Got a chance this morning to try the beans I received in the post yesterday. No surprise who they were from, with name on the back (and a PM informing me they were sent). Bag#1 - Super: First thing I noticed when I opened the bag was robusta aroma. Not put off at all, and proceeded to dial in the grinder for espresso (mind you, it's been about a good couple months since the machine has been used). Loads of crema (about 1.5cm all up), would be interesting to see how it works with latte art (if one was so inclined - I'm not). I'm not a milk-based drinker, so I took it neat. If the aim of the roaster was to mimic an italian-style espresso, then they've done a good job of it. My only complaint would be that it needs something else (I would like more fruit characters). Would seem to me that this was meant to be paired with milk. Bag#2 - BH1: Dated 3/8 I figured it was a bit young but I gave it a go anyway. Similar aesthetically to #1. Palate was a bit confused on first taste. Front end was fairly flat, but ascended towards the finish. I tend to lean towards front-mid palate dominant characters. I always see finish as an afterthought (usually pleasant, but not the main aim of a roast). This roast is particularly focused in the finish. It still may be early days, and require some more rest.
