Hawaiian Kona Dark from RocketFuel Coffee Review

by Mike on January 26, 2010 in Coffee Reviews

The Drink: Hawaiian Kona Dark from RocketFuel Coffee
Type: Whole Bean Single Origin
Overall Rating: 3.75 Out Of 5 Coffee Cups

I rated Rocketfuel Coffee’s Hawaiian Kona one of the best coffees I reviewed in 2009. It converted from a skeptic of the hype surrounding the rare coffee from Hawaii, to understanding why it’s worth the expensive price tag.

Last week, Lisa from Rocketfuel Coffee sent me the dark version of their Kona. I’m not always a fan of dark roasted coffees, but I couldn’t wait to give it a shot.

The difference was obvious as soon as I opened the gold Hawaiian Kona Dark bag. The beans were a darker color and the smell was slightly bitter with hints of chocolate and charcoal.

A few minutes later, a light floral aroma floated out of my cup once it was done brewing. It had just dashes of chocolate and something sweet-sugar like.

The taste difference was like day and night. Of course, this coffee tasted a lot darker. The taste was nutty, with the darkness mixed in. I picked up on some honey and a bit of cinnamon. Just around the edges was a hint of charcoal flavor.

Overall, it was a great coffee with a well above average 3.75 rating. However, I did like the lighter roast better. I gave that one a 4.0 rating. That doesn’t mean that everyone will like it better, I’m just more of a medium-light roast kind of guy and I think it brought out more of the flavor. But then again that’s just me, if you’re a fan of dark roasts, I think you’re going to love this coffee.

Either version of the Kona, doesn’t come cheap at $20 for half a pound, it may not be an everyday kind of coffee, but compared to other Kona prices, it seems reasonable and worth giving it a shot.

Rocketfuel Coffee also sent me a bag of their new Rocketfuel XXX that now contains Yirgacheffee beans. I’ll be trying that and reviewing that very soon.

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Tagged as: Rocketfuel Coffee

Article by Mike Crimmins

Mike Crimmins is the highly caffeinated blogger behind Daily Shot Of Coffee. Besides drinking way too much coffee, he's obsessed with the Yankees and getting dirty on his mountain bike.

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{ 10 comments… read them below or add one }

gservo January 26, 2010 at 7:19 pm

wow that coffee sounds really good, ive always had a special place in my heart for Kona

Mike January 26, 2010 at 8:28 pm: It is a special coffee. Either version is definitely amazing.

Reply

BaristaOnDutY January 26, 2010 at 9:12 pm

I’m About The Same Mike As Far As Dark Coffees Are Concerned They All Have Their Place, I’m Sure I’d Love A Medium Kona I Had One Last Year For My Birthday It Was Dark Roasted. I Didn’t Care For It Much As A Drip Coffee, But Walah I Tried It As An Espresso And It Was Really Nice. I Only Say That To Say Each Coffee, Just As It’s Coffee Lover Will Have Their Own Preferred Method Of Brew. IMO Based On The Konas I Have The Med Roasted I Loved As Reg Drip, And The Darker Ones Made Nice Espressos. Everyone Palate Is Different. Great Review Mike, I Read This One Twice Looking For Traces Of Cement. C|_|

Mike January 27, 2010 at 10:15 pm: LOL Traces of cement. Some day I’ll use that in a review.

I like the idea of trying it as an espresso, I might have to do that very soon.

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Geri January 27, 2010 at 5:17 am

Good Wednesday everyone!
Sitting here enjoying the reviews and comments this morning. Finished downloading from Java.com it seems even taking care of business involves the suggestion of “coffee”. What a great way to start the day.

Received a free sample of JarBee their “breakfast blend” will give it a try this morning. Anxious for that first sip.

Being the mother on board thought I’d suggest everyone take some time to thoroughly clean that travel coffee container you drag around with you each day! If you don’t, you are missing the true taste of that fresh coffee you are drinking.

Try mixing white vinegar and baking soda together it will foam up and bubble it cuts the oils and grime in just about anything you want to clean. Then wash it in mild soapy hot water and rinse well. Now you have a nice clean coffee container minus the grime. Can’t help but want to take care of you young ones!
Enjoy your brews!

Mike January 27, 2010 at 10:17 pm: Geri – I couldn’t agree with you more. I used to never clean my coffee makers, now I clean them often and on a regular basis. I can really taste the difference. I use vinegar usually, but never tried the baking soda too. So I’ll try that next time.

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Rose January 27, 2010 at 10:37 am

Thanks for the review Mike. I too received my free sample of Seattle Roast from Jarbee. Thank you and thanks to Jarbee for making me and my mailbox happy.

Geri, I have to confess…I’ve actually used “organic” bong cleaner to get the crud out of my coffee pot. And no I don’t smoke that stuff.
Rose´s last blog ..Tattoo My Forehead

Geri January 27, 2010 at 5:23 pm

Cool Rose!
We must stay clean and green!

First thing after logging off this morning started the Jarbee “breakfast blend” and waited for the first taste patiently. I was not disappointed at all. It had a nice creamy silky feeling to it and a nutty note plus it was fresh tasting not like others. I must say I’m inclined to order some. My husband asks me now each morning “What are we drinking today?”. Before I joined Mike’s blog we only used Walmart’s Great Value french roast. I drank what he liked but now I’m changing things around. LOL Nice way to start the new year don’t you think? So happy with these new coffee experiences.

Mike January 27, 2010 at 10:21 pm: Geri – I’m glad you like the JarBee coffee. I think that’s one of the coffees that I’ll be reviewing soon.

And that’s one of the nicest comments that I’ve ever gotten. I’m so glad you’re getting out and trying new coffees! That’s a great way to start the new year!

Reply

Mike January 27, 2010 at 10:20 pm