The current Black Cat, like those of the past year or so, is a sweet, predominantly orange flavored blend based on a mixing a Brazil and a Central. The difference is that while the past ones were solid base hits, this one is out of the park.

For reference, the coffees in this version are Sertao Santa Ynez, Minas Gerais Brazil; and Floresta Santa Teresa, Santa Clara Panama.

Ever had a fat espresso that's also orange marmalade, and that sparkles? Get yours while it's still around.

I had shots pulled at the Broadway store (big and muscular), at Coffee Studio (delicate and winey), at home (orangina), and a sequence including most of these by Chad, the Ipsento barista. So with reasonable gear and competence, this version should show very well.

High dose, low/medium temp, play with the brew ratios.

I totally agree. Love this BC.

another_jim wrote:... Get yours while it's still around ...

Thanks for the review & tip! I plan on picking up some tomorrow & will sample a few shots to get an idea of what to aim for.

just got some today, and will try this weekend

whats the size of the double youre pulling (oz or gs); the recommendation at the web site seemed large

I'm pulling 17 grams, very near the practical max for the basket I use.

The shot blonds slighter faster than most blends, so the shot weight is quite low 25 to 30 grams. Intelly's pulls are slow enough to flirt a little with the ristretto flavor, I like it a slightly faster flow, which keeps it sweeter and more bubbly

Will definitely grab some. I wasn't enamored of the iteration that came out (perhaps late fall or early winter?) but I've enjoyed it very much in the past. I did grab some of the most recent version of Honey Badger a couple months back (still have some in the freezer.) It was a bit pricey but pulled fantastic straight shots with it. Very impressive blend.

another_jim wrote:The current Black Cat, like those of the past year or so, is a sweet, predominantly orange flavored blend based on a mixing a Brazil and a Central. The difference is that while the past ones were solid base hits, this one is out of the park.

For reference, the coffees in this version are Sertao Santa Ynez, Minas Gerais Brazil; and Floresta Santa Teresa, Santa Clara Panama.

Ever had a fat espresso that's also orange marmalade, and that sparkles? Get yours while it's still around.

I had shots pulled at the Broadway store (big and muscular), at Coffee Studio (delicate and winey), at home (orangina), and a sequence including most of these by Chad, the Ipsento barista. So with reasonable gear and competence, this version should show very well.

High dose, low/medium temp, play with the brew ratios.

How does it compare to Black Cat of '04-'07? Or does it at all? (I know black cat changes with what quality beans are available / they get in on.) I get an occasional SO there that impresses me, but outside of that the Black Cat within the past few years and the honey badger are less than impressive to my palate. Not that my palate is earning any awards, but everyone has preferences .

What temp are you pulling that at to get the effervescence?

This is in the review from last year. The old Black Cat used to be all chocolate and berries, now it's orange candy. On this one the orange lingers for so long, it's like a breath freshener an hour after drinking the shot.

Considering all the talk about orange candy and berries the vid below bears a look (and a laugh at ourselves!).

Fool me once shame on you, fool me twice... Errr... You can't fool me AGAIN!