It's tough to choose just one at Boyds Coffee. Photo: Greg Dawson Photography

From their dark and delicious French No. 6 to their chocolaty sweet Blend Caribe, their roasts are products of years of practice.

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My favorite of the tasting was their Rip City Coffee roast:

Boyds Coffee, 100% Organic Rip City Coffee
Portland, OR

Reviewed: February 2010
Overall Rating: 96 points

Aroma: 8
Acidity: 8
Body: 9
Flavor: 9
Aftertaste: 9
Roast: Medium

The 411: This roast is certified organic coffee and Rainforest Alliance Certified. Boyds Coffee is based in Portland, OR and was founded by Percival Dewe Boyd in the very early 1900’s. In fact, he first peddled his wares from a red, horse-drawn wagon he purchased for $5. With three Portland retail locations and its roots firmly set in Portland, it is no wonder why they offer a roast named Rip City Coffee.

Now, I must admit, I’m a big fan of full-bodied darker roasts. And even though I was reassured by old school veteran baristas Jayme Gantz and Meagan Turvey that I would be pleasantly surprised, I still had my doubts about how much flavor Rip City could pack.

To say the least, I was more than pleasantly surprised.

The Setup: Medium roast with intense flavors and very smooth finish.

The Delivery: There is no denying the medium-roast coffee has a flavor intensity that rivals most darker roasts, yet finishes softly and leaves you wanting more.

Boyds Rip City Coffee maybe the most underrated coffee in the city.

Grab a cup at one of their three Portland coffee shops:

- Pearl District: 404 NW 11th Ave; 503-226-2590 – Free Wi-Fi
- Cultural District (Eliot Tower): 1229 SW 10th Ave; 503-241-4226 – Free Wi-Fi
- Roastery Store: 19730 NE Sandy Blvd; 503-666-4561