Blog by: Sheila Murray Photos by: Linked Ring

I’m delighted to tell you about my experience with JBC Coffee Roasters, a company with a philosophy of "unparalleled quality, a human story, and sustainability.” That philosophy drew me to this coffee roaster and the coffee tasting blew me away. I don’t want to give away too much - make a cup of coffee and settle in to learn just how well JBC and Wacaco paired together!

La Piragua Pink Bourbon 

First impressions

Before even noticing the aroma, we studied the intricate details of the coffee bag. I loved how each of the coffees we received had their own distinct and thoughtfully designed bag. 

Finally we opened the bag of beans, which released a strong and delicious aroma into the kitchen. We agreed that there was a lovely smell of chocolate or syrupy candy. James said there were hints of caramel and I noticed undertones of something bright and fruity like raspberry. 

We decided to brew this one as an espresso. We used the Exagrind to grind the beans and the  Picopresso to brew. We prepared two crema-topped espressos and each took a sip.

James commented on how it always pulls a reliable shot and how tamping it down correctly really makes a big difference. There is a helpful video here if you are using your Picopresso for the first time!

Tasting notes

“Wow” I said after my first sip, in surprise. “It’s so bright and light and it does in fact have that syrupy mouthfeel I thought I could sense through the smell.” I also noticed notes of grapefruit or something citrusy.

James thought the espresso tasted like lemon, grapefruit, and tart cherry. He also commented on the lovely creamy mouthfeel that rounded out each sip.

We agreed that the more we drank the espresso the more we noticed about it and the more we enjoyed it!

The reveal

This roast has notes of valencia orange, jammy pink and red fruits, and meyer lemon. Kickstart a sunny morning with this roast and you’ll basically guarantee a joyous day and productive day!

Las Margaritas Sudan Rume

First impressions

One thing to note about this coffee is that it is a limited edition! It may not even be available by the time this review is published but it gives us a clear idea of the exceptional quality we can expect from any JBC limited edition coffee!

 “Hmm,” I said as I considered. I had opened the small bag of coffee and was taking my time smelling the freshly roasted beans. “This is floral, bright, and quite welcoming.”

James said that he sensed toasted nuts, cinnamon, vanilla, and floral notes.

As we were getting quite different experiences upon smelling, we were so curious to see what it would taste like!

Our contact at JBC recommended trying this one as a filtered coffee but said it also makes a fantastic espresso - you can’t go wrong! We opted to use the Cuppamoka to brew two cups of Las Margaritas Sudan Rume. 

Tasting notes

I was blown away by the bouquet of tasting notes that were complementing each other so well. I noticed dark chocolate, citrus, vanilla, and maybe something herby and grounding. It was hard to pinpoint the exact tasting notes but it was so delicious, I could have drank it all day.

“I’m getting some citrus, vanilla, and lemon,” said James.

This coffee was unlike anything I had ever tasted before and it was mesmerizing! We definitely took our time drinking this one and I look forward to trying it as an espresso as well!

The reveal

Said best by JBC: “It is stunning and unique with tasting notes of tropical fruit, rosemary, blood orange, sweet basil, hibiscus, and mint. An exceptional and wildly unique coffee experience.” 

Yabitu Koba Ethiopia

First impressions

After taking a moment to appreciate the creative coffee bag, I opened it up and shook it to release the smell. 

James commented on how the aroma was akin to honey and sweet fruit. I noted that the smell was very strong, bright, and I would even say “cheerful.” There were hints of nutmeg, punchy fruit, flowers, and citrus. 

We thought this one would pair well with the Cuppamoka or Pipamoka, and we used the  Pipamoka this time around.I was looking forward to experiencing how the vacuum extraction method would bring out the floral and citrus notes we were already sensing.

Tasting notes

James said he was pleasantly surprised to taste a floral jasmine tea. He commented on the bright but overall subtle nature of this coffee, which made for an introspective sipping experience in the best way.

“It’s so light and smooth,” I said, “I am getting those tea notes as well as fruit and honey. This is one I’d love to share with friends, as it’s another fun one!” 

The reveal

This coffee has notes of lemon lime soda, white florals, kiwi, honey. Another unique and delicious roast! We recommend enjoying this on a climbing, skiing, or biking adventure with friends.