Kauai Coffee, Coconut Carmel Crunch

There is a lot going on with Kauai Coffee’s coconut caramel crunch. Looking at the package, a drinker may notice that it is only ten percent Hawaiian coffee. On the side of the package, under ingredients, it says the remainder is Arabica coffee. The package is also clear about the coffee being artificially flavored. The origin and flavor of this coffee become nearly moot when drinkers read the suggested serving advice, also on the side of the package. Adding 6 ounces of water and cream to taste is something I avoided when I made my 8-ounce cup black. Another oddity on the side package is “Distributed by Massimo Zanetti Beverage USA Suffolk, VA USA.” What geographical rounds did this coffee make to get to my pour-over basket? I am not a fan of artificial coconut flavor, but I wanted to try something exotic this time.

On the plus side: this coffee has a creamy smoothness that seems catalyzed by its caramel flavor. The caramel scent and flavor of this coffee are its most positive features. Where the “crunch” in “caramel crunch” comes from, I don’t know. There is no crunch, but there is a creamy smoothness that occupies your whole mouth. Unsweetened, I had to make an effort to taste the coconut. While the coconut may mix well with this coffee’s unusual flavor, I believe it to be the drink’s most negative contributor. Some may find the coconut desirable, but after sweetening the coffee, I find the coconut to be stronger and last longer than I would like. While the smooth creaminess of this coffee’s overall flavor is a treat that will attract many people, I find it reminds me of a smooth sweet juice that is tolerable for a short time but is less desirable daily, making it novel rather than necessary.

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