November’s Trade Coffee (referral link) comes from Caffe Vita Roasting Company. Everything about these beans are different from the normal single origin, light to medium roast beans that I’ve been receiving from other roasters. This bag is clearly a blend so the origins of the beans are unknown. However, since this is a French roast, I think the origin of the beans are not as important as the roasting promise.

Upon opening the bag I get strong charcoal, ashy aroma reminiscent of beans that have gone through dark roasting. Making my latte, the first sip definitely reminds me of a dark roast with a charcoal, ashy flavor. After the initial flavor hit, I start tasting hints of berries and citrus which is overpowered by a milk chocolate after taste. Although the milk chocolate is pleasant, it really becomes the dominant flavor with every sip. I actually enjoy these beans. It’s a different aroma and flavor then previous lattes that I’ve made.