Vero

For me, Vero is the anchor in my coffee collection. Something you want to reach for when you just want a cup of good consistent, solid cup of coffee with approachable flavors that won't have you asking any questions. While notes are different for everyone, my notes for Vero surround a nose of vanilla wafer, honey and malt milk chocolate, a palate of heavily toasted rice, roasted barley and 90% cocoa.

We use an automated espresso machine, which makes it harder to control grind size precisely. My first few cups of Vero came out sour, and I almost wrote it off. But the sourness turned out to be a brew issue, not the coffee itself. Once I let more water run through the grounds, the flavor came together completely: rich, chocolatey, creamy, and bold without being harsh. If you're working with equipment that limits your grind control, try adjusting your water volume before giving up on it. That was the variable that worked for me. When it's dialed in, this is a really satisfying espresso. It's got the kind of depth and body you want, with a natural sweetness that doesn't need anything added. Glad I took the time to experiment.

My favorite, hands down. Love it as espresso and french press.