Hey coffee lover, have you tried Kofee? It’s a new UK coffee company using high quality specialty beans to create an exceptionally balanced traditional Italian-style espresso.
I recently received a sample of their beans and could not be more pleased with the results from brewing them for my morning cup.
The mastermind behind Kofee is Marco Arrigo. If that name rings a bell for you, then you know this man is a coffee and flavour genius. Whenever I start spouting off about coffee-related things or feeling smug about a smart purchase of beans or related gear, it’s probably because I learned something from Marco. For those of you not in the know – Marco served as UK Head of Quality for Italian coffee giant, illycaffè, for a couple of decades. He was one of the founders and remains Director of Soho’s best bars, Bar Termini.
So, when he founded on a mission to create a new “beautifully balanced” Italian-style espresso using most delicate higher quality specialty beans I was certainly keen for a sample when offered.
Kofee has a range of four single origins beans as well as a medium roast espresso blend – all 100% arabica beans. Word is more will be added soon. I’ve tried two: the Banko Michicha – Guji from southern Ethiopia and the Kayanza from Burundi. The Banko Michicha has a fruity and floral profile with a caramel finish. The Kayanza is a bit more juicy with a mildly nutty profile with subtle but distinct cherry flavour. Even with already high exceptions, they each wowed my palate.
Rather than make espresso drinks, I brewed these beans using the pour-over method. Nonetheless, I was pleased with the results. Maybe the Banko Michicha was the more balanced result of the two. However, the first sip of the Kayanza was especially impressive. I think I actually said ‘wow’ out loud after my initial taste of it.
A 250g bag of each costs £14, which I reckon is good value for such high quality beans (cupping scores in the high 80s).
See the full range of beans and more, including tips on how to brew and listings for barista training courses, kofee.com.
