Finca Matalapa, El Salvador.

Kyle G. used it in his USBC routine. I decided to try it when I saw it on the Clover list earlier this morning. It is a very gentle coffee with the mellow flavor and a silky body. I didn’t have food with it, but I think it would go well with Angel Food Cake or even a light sandwich.


To read more about Finca Matalapa click here

Ameno by Era

Yes, it is an old track but I still listen to it from time to time. DJ Quicksilver ’s version is pretty good, too.

Ameno lyrics - Era lyrics

Ameno Video - Era Music Videos

Music Videos by VideoCure

What Do You Believe In?

Originally uploaded by SCAA Blog.

It is great to take a stand for what you believe in. However, I've noticed some cheerleaders jumped on the anti-latte art wagon were also once gung ho about latte art. They are lame and they are sheep!

The New, 2008 USBC Champion.

Originally uploaded by SCAA Blog.

Kyle Glanville!

As If You Were There.

If you got time to kill over the weekend, you can watch the US Barista Competition LIVE, and be sure to check with the schedule.

2008 USBC Competitor: Jay Caragay

The outspoken, energetic, and very likable Jay.

2008 USBC Competitor: Kyle Glanville

Kyle is one cool dude. His answer to what he would like the judges to remember his performance at 5:50 mark is simply awesome.

Cool Shirt.

Cool Shirt.
Originally uploaded by Spinnaker007.

I have been eyeing this shirt for some times, but I kept delaying to own one because I didn’t need another T-shirt. What changed my mind was its cool design, and I got to show my support to the coffee shops I like. There are a few more on my list, and their coffee I like to try.

Any woo, I ordered a doppio with the shirt, and it was pulled by Jesse at the Intelligentsia Millennium Park Store. The dark chocolate crema with a syrupy body. The temp was perfect to sip without fearing of burning the mouth. The flavor of Black Cat was intense and scrumptious. It was a goodness of the goodness. Since that shot was so good, I asked Jesse if he would compete in the barista competition in his future, his answer was no. I understood his response, because it takes a certain type of the personality to be in front of a large crowd and to be scrutinized by the judges.

Talking about the barista competition, the US Barista Competition is this coming weekend in Minneapolis Minnesota.

Hang on!

Affordable Luxury?

SBUX pre-announces today that it will most likely to miss its 2Q earnings because of the weak consumer spending. It also lowered the guidance for its full year earnings as well. The Wall Street doesn’t like the news and drive the stock prices down for another $1.91 to $15.94 in the after hour trading.

The other players in this coffee chain biz aren’t doing much better either since the beginning of 08, however, I know my local favorite is doing great. If you make good coffee, they will come!