French Kick - Bullet Proof Review

Here is the Brew household, we are big fans of the bold, smoky flavors of a good French roast. But we are also aware of how challenging it can be to accomplish balanced flavors in a French roast, which has made us critical. (Too many bad coffees will do that to any connoisseur.) But, with an open mind we brought home a bag of Bullet Proof’s French Kick. 

French Kick has a moderately active bloom and a surprisingly balanced aroma. The smoky notes (which are characteristic of French roast coffees) are more subdued and balanced by dark chocolate and nuttiness.

Those same well-balanced aroma notes are present in every sip of the delicious French Kick. We brewed it to our usual specs in the French press (French press for a French roast, of course): 50 g of grounds, 32 oz of 202℉ water, steep 4-5 minutes. When brewing a French roast, I especially love using water that is 202℉ rather than 200℉. Although it is only a 2° difference, it unlocks more of the nuanced flavors trapped in the bean, making it richer in flavor and more balanced.

On the palate, the smoke is still surprisingly subdued and instead of the characteristic forward dominance it lingers on the palate, leaving a dry finish and want of another sip. French Kick has strong dark chocolate bitterness smoothed by creamy hazelnut.

Barista Note: There is no denying that French Kick is a French roast, but it offers more balanced and sweet flavors to combat and dance with the smoky notes. Don’t let it cool too much or the smoky and acidic qualities dominate the coffee and can sour the deliciously smooth chocolate hazelnut flavors.

This bag is a touch more expensive at about $16.00 from our local grocery store. But if you are a fan of French roasts, a lover of chocolate and hazelnut flavors, or want to mix up your brewing routine, Bullet Proof’s French Kick is a great one to try.

Cheers,

Mrs. Brew