Super sweet with a bright, wine like tone. I used the pour over method to brew it. Very very little sweetener needed to for this one. Black is best - for me at least. I looked it up and most of the notes say things about fruit and wine. I do get the wine and fruit, but when I open the bag,the first thing I think of is rich, dark chocolate. Maybe gourmet raspberry chocolates. This is a very good coffee and I'm going to miss it when I run out later this week.
My first taste was brighter and more citrus than I expected. It filled my mouth and I got a hint of spice and rich deep red fruits. I don't know what fruits exactly, but I would say red. Dark and rich and juicy with flavor. Red might not be a flavor like purple, but maybe it should be. There was a lively acidity to it that didn't overpower and didn't approach bitterness and harshness. As the cup cooled a bit I got a warm hominess. My husband came in late and got a slightly cool cup. I asked him what he thought and he said. "I don't know if this makes sense, but even though it's not super warm temperature wise I would still describe it as warm." I knew what he meant. It's a warm comforting drink. Madcap describes it as being a great coffee to cozy up to next to the fire and I think that's spot on.
I am down to half a bag and that won't last long with the coffee hounds in this house, but I'll enjoy it while I can. I will order next years Lake Effect for sure and I'm already planning to try the Spring Fling blend.