How a coffee is processed after harvest has a huge impact on what you end up drinking. Yes, this statement is obvious and elementary to most people reading this, but it seems a lot of people still remain oblivious to it. Yet for the still small recognition it gets, it really exemplifies the huge role that the farmers play in making great coffee. Stellar beans come from back-breaking work and lots of thorough processing.

One of the older methods of processing coffee that today has flared up in popularity is the dry process, which allows the cherry to dry on the bean, resulting in the bean absorbing much more of the fruit then in other methods like the wet fermentation or machine-assisted wet processing. Recently I was able to try out one of Kifu Coffee's dry processed coffees, this one from El Salvador, a coffee reputed to have lots of apple. I sampled it via drip, siphon and french press.

The drip produced a cup with grapefruit, nutmeg, corn on the cob, shredded wheat, a little hickory and some earthiness amidst a medium body. A bright and smooth coffee that proved fairly delicious. 

The french press held less brightness, with less flavor of grapefruit but still similar tastes of corn on the cob, nutmeg, shredded wheat, powdered sugar and hickory amidst a medium body. This cup proved also delicious though not as wonderful as the drip. 

The siphon proved in the middle of the other two infusions, with a bright flavor more resembling a tea of rose petals, although corn and grapefruit still appeared in addition to sugar, nutmeg and a little smokiness within a medium body. Overall good. 

Kifu's El Salvador proved to be a spiffy dry processed coffee, though I never really found the brightness to be like an apple (more tart then most apples I've had). Aside from some minor over-piquant notes and some light smokiness (it didn't seem to fit), I would heartily recommend this coffee.

note: coffee was provided free of charge and the above review is objective feedback.

CC: Quixotic Coffee

Subject: Quixotic Coffee

Location: St. Paul, MN

Free WiFi ? : yes

Rating: 6+ [see key] 

A good name is all too important when you first dub your coffee business. While some go for simple ("town's name coffee") or pun-ny ("sir ippee coffee"), something that projects a good mental concept is what I find to be best. Few places have done a better job in setting my mind ablaze with visual imagery then Quixotic Coffee.

Fortunately, finding and interacting with Quixotic Coffee was anything but quixotic. I found their location in a nice strip of shops near the Mississippi River with large open windows. Within, the place is a bit dark, with rich red walls, a black ceiling and a very minimalistic layout complete with a conference room in the back. 

Moving on to the coffee, I ordered two drinks that utilized Mad Cap Coffee (though they also rotate in other roasters): a drip of their Santa Lucia Costa Rican and an espresso of their 3rd coast blend. The espresso, pulled short with dark tan crema, demonstrated black berry jam amidst a creamy texture, with hints of coriander, sesame and light salt (a delicious and skillful pull). The Costa Rican came out blazing with bullets of cherry, hefeweizen, coca cola, cascara, black tea and a little fig amidst a medium body; also a tasty cup of coffee all too pleasant.

Unlike Don Quixote, I found exactly what I was hoping to find in Quixotic Coffee. Definitely give them a go if you're in the Twin Cities. 

Mugged: Ethiopian Yirgi [Peter Asher]

'

What does Mugged mean?

Subject: Peter Asher Coffee and Tea

Mugged: Ethiopian Yirgi

Rating: 4+ [see key]

The second of the coffees I have had the pleasure of trying out from Peter Asher Coffee and Tea was their Ethiopian Yirgi (short for Yirgacheffe). It was summarized as a great coffee for one's morning cup and being a big fan of a good coffee in the AM, I girded my loins and poured myself a cup via the usual three different methods of drip, french press and siphon.

The drip rolled out notes of cranberry juice, chocolate, candied walnut, molasses, pork chop and a bit of cumin amidst a light/medium body. A sweet brew with a tiny bite.

The french press held out a similar cup, with notes of blackberry, bittersweet chocolate, honey, molasses, sage and cornflakes. A slightly piquant brew with decent balance.

The vacuum press delivered chocolate, blackberry, a little wheat, cheerios, honey and cornflakes amidst a medium body. Sweet with ample notes of grain.

While I can't say that this Yirgacheffe was the best I've had, it definitely ranks as a coffee that I would dub as a well-suited companion for the traditional light American breakfast (cereal, pastry, etc). If you're looking for a light, sweet-noted Ethiopian, give Peter Asher's a swirl.


note: coffee was provided free of charge and the above review is objective feedback.

