Review #136: RAKO Coffee Roasters

Name of Roaster: RAKO Coffee Roasters

Location of Roaster (City, State, Country): Lorton, VA

Name of Roast: Sidamo Kercha

Type of Roast (Light, Medium, Dark): Light/Medium Origin of Beans: Sibu Kercha Washing Station, Sidamo, Ethiopia Price: $16 (12 oz.) Brewing Method (Drip, Chemex, AeroPress, etc.): Chemex Time Between Purchase and Brewing (Ballpark is fine): Ten days Aroma: Opening the bag, we noted chocolate Rice Krispies, warm hot cocoa, soft brownie batter, and a touch of light brown sugar. The scents brightened after grinding, with notes of baking spices, dark chocolate bark, chocolate cookie, lime, and poached pear. On the pour, light brown sugar, raw cane sugar, rich caramel, nougat, and soft honeyed apple showed.

Flavor Profile: The sip arrived with a low-palate entry that immediately split between the tip of the tongue and middle-roof of the mouth. Caramel, toasted almond, toffee, and cocoa nib appeared at the outset, and then a softer, more viscous mouthfeel showed. Behind the aforementioned initial notes came muddled orange, baked apple, guava, and a touch of kiwi. The sides received hints of lime and orange peel. The sip ended with a clean, but slightly heavy finish, with lingering aromatics of honey and warm baked brioche.

Overall Impression (What did you think of it? Anything else we should know?): We stumbled across this roaster deep in a warehousing area, but upon entering the shop, we encountered a modern, airy vibe. The coffee was elevated, if not overly showy, and paired well with multiple breakfast items, including frosted cinnamon raisin rolls and savory items like bacon and eggs. We didn't taste the strawberry they listed in their flavor notes, but the coffee was a delight, regardless.

Final Score (1-10, with 10 being the best cup of coffee in your life): 8.0

Where to Buy: RAKO Coffee Roasters