Starbucks Espresso Roast

I find that Starbucks coffee, of all varieties, this one especially, however, tastes not of coffee but of furniture polish. Where is the subtle coffee taste, the nuttiness, the smoothness, and, most of all, the sumptuous smell? It's not there.

Starbucks is an emperor wearing no clothes when it comes to making coffee. Try any other high street chain for a better cup of coffee. Better yet though, try the non-chains and the organic shops (and Co-op) for proper Fair Trade coffee that doesn't taste of cleanser and plastic.

This so called espresso roast is supposed to be ground for espresso machines. Under my 17 Bar Gaggia, this ground produced no crema at all, only diluted coffee-water that more closely resembles drip coffee rather than espresso. What's more, this Starbucks coffee is actually more expensive than several real brands. Do yourself a favor a pick up a can of Lavazza - for $4 to $5 at major supermarkets, its a much better deal.

Starbucks espresso is not that special in a filter machine but something happens in the espresso machine to convert this ordinary coffee into a spectacular taste that is great for Americano, Capuccino and Latte.

Mmmmm.