Thursday, March 19, 2009

Via: Starbucks Instant Coffee

Starbucks Coffee 3-servings Medium Starbucks VIA™ Ready Brew Colombia Coffee, Colombia, Instant
As Chicago (along with Seattle) is one of the test markets I got a hold of a sample of VIA, Starbucks new brand of instant granulated coffee. I would rate it is solid: Meh.

Via is certainly better than the instant coffee that was made back in the days where they would grind up anything that even looked like a coffee bean. It is solidly drinkable and a good option if you, well, don't have any other options. I would rate it about the same as basic cheap drip coffee.

Via has a pleasant but one-note taste with that slightly burnt edge that I associate with Starbucks. So if you like the taste of Starbucks coffee, I guess VIA has that taste. I dare say I will stick with buying whatever filter-ground coffee is on sale at Peapod.

See also:
Brew review: Starbucks’ VIA
Just add water: Can granules ever pass the taste test?
"From the Comfy Chair": Want to make Juan happy? Clean the bathroom!

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Thanks for the heads up, I'll have to try it when opportunity comes. I usually don't drink instant coffee but some of my friends like it. And my wife uses it in some liqueur recipes.

Anonymous said...

I'll have to look for this. I don't brew much coffee because I don't drink enough to justify a whole pot, and I hate regular instant coffee. This might be better, though.

Anonymous said...

Wow... didn't even know they were coming out with an instant... the coffee freak that I am... I will probably never try it!