Starbucks Milano Luna vs Sole: Our Taste Test
Coffee lovers, get ready to experience a bold new flavor journey! Starbucks recently launched an exciting new line of coffee called Milano Duetto, featuring two contrasting Italian-inspired blends - Milano Luna and Milano Sole. As self-proclaimed coffee connoisseurs, we were eager to get our hands on these new offerings and compare the tasting notes side-by-side. After multiple cups of quality testing (hey, it's a tough job!), we're ready to brew up the full review. Read on to understand what makes these coffees completely distinct yet equally delicious!
An Espresso Shot Of History: The Story Behind Milano Duetto
Before diving into the nitty-gritty tasting details, let's look back at what inspired these unique blends. Starbucks built its empire on delivering quality coffee experiences inspired by flavors from around the world. Italy has always held a special place in the company's origins, from the original Starbucks logo to the culture of espresso bars.
As a tribute to Italian coffee culture, Starbucks created the Milano Duetto line. The name itself evokes the romantic spirit of Italy's fashion capital, Milano. "Duetto" refers to the delightful pairing of contrasting coffees. With its meticulous roasting and blending process, Starbucks aimed to capture the authentic flavor that Italians cherish in a perfect cup.
The result is two distinct varietals - the robust Milano Luna using beans from Latin America, and the mellow Milano Sole sourced from Africa and Asia. The Moon and Sun artwork on the packaging symbolizes the push-and-pull between darkness and light. Read on as we illuminate the unique differences between Milano Luna and Sole!
Milano Luna: Embracing The Dark Side
Let's start with Milano Luna, representing the deep, dark soul of Italian roast. One whiff of these beans immediately reveals the intense flavor about to unfold. The aroma alone drew us in with notes of caramelized sugar and dried fruit. As we peered closer at the oily, obsidian-colored beans, we could tell this was no lightweight roast.
Brewing the grounds released further scents of bittersweet cocoa and toasted nuts. The first sip delivered an assertive punch of flavor that bold coffee drinkers crave. There were layers of spice, molasses, and pipe tobacco distinguishing Milano Luna from your average morning Joe.
The finish also lingered with subtle notes of brown sugar and baking spices. We found ourselves going back for a second and third taste, finding new depths of flavor each time. It's a world-class symphony of aromatics tailor-made for the darkest of Italian roasts.
Milano Sole: A Softer Morning Awakening
Moving to the lighter side of the spectrum, Milano Sole evokes a gentler start to your day. One look at the beans immediately sets it apart - a warm, cocoa brown compared to Milano Luna's inky blackness. Grinding unveils nuttier, fruitier notes, reminiscent of almond croissants and apricot preserves.
The aroma enchanted our senses before we even took a sip. Notes of brown sugar, apricot, and cocoa delivered a softer impression compared to Milano Luna's intense overture. Even while black, the first taste moved lighter across the palate with layered flavors of nuts, stone fruit, and milk chocolate. The finish carried a pleasing hazelnut creaminess that left us satisfied, yet refreshed.
In essence, Milano Sole captures subtler flavors and comforting warmth in contrast to its bolder sister blend. It's ideal for those who prefer a more delicate flavor profile in the morning.
Comparing The Duetto: Which Will You Love More?
Now for the exciting part - how do Milano Luna and Sole stack up when tasted side-by-side? As self-professed coffee snobs, we had to put them through a rigorous testing methodology. Multiple pour-overs, espresso shots, and French presses later, here's our take:
Body: Luna has a much fuller, viscous mouthfeel compared to Sole's juicier brightness.
Acidity: Sole has a delicate tanginess, while Luna balances its bolder notes with low acidity.
Flavor: Luna layers on intense spice, fruit, and smoke notes. Sole charms with friendly flavors of nuts, citrus, and brown sugar.
Finish: Both have remarkable aftertastes - Luna with its tobacco and molasses, Sole with its soothing hazelnut.
Which did we prefer? It truly depends on the mood and time of day. For an invigorating start, Luna's boldness can't be beat. When craving something soothing yet nuanced, Sole hits the spot. Starbucks perfectly captured the versatility of Italian roasted coffee in these complementary blends.
Brew Up The Best Cup: Tips And Techniques
Now that your taste buds are surely tingling, let's cover how to coax the most flavor out of Milano Luna and Sole. Here are our tips for crafting an impeccable cup:
- Use High-Quality Tools: A good grinder and brewer make all the difference. Invest in burr grinders and equipment like French press or pour-over.
- Focus on Freshness: Buy roasted beans instead of pre-ground. Use within 2 weeks of the roast date for optimal freshness.
- Perfect Water Temperature: Brew Luna and Sole with water between 195°F - 205°F. This extracts the best balance of flavors.
- Experiment With Brew Times: Longer high-heat steeping boosts Luna's intensity. Sole shines with a lighter touch.
- Try Different Brew Methods: French press accentuates mouthfeel, pour-over highlights acidity and aromatics.
- Use Proper Tasting Tools: Evaluate flavors in a functional cup and neutral palette cleanser like bread or crackers.
Mastering the variables of water quality, grind size, time, and temperature is integral to an exceptional at-home brew. Part of the fun with these coffees is exploring different combinations to complement their unique characteristics. Treat your tastebuds to a flight tasting of Luna and Sole prepared various ways - it will be an eye-opening, and of course mouth-watering, adventure!
Sip Into The Moonlight And Sunrise
That wraps up our hands-on, aroma-filled tasting experience with Starbucks' latest heavenly brews. Their new Milano Duetto line perfectly encapsulates Italian coffee culture in two distinct varietals. We hope our tasting notes have helped illuminate what makes Milano Luna's darkness and Milano Sole's light equally beguiling. There are so many adventures in brewing and savoring these blends to come. As Starbucks says - "life is brewtiful!"
