Background: "If Magellan were a coffee lover, this would be his blend," says Starbucks of its latest seasonal promotion coffee. The 3 Region Blend, not surprisingly, is a pre-roast blend made up of beans from three specified origins: Tanzania, Papua New Guinea, and Guatemala. While Guatemala is a staple origins in many of Starbucks' featured coffees, Tanzania and Papua New Guinea are rarities for the company. Altogether, the blend creates a flavor much akin to yet somewhat heavier than Starbucks' summer Gazebo blend. Indeed, I can personally vouch for the amazing iced coffee that 3 Region Blend creates. Hopefully, this idea is something that will resurface in Starbucks' future.
Tasting: Aroma***; subtle florally aroma with slight syruppiness. Acidity**; very slight biting on back undersides of tongue but generally smooth. Body****; very syrupy body lingering heavily at first but diminishing within seconds. Flavor*****; intense array of flavors including predominant punchy citrus notes along with cocoa, spice, dark berries, and earthy sweetness.
I recommend this coffee as either hot or iced in the summer. It's heavy enough to hold its own for Sumtran lovers but punchy enough to satsify those who prefer African coffees.
Doug,
ReplyDeleteThanks for your review. Like you, I'm a big coffee fan but for some reason this blend hits me the wrong way. It seems excessively acidic. Maybe that is just a personal preference. Come to think of it I was never a big fan of Sumatra blend preferring French/Italian roasts and Verona. Anyway, it was an interesting read. Good luck with your Masters! You'll need lots of coffee to finish it!
Andre