I recently brewed a cup of Kicking Horse Coffee's Kick Ass Dark Roast, and the bold, smoky aroma filled my kitchen before I even took the first sip. The flavor was intense, with hints of chocolate malt and molasses, but what surprised me most was how smooth it finished—no bitterness, just a rich, earthy aftertaste. It's clear this coffee is crafted with care, but there's more to unpack about its ethical sourcing and versatility across brewing methods. If you're curious about what makes this dark roast stand out, there's plenty to explore beyond that first satisfying sip.
Key Takeaways
- Bold, smoky flavor with chocolate malt, molasses, and licorice notes, offering a rich, earthy finish and smooth, non-bitter texture.
- Certified Organic, Fairtrade, and Kosher, ensuring ethical sourcing, sustainable practices, and high-quality, shade-grown Arabica beans.
- Versatile brewing compatibility with French press, drip, pour-over, and Moka Pot, enhancing smoky sweetness and chocolate undertones.
- High-altitude Rocky Mountain roasting creates a robust dark roast profile with no bitterness, ideal for daily coffee rituals.
- Praised for its intense aroma, smooth finish, and consistent quality, though some note potential bitterness if over-extracted.
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Why does Kicking Horse Coffee's Kick Ass Dark Roast stand out in a sea of dark roasts? It's the bold, smoky aroma with hints of sweet vanilla and dark chocolate that grabs me first. The flavor profile is rich—think chocolate malt, molasses, and a touch of licorice, all wrapped in an earthy finish. I brew it in a French press to let those deep notes shine, but it works just as well in a drip or pour-over. For storage, I keep it in an airtight container away from light to preserve its freshness. Pair it with dark chocolate or a cinnamon-spiced pastry to enhance its natural sweetness. This roast's complexity and smooth finish make it a standout every time.
Features and Benefits
I love that Kicking Horse Kick Ass is made with Certified Organic Arabica beans, ensuring a clean, pure flavor without any additives. The Fairtrade and Kosher certifications give me confidence that it's ethically sourced, while the shade-grown, high-elevation beans bring out deep, complex notes like chocolate malt and molasses. Roasted in the Rocky Mountains, it's bold yet smooth, perfect for my French Press or pour-over setup.
Certified Organic Arabica Coffee
With its roots in high-altitude shade-grown farms, Kicking Horse Coffee's Certified Organic Arabica beans deliver a bold, complex flavor that's as clean as it is rich. The organic farming practices guarantee no synthetic pesticides or chemicals touch these beans, preserving their natural integrity. Grown through sustainable coffee cultivation, these beans thrive under the canopy of diverse ecosystems, enhancing their earthy, chocolate malt, and molasses notes. The dark roast profile amplifies the smoky sweetness and licorice undertones, making it perfect for French Press or Drip methods. I love how the medium-fine grind extracts a smooth, full-bodied cup without bitterness. Knowing it's organic and sustainably sourced adds depth to every sip, connecting me to the land and the hands that cultivated it. It's coffee with a conscience and a kick.
Fairtrade and Kosher Certified Coffee
Beyond its organic roots, Kicking Horse Coffee's Fairtrade and Kosher certifications add layers of integrity to every cup. The Fairtrade benefits guarantee farmers receive fair wages, fostering sustainable practices that protect both people and the planet. This commitment shines through in the bold, smoky aroma and rich chocolate malt notes of Kick Ass Dark Roast. Kosher standards assure meticulous preparation, aligning with strict dietary guidelines without compromising flavor. I brew this medium-fine grind in my French Press, extracting its earthy finish and molasses undertones perfectly. The dark roast profile, with hints of licorice and sweet vanilla, feels indulgent yet ethically grounded. Every sip reminds me that quality coffee can also be a force for good.
Shade-Grown at Higher Elevations
Shade-grown at higher elevations, Kicking Horse Coffee's Kick Ass Dark Roast delivers a complexity that's hard to beat. The elevation benefits are undeniable—coffee grown at altitude develops slower, allowing the beans to absorb more nutrients and develop richer, deeper flavors. The altitude impact is evident in every sip, with notes of chocolate malt, molasses, and a hint of licorice shining through. The earthy finish is smooth, not bitter, a reflection of the careful cultivation process. I recommend brewing this dark roast in a French press to fully extract its bold, smoky aroma and sweet vanilla undertones. The medium-fine grind works beautifully for drip or pour-over methods too, ensuring you get the most out of these meticulously grown beans.
