When I read the name of this coffee, I’ll admit I was a bit wary.  I typically drink darker roasts and avoid city roasts.  I think it’s the acidity level in a city roast that I usually shy away from.  Despite this, I went ahead and gave Lil’ Bit Lighter a shot.  I’m not entirely sure this is a city roast, but it’s name implies that it is marketed at those who enjoy city roasts.

My cup was prepared with a french press and I must say I was pleasantly surprised.  The aroma is earthy with prominent chocolate notes.  At first taste, the chocolate is definitely what stands out in this coffee, but perhaps even more impressive is how well balanced the acidity is.  Up front, the coffee carries a very full body that coats the mouth, but as you swallow, the acidity creates a nutty dryness in the back of the palate.  The dryness brings out strong walnut and pecan components that will be very noticeable in each successive drink.  The natural sweetness of this coffee is also notable and somewhat surprising.

This blend is an enjoyable compromise between the more bold flavors of a dark roast and the acidic finish of a city roast.  I would recommend this coffee as a good transitional tool for someone looking to explore the bolder end of light coffees or the more acidic end of dark coffees.  I can certainly say I learned something about myself with this cup – acidity can be a very enjoyable trait when balanced in the right ways.

Buy Intelligentsia Coffee Lil’ Bit Lighter from NeedCaffeine.com