UncleBeanz.com NEW Espresso Blend

Uncle Beanz is one Hell of an operation. Not only do they roast some of the best coffee around, not only are they run by one Hell of a great guy – Norman, but they are also great people – philanthropists. . . they care.

Recently, OUT OF THE BLUE / FOR NO REASON, they sent me a bunch of Beanz to try. All they asked is that I roast them and post a review. As much as I'd like to do the review justice - I have a hard time pulling flavors out of coffee. I often know if it is bold or soft and if I like it or not. That is about it. A few other things come to mind: acidity, sharp, etc - but my mouth can't pick up the tiny nuances that others can in coffee.

My thoughts on this, the newest Beanz espresso blend, is this: Chocolaty, slight hints of fruit with a nutty aftertaste that goes on for days (I can't do better than that). Roasted last night to a Full City roast, this blend of Beanz produced LOADS of crema. The smell of roasted and brewed Beanz filled my kitchen - and I ain't complainin'. This stuff was great. SMOOOOTH! One of my favorite espresso blends I've had, and I'm not just saying that. I can't wait to try it after it rests some more over the next few days. I often find I like SM's espresso blends on days 3, 4 and 5.

Anyhoo, thank you kindly Norman - this stuff is great!

My set-up (paper towels are needed because the naked portafilter tends to send 'sprayers' if you don't get a good distribution and tamp):

Heating the portafilter, group head and cup:

Solis Maestro Plus doing it's job nicely:

The Espro tamper is GREAT for newbs and experienced espresso junkies alike. It 'clicks' at 30 lbs of pressure, taking the guess work out of your tamp pressure:

All tamped and ready to go:

Here it starts:

A second later:

In full swing:

Shot #1 in the cup:

After a quick stir:

Mmmmmmm, all gone!

Shot #2:

Shot #2 in the middle of the pull:

GOOD STUFF!

Thanks again Norman!

-T