The pros: Trader Joe's New Mexico Pinon Coffee is flavored coffee without tasting artificial. This is one of the most distinct flavors of coffee I've ever tried.
The cons: This is sold only as pre-ground, so coffee connoisseurs might stick their nose up at this one.
The verdict: Coffee is so very personal. Preference is everything, so I'll do everything I can to describe this most unusual coffee. If you are a coffee drinker and like a solid medium roast, then you might be pleasantly surprised by this coffee. While not traditionally flavored, this coffee has one of the most distinct flavors to it. The flavor is spelled out in the name: Pinon, which is a pine nut, but not these type of Pine nuts. This is the New Mexican variety, so don't expect a traditionally recognizable flavor here.
When I first opened the can it had the aroma of both chocolate and vanilla. However, it is the chocolate aroma that is substantially stronger. When brewed it had a flavor that was all unique on its own. This has the subtle flavor of an almost spiked drink. Yes, it tastes of a mild alcohol (which in my mind isn't a terrible way to start your day. It is after all 5 o'clock somewhere). However, while it tastes of alcohol, there isn't any present. There is also a nice earthiness here as well. It does make a nice medium brew.
For $7.99 for a one pound of coffee that comes pre-ground. That might be because this product is one of the new items sold at Trader Joe's that isn't Trader Joe's. In fact, their website is here. Overall, while I did not love the fact it was pre-ground, it wasn't bad. While I would prefer whole bean coffee this had a nice distinct flavor all its own. Something that might be worth a try if you are there.
Here is the visual run down of what you get if you buy this product:
The can of Trader Joe's New Mexico Pinon Coffee:
The description:
Would I buy this again? Yes, while I wouldn't drink Trader Joe's New Mexico Pinon Coffee all the time, it is a welcome change to my regular brew. I've added this to my rotation of coffees.
Want to see more items I've reviewed from Trader Joe's? Click on Thoughts & Reviews of Trader Joe's for a searchable list.
Did you try it? Let me know what you think in the comments section!
skullwoman says
I'm not a fan of flavored coffee, but I think my better half would LOVE this. Adding it to the Saturday TJs shopping list.
becomebetty says
Let me know how you or your better half enjoy it. Thanks for stopping by and have a very happy and healthy 2018!
Chicago Tom says
I used to LOVE this coffee, but we stopped when we could no longer buy whole bean. Recently it was explained to me that the reason why TJ no longer carries the whole bean version was due to allergy concerns for folks who use TJs grinders.
becomebetty says
Hey Chicago Tom! That makes so much sense. Thanks so much for sharing that.
Uncle Duke says
Sadly, TJ no longer carries this brand. Coincidentially, we visited the manufacturer earlier this year, and they had temporarily halted production (which has since re-started) because of some issues with their pinon sourcing. The manufacturer also discontinued the 16 oz can. I don't know if either of these things had anything to do with TJ discontinuing the coffee.
becomebetty says
Hey Uncle Duke! Thanks so much for taking the time to stop by are share this with everyone! That's a really interesting connection between those two items. I do miss this coffee on shelves. Thanks so much for the update I (and everyone else who stops by) will find your feedback valuable.
Jackie L Parshall says
This is my go to coffee. It's been my favorite for years. Thank goodness it's in production again just not at TJs. The only other coffee I purchase from them is the wonderful winter blend.
becomebetty says
Hey Jackie! Thanks for adding this. The winter blend is pretty good too. Thanks for taking the time out of your day to stop by and share you thoughts on this.