Starbucks Espresso Regalo

A few weeks ago, I was excited to hear about Starbucks’ new coffee offering of the season.  Yes, Christmas Blend was back, and that was exciting, but there was also a new espresso in town that I was eager to try called Espresso Regalo.  Starbucks had never offered an alternative espresso roast until now, and the fact that this offering was 100% organic was also a plus.  The beans weigh in at 8.95 for a half pound, and I grabbed one on its release date, brought it home, and immediately brewed a French Press of this new blend.

Espresso Regalo is a blend of beans from Costa Rica’s Central Valley and Ethiopia Yirgacheffe.  As I opened the bag and smelled, I was hit by a very pungent nose.  It was a sweet, roasty smell with herbal and spice notes.  It almost smelled burnt, or over-charred, but I would reserve judgment until the tasting.  After 4 minutes of brewing, I pressed the coffee and poured a cup.  The brewed nose was more subdued, but still boasted a toasty nose with herbal and citrusy undertones.  The taste was bold and upfront, with bright, sparkling flavors of lemons, spice, and menthol.  The espresso’s body was much smoother and full, and it finished with a sweet lemon essence, not unlike a Ricola cough drop.

I enjoyed the unique flavors in this organic espresso.  I drank it as a French Press instead of espresso, as it was intended, and would love to give that brewing method a whirl with these beans.  All coffee connoisseurs need to try these beans, and they are truly something special and unique, and are also only available for a limited time.