Perkdup

One of my all-time limited offerings from Starbucks is back.   Guatemala Casi Cielo . This single-origin coffee with hints of chocolate is a "must try" if you haven't experienced it before.   " Casi Cielo " is Spanish for "almost heaven."  And while I wouldn't take it that far, I would say that it is definitely one of the more superior coffees you will get from Starbucks (with the exception of the "Reserve(TM)" roasts). At 14.95 a pound, it may be slightly more than some of the standard coffees, but certainly a fair price for a premium coffee. Limited offering.  

I'll admit that I was reluctant to try the new Colombia Luminosa from Peet's Coffee .   So much so, that when the barista offered me the free sample bag I left it on the kitchen counter for a week before I got up the courage to brew it. I use the word "courage" because my initial thought was, "if Peet's is known for its dark signature roast,  could a roast this light really be Peet's?" It really is Peet's.   And it's actually quite good. Completely different from the Peet's I've known for so many years.   I think the characteristic I enjoy most about the Colombia Luminosa is its sweet flavor.  Exactly like the package says, "Mild, Sweetly Aromatic, Smooth." Something new from something old to add to my rotation. Happy Monday!

Smith Variety Assortment No. 1626 Imagine if you could get 12 of your favorite teas into one "treasure chest" of a box, each sachet perfectly wrapped in its own "personalized" flavor-sealed package with directions on how to prepare and best enjoy it?  Would that make you feel happy?  I think it would.  Or, at least, it should. Well, that's exactly how I felt after opening this box from Steve Smith Teamaker. It's fancy, high quality, delicious and fun. If you can't find your favorite in this box, then I think you might want to consider just sticking with water. 14.99 for 12 sachets *Smith Teamaker provided me with a free "variety" box for purposes of preparing this review which in no way hindered my enjoyment nor influenced this review.

8-Cup Chemex (R) I just love making pour-over coffee using the Chemex (R) Method. I admit that I don't always have time (or take time).  But when my schedule permits, I love going through the steps: 1.  Grind 2.  Heat Water 3.  Pour 4.  Watch it "bubble" 5.   Enjoy! I had a 3-cup Chemex(R) having broken my 6-cupper years ago, but thanks to a Christmas gift card, I'm back in the "big league" with a brand new 8-cup model. This morning I'm enjoying a big cup of Community Coffee French Roast .  Just because I can. Bonjour!   *  Brand New Key " is a  popular music  song written and sung by  folk  music singer  Melanie  , which became a  novelty  success during 1971-72

Can't believe that another year has come and gone.  But isn't it wonderful to be able to begin anew? There were so many wonderful coffees that I enjoyed in 2014, and I'm kicking off 2015 with a premium Guatemala El Portal Antigua coffee from one of my most favorite "micro-roasters." The roastermaster's description says that it comes from the " Antigua region of Guatemala, nestled between three volcanoes, grown at high altitudes in rich volcanic soil ."  They sure grow good coffee there. It's one of the better and more unusual blends that I've had recently.  And while the description describes describes "hints of dates and silky mocha," I taste chocolate-y richness with just a little bit of acidity and no bitterness. Quantities are limited, so you'll want to order yours today from Weaver's . Let's toast to a new year and great coffee!