GOURMET NOIR

I first started buying coffee from Algerian Coffee Stores in the early 1980's whilst working in the West End of London and have continued to do so by post since moving to Norfolk in 1989. throughout that time I have received only First Class attention. My monthly orders have always been despatched promptly and at a very competitive price. I have bought Gourmet Noir Beans as I ground them myself. I cannot envisage ever changing my supplier as long as the Store is in existence.

This is how it started. A friend sent me some to try and now I can't get enough. Well, I can, I try to limit it to 2 cups a day because more than that and life gets far too interesting to cope with. Also got my mum onto this as she was complaining her ageing taste buds made most coffee taste a bit wallow - she's a new woman now, hardly recognise her. Dark and powerful (the coffee, mum is grey and not quite so powerful as she once was). Not for those who like flowery stuff.

Moving from London to the Sussex coast six years ago, I worried that my monthly trip to Old Compton Street, leaving with a few more bags of delicious coffee, would mean ditching my favourite blends and possibly begin supermarket shopping! But no such horror! The Algerian Coffee Store's simple yet comprehensive website allows me to explore new blends, shop from my previous orders and expect delivery just a few days later. And the coffee quality is as good as ever.

This makes a lovely, thick, dark, unctuous espresso, with lots of crema.

I was in London describing a Greek coffee and a member of staff suggested mixing this with Gourmet Mulatte. One bag of each into a Kilner jar, a thorough shake and it is perfect for a Greek/Turkish/Cypriot coffee.