Alright, coffee crew, this time we’re going bold with a dark roast—West Coast Trail from Fernwood Coffee. This isn’t your average morning pick-me-up; it’s a deep, smoky blend that feels like it belongs in the great outdoors. Whether you’re sipping it at home or imagining yourself hiking through a misty forest (even if the closest you’ve been to that is your local park), this coffee has you covered.
My mum brought me it back from a trip to visit my sister in Canada so this coffee will taste even better because it was free.
The Beans: A Blend Built for Adventure
The West Coast Trail blend is all about that classic, rich flavour you crave from a dark roast. Fernwood Coffee brings together carefully sourced beans to create a blend that captures the essence of the rugged Pacific Northwest. We’re talking bold, smoky notes with a touch of sweetness—perfect for those who love their coffee strong and straightforward.
The Tasting Notes: Smoky and Smooth
The first thing you’ll notice when brewing this blend is the aroma—think toasted nuts, dark chocolate, and a touch of molasses. It’s like the smell of a bonfire (minus the flags), and it fills the room with a sense of warmth. On the palate, it’s bold but smooth, with that dark chocolate richness balanced by a hint of sweetness. There’s a slight smokiness too, giving it that outdoorsy vibe—ideal for those mornings when you need something to wake you up and keep you going.
The Brew: Keeping It Classic
For a blend like this, I kept things simple—straight to the trusty drip brewer for that classic, no-fuss coffee experience. This dark roast isn’t about fancy brewing methods; it’s about keeping it strong, straightforward, and reliable. The drip brew brought out those rich flavours, creating a cup that’s as full-bodied as they come. No frills, just a solid, robust brew that feels like a hug in a mug.
Fernwood Coffee: Roasting with Passion
Fernwood Coffee isn’t just another roaster—they’re serious about their craft. Based out of Victoria, British Columbia, they’ve been serving up award-winning coffee since 2007, focusing on quality, sustainability, and community. They work directly with farmers to source the best beans, ensuring ethical practices and fair prices. Their commitment to excellence shows in every cup, and they’ve got a stack of awards to back it up. So, when you’re drinking Fernwood, you’re not just enjoying a good cup—you’re supporting a roaster that’s all about doing things the right way.
I drank this out of one of my most used coffee beakers designed for Dundalk’s amazing Mo Chara – created by Etaoin O’Reilly Ceramics.
The Verdict: A Brew for Dark Roast Fans
If you’re into bold, no-nonsense coffee that hits all the right notes, West Coast Trail is your new best mate. It’s the kind of coffee that makes you want to pull on a flannel shirt, lace up your boots (even if you’re only heading to the kitchen), and tackle the day head-on. With its smoky, chocolatey flavours, it’s the perfect brew for those who like their coffee strong and their mornings cozy.
Big shoutout to Fernwood Coffee for bringing the West Coast vibe to every cup, not that I have a clue what that is but it sounded good in my head. Whether you’re an outdoors enthusiast or just someone who likes their coffee to pack a punch, this blend has you covered. And if you’re like me, you’ll be pouring another cup before you know it. Cheers to the bold brews and the cozy mornings they bring!
Also look how I caught the sunlight in the photo below – sucha pro!
