78	Starbucks Coffee Seattle, Washington Christmas Blend Roast: Dark Review Date: December 1998 Origin: Various Price: NA

Blind Assessment: A wonderful nose, full of bittersweet chocolate and deep vanilla tones, but disappointing in the cup: a clean, dry, but rather hard pungency bullies nuance into submission. A hint of carbon, little sweetness.

Notes: A wonderful nose, full of bittersweet chocolate and deep vanilla tones, but disappoints in the cup: a clean, dry, but rather hard pungency bullies nuance into submission. Hint of carbon, little sweetness. Given the accusations of hype often leveled at Starbucks, the simple name "Christmas Blend" has a reassuringly straightforward ring. Unfortunately, the coffee inside the bag may be a bit too straightforward.

Who Should Drink It: The holiday factor:I've tasted far better Starbucks coffees. If you're running late, giftless for the office party, and a green mermaid looms above the holiday traffic promising last-minute gift potential, pass on this blend and buy a pound of one of Starbucks' often outstanding single-origin coffees.

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