Starbucks Sumatra Review

Good Points
A mellow cup, and a good introduction to coffee. Low acidity and agreeable flavor make it a good daily blend that is hard to tire of. Notes of citrus, hibiscus and cocoa mingle interestingly. Works well at any time of day, with wide variety of foods. This is also a forgiving blend which won't punish you for accidentally making it too strong. Works well in any brewing method, at any time of day. Interesting flavor redefinition as cup cools (see below).

Bad Points
The finish, aroma, flavor, and texture are still enjoyable, but only really exciting when the cup is very hot, and aftertaste can be a touch too banal (see General Comments for full explanation). I rarely take cream or sugar, but I have tried them with this coffee. Works better with cream than milk, but the best qualities are easily washed out with either. Neither cream, milk nor sweetener is advised, and the drinker encouraged to explore the subtle but exciting qualities of this black coffee which is naturally sweet. It is oily, but surprisingly not bitter, and is very chewy as it cools.

General Comments
Overall, Sumatra is a good coffee with very strong value for the money. It is distinctive and enjoyable, but not overpowering and thus makes a good daily blend. It is quite suitable for any time of day, and is not too strong for after dinner. Its flavor, texture, and body change considerably as the beverage cools, becoming more mellow, slightly more slippery, although slightly less lively. As it cools, cocoa notes become more prevalent; while hot, citrus and hibiscus predominate and there is a brighter finish. Such a progression of qualities makes for an interesting cup that is best enjoyed without milk or sweetener, although the more experienced coffee drinker may disagree with the change in texture and flavor preferring something more lively throughout. It will stand up well to any type of brewing method, and is excellent for the drip machine.