On an overcast morning that begged for something warming and bright, I reached for “Photosynthesis” by Dark Arts Coffee. Packaged boldly with a surreal label by Freddie Houman and notes of pink raspberry sherbet, cherry, and vanilla, this one promised flavour with flair. The colours, the name, and that wild label? This coffee had my attention before I even broke the seal.
I am a sucker for a fancy cool looking pack of coffee and the attention to design detail with this Dark Arts Coffee is amazing. Also I think this was my first time trying a Mexican Single Origin Coffee, so that’s new for me.
Brew Method
I brewed this using a Chemex at a 1:16 ratio. It was a quiet morning and I poured it into a mug my wife (Frankie B Art) had made — the perfect mix of ritual and romance. The Chemex brought out the clarity I hoped for, highlighting the natural processing and letting the bright notes shine, maybe just not as much as the tasting notes suggested but still good.
Taste Profile
As promised on the label, you get a slight bit of pink raspberry sherbet up front but maybe that’s because I was looking at the tasting card. It was tangy, playful, and mouthwatering. That gives way to a more rounded sweetness from the cherry, finishing with a soft vanilla creaminess that smooths the edges. It’s fruity but structured, not a sugar bomb. I think the cherry was the biggest flavour for me, like a black forest gateaux.
Maybe with more control in an Aeropress I would get more of those vibrant notes?
About this Dark Arts Coffee
- Origin: Oaxaca, Mexico
- Varietals: Bourbon, Typica
- Process: Natural
- Altitude: 1,200 – 1,300 masl
Sourced from Mexico’s Oaxaca region, this coffee reflects the fruity punch and complexity you’d expect from a natural process, grown at moderate altitudes.
About Dark Arts Coffee
Founded in Hackney, London, Dark Arts Coffee are known for their rebellious edge and full-throttle approach to coffee. Their roasting style celebrates bold flavours, characterful beans, and unapologetic branding. They’ve built a cult following for good reason, this isn’t just coffee, it’s an experience. An art exhibition. Expect attitude.
Final Thoughts on Dark Arts
“Photosynthesis” pretty much lives up to its name but I may have been sucked into the brand and how much cooler this coffee makes me feel just by drinking it. It made that grey morning feel warmer and gave me just the kick I needed. Bonus points if you can enjoy it from a mug someone you love made for you.
The mug art was inspired by Redacted Whiskey’s second release Blackwater in which the amazing Kathi Burke did the artwork.
Quick Info on Photosynthesis by Dark Arts Coffee
- Roaster: Dark Arts Coffee, Hackney, London
- Coffee Name: Photosynthesis
- Origin: Mexico, Oaxaca
- Process: Natural
- Tasting Notes: Pink raspberry sherbet, cherry, vanilla
- Best Brewed With: Chemex or Aeropress
- Ideal Morning: Cloudy, quiet or before an IDLES concert
Check out more coffee reviews in the Collins Coffee Corner