Thanks to my current sponsors!

I would simply like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to my sponsors. Their partnership with the Pure Coffee Blog helps keep the blog going and me better able to create better content. 

A BIG THANKS to:

Hamilton Beach Coffee Makers

J. Martinez & Company

www.thedrawingboardsigns.com 

La Cafetière 

Teavivre.com   

Moka Pot

 

CC: Cafe Del Mundo

What does CC mean?


Subject: Cafe Del Mundo

Location: Anchorage, AK

Free WiFi ? : yes

Rating: 5+ [see key]

When I had first heard of Anchorage coffee a decade ago, the two cafes that were mentioned to me were Cafe Del Mundo and the Kaladi Brothers. Then a little under a year ago, Kaladi purchased Cafe Del Mundo, though the pledge was to keep the two separate, aiming to keep Cafe Del Mundo the same as it has always been.

With this in mind, I strode through the doors of Anchorage's oldest coffee roaster-and-retail shop, not caring so much as to whether the coffee was still true to the del Mundo ways as I hoped for a solid coffee experience. The cafe itself stood arrayed in a calm,1980s-wood-and-soft-lights manner, with a counter stretching the length of the store and plenty of hearty wooden chairs for patrons to utilize. 

Before I found a seat near two European posters, I ordered myself a drip of their Papua New Guinea and an espresso of their Espresso Blend. The espresso, pulled to a medium volume with blonde crema, held notes of milk chocolate, cream soda, cookie dough as well as some cayenne, notes of basil and a slight burnt character. The shots weren't the best but still offered a respectably balanced and tasty spro. 

Moving on to the Papua New Guinea, the coffee relayed qualities of nuts, grass, honey, slight minestrone with celery, a pinch of sage and raw sugar. A refreshingly delicious brew that proved smooth and easy to savor.

Having later tried Kaladi Brothers (that review will come soon), I can vouch that Cafe Del Mundo is still noticeably different then it's new owner. While I felt the skill in preparation of my coffee was slightly lacking (mainly, the espresso could have been better pulled), I can say that I enjoyed my experience. Give Cafe Del Mundo a visit when you're in town. 

Mugged: Better Morning Blend [Kifu]

What does Mugged mean?

Subject: Kifu Coffee Roasters

Mugged: Better Morning Blend

Rating: 3+ [see key]

If there's two types of coffee blends you can find at most coffee roasters, it's an espresso blend and a morning blend. The espresso blend serves a function (it's the blend we use for our espresso) but the morning blend seems to be something carried over from early 20th century advertising that really serves no concrete purpose except that it's usually a light or medium roast coffee that typically goes swimmingly with pancakes.

Recently, I had the opportunity to sample Kifu Coffee's Better Morning Blend, a light/medium coffee that appeared to have good potential for the post-breakfast coffee market. I put my pancakes aside and tried it out via my french press, siphon and drip apparatus. 

The drip produced a cup flowing with grilled steak, blackberry, curry, birch, some baked apple and a fairly heavy body. An intriguing compilation to say the least with the bright notes coupled with the steak and curry.

The french press offered similar notes of steak, cilantro, buttermilk, birch, baked apple and corn amidst a medium to heavy body. A smoother cup though still a bit off with the taste of steak.

The siphon had the sweetest cup, with the flavors of molasses, corn, bran, biscuit, maple syrup and birch amidst a medium/heavy body. 

While I did find Kifu's Better Morning Blend a decent coffee amongst morning blends, there were certain aspects to it that held it back in my book (such as the grilled steak and the heavy body). But then again, if you're looking for a coffee to go well with a heavy breakfast, this coffee might be a perfect fit (if you do give it a try, let me know).

note: coffee was provided free of charge and the above review is objective feedback.

new logo and design

Yes, we're changing up the design. Let us know what you think, as it shall prove to be an ongoing work over the next few weeks.

CC: Apple Pie Bakery Cafe (CIA)

What does CC mean?

