Review: Anniversary Blend – A Limited Edition Coffee Worth Celebrating

Limited edition coffees often carry an air of excitement, and Kiss the Hippo Coffee's Anniversary Blend is no exception. Released to mark a milestone, this blend is crafted from carefully selected single-origin beans, promising a cup that's both celebratory and memorable. But does it live up to the hype? In this review, we'll dive into the flavor notes, brewing recommendations, and overall experience to help you decide if this limited edition is worth adding to your collection.

As a specialty coffee roastery based in London, Kiss the Hippo is known for its meticulous sourcing and roasting. The Anniversary Blend combines beans from two standout origins: Colombia, Papayo and Rwanda, Buki. Both are celebrated for their distinct profiles—Papayo offers bright, fruity acidity, while Buki brings deep, chocolatey sweetness. The result is a balanced yet complex cup that evolves as it cools, making it a delight for both seasoned enthusiasts and curious newcomers.

Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes

Upon first sip, the Anniversary Blend greets you with a burst of ripe red fruit—think cherry and cranberry—courtesy of the Colombia, Papayo component. This brightness is quickly followed by a velvety body and notes of dark chocolate and caramel, thanks to the Rwanda, Buki. The finish is clean with a hint of brown sugar, leaving a pleasant sweetness on the palate. As the coffee cools, the acidity softens, and the chocolate notes become more pronounced, revealing layers of complexity.

This blend is medium-roasted, which strikes a perfect balance between preserving the origin characteristics and achieving a smooth, approachable cup. It's versatile enough to please those who prefer fruity or chocolatey profiles, making it an excellent choice for sharing with friends or savoring solo. If you enjoy tasting coffees that tell a story, this blend does exactly that—celebrating the roastery's journey through flavor.

• Aroma: Sweet, with notes of stone fruit and cocoa.
• Acidity: Bright but balanced, reminiscent of red berries.
• Body: Medium to full, with a creamy mouthfeel.
• Aftertaste: Long, sweet, with a hint of toffee.

Brewing Recommendations

To get the most out of this limited edition, consider your brewing method. For pour-over, use a medium-fine grind and water just off the boil (around 93°C). Start with a 1:16 coffee-to-water ratio, and pour in slow, circular motions. This method highlights the fruity notes and bright acidity, making it ideal for those who love a clean, vibrant cup. If you prefer a fuller body, try an Aeropress or French press—both will emphasize the chocolate and caramel undertones.

For espresso lovers, the Anniversary Blend works surprisingly well. Pull a double shot with a slightly finer grind than usual, aiming for a 1:2 ratio in about 25-30 seconds. The result is a syrupy espresso with a rich crema and a balanced flavor that's not overly acidic. Pair it with milk for a latte or cappuccino, and you'll get a sweet, nutty drink that's perfect for a morning treat. Experiment with your water temperature and grind size to find your sweet spot.

• Pour-over: 93°C water, medium-fine grind, 1:16 ratio.
• French press: Coarse grind, steep 4 minutes, press slowly.
• Espresso: Fine grind, 18g in, 36g out, 27 seconds.

Is It Worth the Hype?

Limited edition coffees often come with a higher price tag, but the Anniversary Blend justifies its cost through quality and uniqueness. The combination of Colombia, Papayo and Rwanda, Buki is not only delicious but also showcases the roastery's skill in blending. Unlike some limited releases that feel gimmicky, this one delivers a genuinely memorable drinking experience. Whether you're a collector of rare coffees or just looking for a special treat, this blend is a solid investment.

One potential downside is availability—once it's gone, it's gone. If you're on the fence, consider ordering a bag soon. It also makes an excellent gift for coffee lovers, especially when paired with a subscription like the Gift - Donna Blend Coffee Subscription Every Week, 3 Months, which offers a consistent supply of another great blend. Overall, the Anniversary Blend is a celebration in a cup, and we highly recommend it.

• Pros: Complex flavor, versatile brewing, excellent for gifting.
• Cons: Limited availability, slightly higher price.

The Anniversary Blend from Kiss the Hippo Coffee is a limited edition that truly lives up to its name. With its well-balanced flavor profile, brewing flexibility, and celebratory nature, it's a coffee worth seeking out. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to specialty coffee, this blend offers a delightful experience that captures the essence of what makes great coffee special. Don't miss your chance to try it before it's gone.