Organization: Espresso Vivace, Seattle, Washington
Coffee: Espresso Vita
Reviewed: February 2004
Overall Rating: 89 points
Roast (Agtron): Medium (44/60)
Estimated Price:
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Origin: Not disclosed

Notes: Under the leadership of espresso innovator, pundit and writer David Schomer, Espresso Vivace has developed into on of the Northwest's (and the country's) best-known boutique espresso roasters, whose goal, according to the Vivace website, is "to research, develop, and promote caffe espresso as a culinary art." Espresso Vita is specifically designed to show well in milk-heavy drinks. Visit www.espressovivace.com or call 206-860-5869 for more information.

Blind Assessment: For Ken this naturally low-acid, lighter roasted blend was "Sweetly musty, cherry and apple in the aroma, heavy body with a tingle in the mouthfeel, crisp and toasty rather than sharp in the small cup, with excellent dimension and range."(91) Willem was less excited: "Bubbly and rich body. Chocolate, caramel notes with mildly woody then fruit notes in the aftertaste." (87) For both Ken and Willem, this blend came most distinctly into its own in milk. "Wonderful mastery of milk" according to Ken, "rich, complete, with a sort of carnal, earth-toned fruity chocolate." Willem: "Fantastic with milk: sweet, rich, lingering chocolate."

Who should drink it: Those who value character over elegance; anyone who takes espresso with milk.

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