Venezuela
by Gobino
Impact
The concept of ‘overly designed’ may be unheard of in Italy, for many good reasons: Ferrari & Prada to name just a couple of them. Stunning visual coup (absolutely awesome looking piece) but a blend that adds up to less than the sum of its parts.
Appearance 4.6 / 5
| Color: | beautiful mink brown |
| Surface: | imperfect; pocked w/ bubbles |
| Temper: | semi-sheen |
| Snap: | dry & coarse |
Aroma 7.1 / 10
supple leather on the inhale cut by red flags
Mouthfeel 11.3 / 15
| Texture: | medium bodied & a bit lumpy w/out being seized (nibs working their way thru texture) |
| Melt: | viscous |
Flavor 40.2 / 50
fruit-flowers characteristic of Venzy beans but here w/ some stalky traits; chewing helps release flavors, especially the late cherry blush toward the back; otherwise, allowing an elapsed melt accentuates overroasting & produces mostly coffee tones; quick, slightly astringent finish
Quality 15.4 / 20
Venezuelan beans stand up better to Nacional nibs than Gobino’s Java version. Still, their addition, plus an extra-firm roast, pulls the flavor down & wipes out sweeter accents. Better to leave well enough alone.