It's been rumored that Cuvee Coffee...

was the first company to successfully keg and tap cold brew.  Whether thats a fact or not is besides the point, but a company that is looking to innovate in the industry is a company that I respect.  Cuvee, like many specialty coffee companies, is developing relationships with farmers to secure direct trade coffees.  They are sourcing ethically, sustainably, and responsibly, which is also something I have come to expect from a modern specialty coffee company.

I've personally never been to Austin, or even Texas for that matter.  This is part of the reason I love the La Marzocco Home Subscription, it brings coffees from all over the country, and the world, to my doorstep.  These two bags from Austin's own Cuvee Coffee marks the first coffee's of the second year of Roasters in Residence at the La Marzocco Cafe, and its kicking it off with a bang!

As usual two bags of espresso arrived and I cracked into them right away.  The first coffee I tried was the Karmadillo.  It's a blend five origins, and is labeled as a "Dark Espresso Blend".  This comes across right away by the smell of the beans.  They have that distinct roasty scent that comes along with longer development times.  The espresso itself has notes of bakers chocolate, and less acidity with more of a bitter bite at the finish.  It holds up well to milk, but that roasty flavor still comes through, which isn't really my jam.

The other espresso blend is called Stella Cometa, and its a more focused and lightly roasted blend.  There are only four coffees in this one, and as espresso it has that acidic punch up front and smoother finish that I appreciate.  It has notes of raspberry and milk chocolate, and holds up pretty well to milk in smaller drinks like cortados and cappuccinos.  It may be a bit too mild for a latte.

In the end both espressos have their merits, but for me the Stella Cometa blend is the standout for my preferences.  If you enjoy the darker side of espresso, more of a classic espresso drinker, the Karmadillo is more your speed.  You can definitely tell that these coffees are sourced, developed, and handled with care from origin to cup.  I'm sure you won't be disappointed as an informed coffee enthusiast when you pick up some coffee from Cuvee, which is why it scored a 'Buy It' on my rating scale!