The Britnell Starbucks at Yonge and Bloor in Toronto introduced the Clover Brewing System and Starbucks Reserve Coffee on Thursday at a smashing coffee tasting event at their store.  The Clover Brewing System, which gives coffee a rich, deep taste, one cup at a time, uses a Vacuum-Press technology and is only available in one other location in Canada.  In addition to the machine, the Britnell location also introduced Starbucks Reserve.  These are limited release, fairtrade beans offered in select locations.  Currently, the location is offering several different varieties which sell between $14 and $21 for a half pound.  The coffees come from various regions across the world including Brazil, Nicaragua and El Salvador.

(l-r: The new Clover Brewing System; Pastries for coffee pairings; bottom: Package of Reserve Coffee)

Most interesting at the event was the coffee tasting.  Samples of the Reserve Coffee were served to attendees along with pastry pairings, with the coffee being served black.   Much like wine pairings with a meal, coffee pairings really bring out the tastes of both items.  And to do so, it is best to have it black – adding milk and sugar would just change the taste.  In addition to the Reserve Coffee tastings, the new flavoured VIA coffees were also available to try.  Though a little on the sweet side for many, the best flavour has GOT to be caramel, followed by mocha.  There was also a live jazz band.