Intelligentsia — Agua Preta

Country of Origin: Brazil
Appellation/Region: Carmo De Minas
Elevation: 1250-1400 M
Estate/Farm: Santa Ines
Grower : Francisco Isidor Dias Pereira
Certification: Direct Trade
Varietal: Yellow Bourbon
Roast Date: 12/29/09
Rating & Roast Notes: Solid mild chocolate, vanilla and pecan make for a comforting cup. A smooth steady body and soft acidity accompany lingering notes of dry spice and roasted hazelnut.

I went to the Intelligentsia in Venice after visiting Nick Smalley in the hospital. We had a great time–staff was again very week + they would not make us a chemex pot (I am going to follow up on this–maybe they only do it on certain days).

We started with Organic Ethiopia Yirgacheffe espresso shots which were awesome–described as fruity, I was blown away by the finish–clean, clear, and sharp. Probably the best espresso shot I have had at the Venice Intelligentsia.

We had Cup of Excellence El Salvador Finca Malacara from the clover.
I was totally stocked on this coffee. Very clear notes, amazing body. This was the best cup of coffee that I have ever had–just amazing during every sip. Complexity and finish were strengths, but overall just an amazing cup. Talk and reading during the 15 minutes I spent with this cup.

Next we did a Black Cat shot that was good, but pulled to long or something so there was a lot of fines in the coffee. A rather bitter finish. Not the best black cat I have had.

We got a cup to go, but I am not sure what we ordered. It was good, but coffee in a paper cup is never that taste.