Subject: Apple Pie Bakery Cafe 

Location: Hyde Park, NY

Free WiFi ? : yes

Rating: 6+ [see key]

To be perfectly honest, a lot of mainstream chefs have let me down with the breadth of their culinary knowledge. Sure they know their food, and most at least understand their wine, but very few masters of the kitchen seem to have even heard of high quality coffee. Sadly, this seems to have stemmed largely from many sources (archaic benchmarks, corporate sponsors, etc), with poor coffee being found rampant amongst the nations finer culinary institutions.

But just when I was about to lose hope in the movers and shakers of the culinary realm, a little blue bird confided in me that the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park was serving up Counter Culture beans a la french press as well as in their espresso machine, all from within a cozy, CIA bistro dubbed the Apple Pie Bakery Cafe. Thankfully, I happened to be winding up the Hudson River one weekday and thus, I made a stop in for lunch and some coffee.

The CIA itself has a nice parking garage for visitors and finding your way through the campus was none too difficult. The Apple Pie Bakery Cafe exists in Roth Hall and is accessed in one of its many hallways. The cafe, decked in bright colors and light from large windows, was brimming with patrons, both visitors and members of the school, either eating their lunch or communing over coffee. 

I ordered a french press of a Nicaraguan (in my haste, I did not write down which Nicaraguan) and an espresso of the Toscana blend. The espresso held a monotone brown crema and was pulled to a short/medium volume. It held flavors of bittersweet cocoa, lemon, cider, potato chip, a bit of salt and romaine. The shots were definitely pulled in a more traditional (Italian) fashion but the use of great beans made this a great espresso. The Nicaraguan held notes of subtle roses, cherry candy, asian pear, sweet tea, seaweed salad and a bit of caramel in smooth, light/medium body. 

To put it succinctly, I was delighted with my experience. The CIA proved that at least some of the culinary intelligentsia in the world recognize good coffee. If you happen to be in Hyde Park or close by, stop by the Apple Pie Bakery Cafe for a stellar lunch, snack or great cup of coffee.

Mugged: Geisha [Sea Island]

What does Mugged mean?

Subject: Sea Island Coffee

Mugged: Geisha, Costa Rica

Rating: 4+ [see key]

It's hard to believe that coffee trees used to be confined to East Africa, especially in today's world economy where a place with the right climate will grow coffee on at least one farm. Some places, like the island of Java, trace it's coffee trees to about the 17th century, but even today some coffee varieties are still being exported.

One such variety that has gotten an excessive amount of publicity is the geisha variety, primarily for the hefty price it fetched in some Cup of Excellence auctions. Having had the pleasure of sampling some that fabled expensive coffee, I was impressed with it then and since, I've welcomed opportunities to try similar varieties. My most recent encounter with a geisha is from Sea Island Coffee with their Geisha, Costa Rica, the second of the two coffees sent out for review. I sampled it via drip, french press and siphon.

The drip relayed notes of honey graham cracker, wheat, strawberry, a bit of cocoa, anise and some peppercorn amidst a medium body. A delicious coffee though the peppercorn proved not an attractive facet.

The french press issued a brew with more graham cracker and wheat, strawberry and a little peppercorn and cocoa within a medium body. Also good minus peppercorn.

The siphon was my favorite of this coffee, demonstrating notes of honey, a bit of nuttiness, strawberry, cocoa and hay.

Encapsulated, I can't say I'd pay as high a price as the CoE geishas fetched, but Sea Island still roasts a good geisha. Especially if you're on the right side of the Atlantic, give Sea Island's Costa Rica Geisha a swirl.



note: coffee was provided free of charge and the above review is objective feedback.

CC: De La Paz

What does CC mean?

Subject: De La Paz Coffee Roasters

Location: San Francisco, CA

Free WiFi ? : yes

Rating: 6+ [see key]

There have been countless times when my travel plans and coffeehouse hours have not lined up. Usually late afternoons, nights and holidays play the culprit, though it always seems to be a weird mix of factors (the owners are getting married on a Wednesday). But sometimes I wander into a blessed form of a Bermuda Triangle where all the factors line up and the timing becomes perfect.

Such it was with De La Paz Coffee Roasters. I managed to find some time to show up during the small window of Friday between 8 AM - 1 PM, the only time this roaster's soon-to-be-coffee-bar serves up coffee and espresso to the masses. The space would be hard to spot from the street were it not for the street sign, but since they seem to want to move in the direction of a speak-easy-like bar setting (one that serves amazing coffee and espresso), it seemed fitting. 

