Blind Assessment: Earthy, bittersweet. Fresh-cut oak, cocoa powder, fresh leather, sweet pea, lily in aroma and cup. Bittersweet structure with barely perceptible acidity; very full, creamy mouthfeel. Wood-framed finish with hints of dark chocolate and fresh leather.

Notes: Purchased at a Safeway supermarket as a nationally branded benchmark comparison for the darker-roasted coffees from smaller roasters reviewed this month. Visit www.starbucks.com for more information.

The Bottom Line: An earth-toned Sumatra cup with subdued acidity, gently dry cocoa notes, and rich aromatic wood suggestions.