Trade Coffee is the ultimate matchmaker for coffee lovers. You'll meet some of the most amazing coffee the U.S. has to offer. Each delivery includes small-batch coffee based on your tastes and preferences. After trying out your new coffee you can provide feedback and rate your order. Trade's in-house experts will then use this information to fine-tune all future deliveries. If your first bag isn't up to par, Trade will deliver a replacement for free.
What I love the most about Trade Coffee is its level of customization. You'll take an initial quiz that collects information on your preferences and brewing methods. Choose normal coffee or decaf, select your roast level and grind type, and add your preferred tasting notes. And don't worry, if you struggle with decision fatigue you can sign up for a preset subscription instead.
This review is of the Custom Subscription by Trade Coffee. I was matched with Extra-Roasty Dark Roasts based on my taste profile. Alternatively, you can subscribe to their Best Sellers Subscription.
This box was sent to us at no cost for review. (Check out our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we review boxes).
Meet this Month's Coffee: Terra by Common Voice
After having an amazing first experience with Trade Coffee, I decided to stick with their "Extra-Roasty Dark Roasts" queue. This month I was matched to Terra by Common Voice. This coffee is distinguished by its subtle dark chocolate sweetness and extra-roasted flavor. Sounds perfect for someone who loves dark roasts!
The coffee originates from Nicaragua, Mexico but its roaster is Common Voice Coffee Co. of Nashville, TN. Common Voice prides itself on making a difference for the Earth, paying an additional five percent above the cost of green coffee and investing back into the land where its coffee is grown. The company was created by the team at Good Citizen Coffee which has a mission of sharing specialty coffee with as many people as possible.
Let's Get to Brewing...
I decided to use the pour-over maker again after it made such amazing coffee last time. I haven't returned to the percolator since making the switch, and don't plan to unless I need to brew a ton of coffee spur of the moment.
Like last time, the whole process took less than ten minutes. This included heating the water, measuring out the coffee, pouring in the water slowly, and then allowing the coffee to brew.
It seemed like this coffee came out a bit darker and slightly heavier than the previous batch. It also had an earthier scent to it—which makes sense considering its name.
Time for a Taste Test!
As its name implies, Terra tasted quite earthy! It's the kind of coffee that hits you from the get-go with its roastiness. Despite being on the bolder side, I could still taste the subtle hints of dark chocolate and nuts throughout.
While I appreciated this month's coffee, I have to admit that Juggernaut by PERC from last month was a bit easier to savor. Juggernaut paired very well with milk, whereas Terra was better on its own black, and especially over some ice. Nevertheless, I still enjoyed this dark roast and felt it was perfect for a quick pick-me-up in the morning.
The Verdict
So far Trade Coffee has hit the mark both times! While I preferred Juggernaut by PERC last month, Terra still made for a solid cup of coffee. Terra is the type of coffee you make when you need a quick boost and don't have much time to linger in a sea of flavors. I'm interested to see what Trade Coffee will choose for me next...I might switch it up for fun!
Side Note—Is Trade Coffee Good for the Price?
The average price for a standard bag of freshly roasted coffee in the United States is roughly $17. While Trade Coffee costs $19.95 per bag, when you pay for a month-to-month subscription the price drops to $15.75(+shipping) per bag. If you prepay for three bags of coffee, it's like getting a bag for free. This brings down the price to $13.30 per bag, and you'll unlock free shipping.
If you're just trying out Trade Coffee on a one-time basis, the price is slightly higher than average. However, if you're willing to commit to a few months at a time, you'll save quite a bit of money in the long run. In my opinion, Trade Coffee is absolutely worth committing to! Especially considering you're gaining access to the best independent roasters throughout the country.
Writer's Note: You can also purchase coffee equipment from Trade Coffee as add-ons. They offer equipment like a Chemex, goose-neck kettle, and filters to help make pour-over coffee.
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