Here's a great idea - offer whole bean (dark roast) coffee, have it certified as Fair Trade and sell it at a very reasonable price! Oh and while we're at it - let's ensure it's a product of Canada too.Well, Van Houtte has managed to accomplish all of this with their whole bean coffee selections. I purchased my first bag at Metro here in Toronto for $6.99 (includes dollar off instant coupon on package). To put this in perspective, a similar Starbucks roast would cost roughly double this price and most likely not be Fair Trade certified.
For overall taste, this coffee is pretty decent. I purchased Colombian Dark Roast so this one is certainly full-bodied and I notice it lingers on the tongue and really provides a hardy total pallet mouth feel. Contrary to many coffee drinkers who like a lighter, punchier coffee in the morning (think Starbucks Breakfast Blend or Tim Hortons), I like a full-bodied coffee to wake me up. I bet this coffee would go great on its own after dinner or with a rich (chocolate?) dessert.
Van Houtte is an interesting company with a rich history. Presently, in Quebec they have about 70 retail locations, and are heavily involved with the coffee equipment business - think of that 'brew on demand' single cup coffee you've probably encountered in the office.
To be completely honest, I must say I was hesitant about this Van Houtte coffee. I was never a fan of their office building brew and avoided it at all costs! But this whole bean coffee offering has changed my opinion and I would certainly buy it again. I give this one 3.5 stars out of 5.