Rocky Mountain Roasted Coffee
Roasted in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Kicking Horse Coffee's Kick Ass Dark Roast captures the essence of its rugged, high-altitude origins. The beans are carefully roasted using sustainable roasting practices, ensuring every cup reflects the purity of its rocky mountain origins. I love how the bold, smoky aroma pairs with sweet vanilla and dark chocolate notes, creating a rich, earthy finish. It's perfect for French Press or Pour Over, bringing out the chocolate malt and molasses flavors. The dark roast profile is intense but smooth, with no bitterness, making it a standout. Knowing it's roasted with care for the environment adds to the experience, making each sip feel like a tribute to the mountains and the farmers who grow it.
Product Quality
The Kick Ass Dark Roast from Kicking Horse Coffee delivers a bold, complex flavor that's hard to overlook. Its flavor consistency is remarkable, with deep notes of chocolate malt, molasses, and a hint of licorice that shine through every cup. The aroma intensity is equally impressive—smoky, with sweet vanilla and dark chocolate undertones that fill the room as soon as you brew it. I find it works best with a French press or pour-over, which enhances its earthy finish and smooth texture. The dark roast profile is robust but never bitter, making it a standout for those who crave depth without harshness. It's clear this coffee is crafted with care, offering a rich, satisfying experience every time.
What It's Used For
I use Kicking Horse Kick Ass Dark Roast for my daily coffee ritual, brewing it in a French press to highlight its bold chocolate malt and molasses notes. Its medium-fine grind works perfectly for drip or pour-over methods, bringing out the smoky sweetness and earthy finish. I've also found it pairs beautifully with a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to enhance its rich, dark profile.
Brewing Methods Compatibility
With its medium fine grind, Kicking Horse Coffee's Kick Ass Dark Roast is versatile enough to shine across multiple brewing methods, from French Press to Moka Pot. I've found its grind consistency perfect for extracting bold, smoky flavors with a hint of dark chocolate and molasses. For French Press, it delivers a rich, full-bodied cup, while in a drip machine, it balances earthy notes with a smooth finish. When I use it in a Moka Pot, the licorice undertones really pop, creating a robust espresso-like brew. The medium fine grind guarantees even extraction, making it adaptable to various brewing techniques without losing its signature depth. Whether you prefer a slow pour-over or a quick drip, this roast's grind consistency and bold profile make it a reliable choice.
Flavor Enhancement Techniques
Kicking Horse Coffee's Kick Ass Dark Roast doesn't just shine on its own—it's a canvas for flavor experimentation. I love playing with spice pairing to enhance its bold, smoky profile. A pinch of cinnamon or cardamom complements its chocolate malt and licorice notes beautifully, adding warmth without overpowering. Brewing tweaks also make a difference; adjusting the grind size slightly finer for a French Press intensifies the earthy finish, while a coarser grind in a Moka Pot highlights the molasses sweetness. I've found that experimenting with water temperature—keeping it just below boiling—preserves the rich, smooth finish without bitterness. This dark roast's versatility lets me explore new dimensions, making each cup a unique experience. It's perfect for those who crave boldness but enjoy a touch of creativity.
Daily Coffee Ritual Use
For my daily coffee ritual, Kick Ass Dark Roast is my go-to for its bold, smoky richness and smooth finish. It's the perfect start to my morning routine, delivering a robust caffeine boost that wakes me up without any bitterness. I brew it in my French press to highlight its deep chocolate malt and molasses notes, with a hint of licorice on the earthy finish. The dark roast profile, with its smoky aroma and sweet vanilla undertones, feels indulgent yet balanced. I love how it pairs with breakfast, enhancing the flavors of my meal while keeping me energized. Whether I'm rushing out the door or savoring a slow morning, this coffee's consistent quality makes it an essential part of my day.
Product Specifications
The Kicking Horse Coffee Kick Ass Dark Roast is a 10-ounce ground coffee that delivers a bold, rich experience with every cup. The medium fine coffee grind size makes it versatile for French Press, Drip, Pour Over, and Moka Pot brewing methods. The packaging details are straightforward yet thoughtful, with a resealable bag to preserve freshness. Here's a quick breakdown of its key features:
| Feature | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Roast Level | Dark Roast | Smoky, intense, with a smooth finish |
| Flavor Profile | Chocolate malt, molasses, licorice | Earthy undertones, no bitterness |
| Brewing Methods | French Press, Drip, Pour Over, Moka | Medium fine grind for versatility |
This coffee's deep, complex flavors shine through, making it a standout for dark roast lovers.
Who Needs This
If you're someone who craves a bold, smoky cup of coffee with a smooth finish, this Kick Ass Dark Roast is calling your name. Coffee enthusiasts who love deep, complex flavors will appreciate its tasting notes of chocolate malt, molasses, and licorice, rounded out by an earthy finish. Dark roast lovers will find its rich, smoky aroma with hints of sweet vanilla and dark chocolate irresistible. I recommend brewing it in a French press or pour-over to fully extract its robust profile. Its medium-fine grind works well for drip or Moka pot methods too. If you're after a high-quality, organic coffee that delivers a punch without bitterness, this is your go-to. It's perfect for those who value sustainability and bold, unapologetic flavor.