Inside the atmosphere was basic, more utilitarian then it was inviting (it's under construction), but the mood of the De La Paz-ians more then compensated. Few places held such a jovial nature; there were folks from Sightglass (literally, the coffee roaster around the corner) hanging out and shooting the breeze with their "competition" (a beautiful instance of comradery rarely seen in most industries). I was quickly greeted upon my entering in a friendly manner, though also given my space to peruse and acclimate.

I finally settled on their Oscillations blend for some espresso and a pourover of La Violeta, a micro lot from Costa Rica's  Finca El Llano in Tarrazu. The Violeta proved delicious, with notes of lager, peanut, caramel, a little hyacinth, spinach and pinch of lemon zest amidst a medium body. The espresso also gave a stand up performance, with the flavors of almond, butter, tangerine, wheat thins and sage performing amidst a short pull with brown crema.

Apparently their new digs are due to open up in February, so if you happen to live in the Bay area or you plan to visit, keep your Friday AM open if you go pre-opening.

Mugged: High Jump [Deep Cello]

What does Mugged mean?

Subject: Deep Cello

Mugged: High Jump

Rating: 4+ [see key]

Of all the sports I played throughout my life, Track & Field was my favorite. As a javelin thrower and shot putter, I would get to spend nice spring days chucking objects around a field with little pressure other then to make sure my throws were comparable to the upcoming competition (cutthroat, huh?). 

But if you were to ask me which events were the toughest amidst the old Olympic events, I always thought anything that involved flinging yourself into the air was pretty bold. Pole vault definitely scared the skittles out of me (I'm big and uncoordinated; let me just use a skinny stick to launch my weight over a 9 foot wall) and long jump seemed risky (jump as far as you can and land on your tailbone). The only one that looked fun and worth the risk was the high jump. 

But even though I never got to try the high jump in the field, I was able to taste Deep Cello's High Jump blend in my mug. A light roast sent out to me to review, I dove into it via the three infusion methods of drip, siphon and french press.

The drip threw out subtle notes of milk chocolate, butter, wheat toast, peanuts, honey, cranberry and cinnamon amidst a medium body. A tasty infusion with a variety of flavors. 

The french press was a little different, with notes of pie crust, milk chocolate, vanilla, clove and cranberry jumping out amidst a medium body.

The siphon polished off with an smooth infusion of milk chocolate, wheat toast, cranberry, peanut, honey and bran within a medium-bodied brew. 

Overall, I found the coffee to be tasty with lots of flavor, though the potency was not as strong as I would have liked and the flavors a little too piquant. Nonetheless, still a good coffee; try the High Jump if you're looking for a decent light-roasted blend. 

note: coffee was provided free of charge and the above review is objective feedback. 

CC: The Cup

What does CC mean?

Subject: The Cup

Location: Las Vegas, NV

Free WiFi ? : yes

Rating: 4+ [see key]

My final coffee stop in Sin City was a place that was also located in the Crystals, a shop located very discreetly in the back first floor called the Cup. Rumored to me by one source to have decent espresso, it took me a walk or two around the Crystals to actually find it but only around the corner and down the stairs from my earlier coffee stop.

A cute-looking venue with a huge orange window and tons of white, the place has a nice array of art and furniture, perfect for the tourist looking for a break from the crowds. Asking the barista of the coffee, they informed me it was "their own" (which in trying to clarify, I wasn't able to decipher whether it was a "secret supplier" situation or they roast their own, though my guess is the former). I ordered a doubleshot off their Victoria Arduino machine of their espresso blend and their signature blend a la regular drip.

The espresso, pulled short/medium and with a flat brown crema, was a tad burnt in the front, with notes of dark cocoa, deep sassafras and lapsang souchong; an overall decent pair of shots though the extraction could have been better. The drip proved pleasant as well, with a smooth, light body and notes of honey, hyacinth, multigrain, wheat grass and brazil nut as well as a tinge of slight staleness (twas later in the day, so the pot probably sat). The tea is Stash.

While I wasn't as floored as I had hoped to be, the Cup still provided a fair coffee and espresso experience, especially compared to the many other coffee stands doling out over-roasted swill nearby. Thus, if you're in the Crystals looking for a cafe that has a nice environment and decent coffee, try the Cup.