Blind Assessment: Evaluated as espresso. Integrated, cocoa-and floral-toned. Cocoa powder, star jasmine, toffee, dried plum, clove in aroma and small cup. Juicy, lightly satiny mouthfeel; cocoa-driven finish with undertones of sweet clove. In three parts milk, spice-dominant (think clove and fresh-cut thyme) with understated but ever-present cocoa.

Notes: MK Coffee Roasters, a short walk from the Shulin train station in New Taipei City, specializes in high-quality roasted beans to take home and expertly brewed coffees to enjoy in the café. Visit www.facebook.com/MKCoffeeRoasters or e-mail [email protected] for more information.

The Bottom Line: An adult espresso blend with austere harmonies of delicate chocolate and warm, dusky spice.