Pros
Kicking Horse Coffee's Kick Ass Dark Roast delivers exactly what it promises: a bold, smoky cup with a smooth finish that's hard to beat. The rich flavor is packed with notes of chocolate malt, molasses, and a hint of licorice, making every sip deeply satisfying. It's perfect for those who crave a dark roast without the bitterness. Here's why I love it:
- Rich flavor profile: Chocolate malt and earthy undertones shine through.
- Smooth finish: No harsh bitterness, just a velvety aftertaste.
- Versatile brewing: Works great with French Press, Drip, or Pour Over.
- Ethical sourcing: Certified Organic and Fairtrade, supporting sustainable farming.
- Consistent quality: Every cup delivers the same bold, smoky depth.
This coffee is a must-try for anyone who values a robust yet balanced brew.
Cons
While I love the bold, smoky depth of Kick Ass Dark Roast, it's not without its drawbacks. The dark roast profile, while rich, can sometimes lean into a bitter aftertaste, especially if over-extracted. I've also noticed the grind can be inconsistent, which affects brewing precision—whether I'm using a French press or pour-over. Here's a quick breakdown of the cons:
- Bitter aftertaste: Over-brewing amplifies the bitterness, masking the chocolate malt and molasses notes.
- Inconsistent grind: Some batches are too coarse or fine, disrupting the brewing process.
- Intensity: The boldness might overwhelm those who prefer lighter roasts.
- Limited versatility: Best suited for dark roast lovers, not ideal for milder palates.
- Availability: Frequently out of stock, making it hard to rely on consistently.
Despite these issues, it's still a standout dark roast for its flavor complexity.
What Customers Are Saying
Customers rave about the bold, smoky depth of Kicking Horse Coffee's Kick Ass Dark Roast, often praising its rich chocolate malt and molasses notes that shine through in every cup. I've noticed many mention how the earthy finish and licorice undertones balance the sweetness, making it a standout for flavor preferences. Brewing it in a French press or pour-over seems to amplify its complexity, and the medium-fine grind works perfectly for these methods. Customer satisfaction is high, with many calling it their go-to daily coffee, even over big-name brands. Some note the smoky aroma and smooth finish, while others appreciate the lack of bitterness. It's clear this roast delivers on its promise of bold, organic quality, earning loyal fans worldwide.
Overall Value
When it comes to bold, high-quality coffee, the Kick Ass Dark Roast delivers exceptional value for its price point. For a 10-ounce bag of certified organic, Fairtrade, and 100% Arabica coffee, it's a budget-friendly option compared to premium brands like Starbucks or Dunkin'. The rich, smoky aroma with notes of dark chocolate and molasses makes every cup feel indulgent, while the smooth, earthy finish guarantees no bitterness. Its medium-fine grind works well with French Press, Drip, and Pour Over methods, offering versatility without extra cost. In a cost comparison, it's a steal for those seeking a dark roast with depth and complexity. If you're looking for a daily brew that balances quality and affordability, this roast is a standout choice.
Tips and Tricks For Best Results
To get the most out of Kicking Horse Kick Ass Dark Roast, I recommend starting with freshly ground beans if you have a grinder, as this enhances the chocolate malt and molasses notes. For a balanced extraction, aim for a brewing temperature between 195°F and 205°F—too hot, and you risk over-extracting the earthy, smoky notes. Grind consistency is key; for drip or pour-over, use a medium-fine grind to highlight the licorice and dark chocolate undertones. If you're using a French press, go slightly coarser to avoid sediment while maintaining the bold, rich profile. This dark roast thrives with a longer brew time, so don't rush it. Experiment with water-to-coffee ratios to find your sweet spot, but I find 1:16 works well to balance the intensity without losing the smooth finish.
Conclusion
After savoring the bold, smoky richness of Kicking Horse Kick Ass Dark Roast, it's clear this coffee stands out for its depth and complexity. The flavor balance is exceptional, with notes of chocolate malt, molasses, and a hint of licorice, all wrapped in a smooth, earthy finish. I love brewing it in a French press to highlight its robust profile, though it shines in drip and pour-over methods too. The dark roast is intense but never bitter, a reflection of its high-quality, ethically sourced Arabica beans. Knowing it's organic, Fairtrade, and sustainably grown adds to the satisfaction of every sip. If you're after a coffee that delivers both bold flavor and ethical sourcing, Kick Ass Dark Roast is a standout choice.
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