I have to say that I am surprised how well this coffee tastes. I am not really a fan of Starbucks because I feel that their beans are overroasted and taste burnt. I can only tolerate the drinks if they are sweetened (the real coffee flavor is basically masked). Normally I grind my own beans at home and brew using an Aeropress. I have purchased instant coffees from Starbucks before, but felt they tasted too burnt and bitter (like in the store).

With that said, I wasn't sure what to expect with this coffee since people have different taste preferences. I just tried my first cup and it was actually pretty good! I wouldn't compare it to freshly ground coffee that is brewed using an Aeropress, drip style or coffee press. However, if someone served you a cup blind folded I don't think you could tell that this was instant coffee and you wouldn't have any complaints. It isn't bland, but I wouldn't say it has any particular depth of flavor profile.

I purchased this brand because of the high reviews and after researching recommended instant coffee brands. I prefer to make my own coffee at home and fill a tumbler for on the go drinking. However, sometimes I drink all of my coffee or don't have time to brew in the mornings. Being on a student budget, I thought this might be a good financial alternative when I need that extra afternoon pick me up out of the house. All I need is hot water!

If possible I would recommend purchasing a container instead of the individual packets because it is likely cheaper. However, if you want an extra stash in your backpack, or purse for on the go, then this brand is great!

It should also be mentioned that there is no mention what regions the beans are specifically sourced from. The box only states the beans are Arabica, "...from the best high-altitude regions, gently roasted, cultivated and refined, make it into our packages. To us, perfection means that we only procure ecologically cultivated coffees in their countries of origin from small-scale farmers at Fairtrade conditions."

Great coffee carried on a backpacking trip, very close to brewed coffee. The only brand I think is any better is Voila, but it is at least 5 times more expensive. I now keep this around the camper when I don't feel like brewing a whole pot of coffee. I was very pleasantly surprised by this instant coffee, which I generally find not worth drinking

As far as instant coffee, this is my go-to at work. A little milder than most brewed coffee, but gets the job done.

This stuff is delicious. I'm a coffee snob and buy my coffee from a local roaster so it's as fresh as possible. This is really good for when I don't want to make a whole pot and just want one cup of coffee.

Very smooth. I suggest 8oz of water but I like my coffee strong. I travel internationally at least 2-4 weeks a year and have used Starbucks via. I'll consider changing now