My nose knew it before the first cup was even ready. This has the right full aroma to go with an even better taste. Some whole bean coffees I've sampled over the last few years can be inconsistent from one brewing to the next. I usually make cappuccino by the cup, so it happens to me more often with the smaller amount of grounds I prep for each one. One single bean that's bitter can ruin the flavor of one shot of espresso if someone in the factory makes a choice to blend in lesser beans to maximize profits - or - maybe they're just lousy blenders.
That's not, so far, been my experience with my first 3 pounds of Jose's Vanilla Nut. It has been extremely predictable from one grinding to the next. It is also fresher, more flavorful, and less 'oily' than most of what's otherwise available in it's price range. I've been grinding my own coffee for over 40 years, and at least 35 of those includes drinking flavored varieties, so this isn't my first go-round with what to expect from either traditional or fancy flavored beans.
Local supplies have changed for me recently, and some of my favorite brands and/or flavors were no longer being stocked... so finding a decent replacement was needed. This is one bean that's already become an instant favorite over others that are easily double its price (and the accompanying gushing reviews that fell flat for me on any actual tasting). It does have a bit of a lingering after taste, but in this case that's a good thing, and certainly not bitter. Although there's nothing on the package to indicate what specific oils are used, the "kiss of vanilla" line in it's description text hints that real vanilla might be used. The 'nut' part of the formula isn't mentioned at all, but it doesn't taste like it's artificially flavored, or 'burnt'.
The beans are well packed in sturdy foil bags, but not 'stuffed' in or overly vacuum sealed to remove all excess air. Another plus is the 'best by...' date on the bags that indicate these really are fresh beans. Overall - well worth a try if your taste buds enjoy nutty vanilla coffee. I'm off to order another bag or two of my own.
100% Arabica Coffee, Natural & Artificial Flavors.
