Well… for as many strange looks that I had this week when offering a very rare coffee for $8 per 12oz cup, we sure sold out fast. We purchased what we thought would last a week and put it on the brew bar menu Thursday (10/4) morning, but it was sold out by early Friday afternoon. So much for that!
It seems that we could have sold an equal amount over the weekend as people have continued to come in and ask for the Esmeralda. I had half a cup and split the other half with our staff and must say that I was not disappointed at all- wonderful stuff with very nice citrus and floral notes. We dialed in the Clover coffee machine to the exact specs (including a special water temperature) used by Intelligentsia at their roasting works when they unveiled the coffee at their 10/1 preview party. Customers were not disappointed either- one person even bought two cups.
Having said that, we will not be able to secure any more of the $8/cup La Esmeralda until Intelli has sold through their 100lbs of the auction lot. If any remains at that time we will get it again.
So now we can turn our attention to the Auction Lot Esmeralda Especial- yes, for real this time. This is the same coffee judged best in the world and set the record price of $130/lb this past summer (our cost is $198 roasted). This will not be an inexpensive cup at $22/12oz, but based on the interest so far this will not last.
The real deal goes on the menu this Thursday 10/11.
I bought a quarter pound bag at the intelligentsia coffee shop yesterday in Chicago.$56.65 with tax. How did it taste? I dont know. I sent it to my brother in law in NYC as a birthday gift. Im sure he will let me know what he thinks after he brews his first cup.