Jacobs Kronung Tassimo T-Discs

Jacobs Krönung For Tassimo

Jacobs Krönung For Tassimo

As a traditional European coffee staple, Jacobs Coffee is one of the most renowned brands within Germany and its surrounding countries. Due to its popularity, the Jacobs Krönung (also known as Jacobs Monarch) T-Discs for Tassimo Coffeemakers had a large reputation to uphold. Originating in the late 1800’s, Jacobs in Europe is as synonymous with coffee as Starbucks is in the United States. 

The Jacobs Kronung T-Disc for the Tassimo embodies all that European coffee is known for. An appealing aroma and a bold though not overwhelming flavor like what can be expected from say a French or Swiss roasted bean. It is also not as oily as one of its darker roasted counterparts. 

Its flavor is rich and full bodied. Smooth on the tongue, Jacobs Kronung is rather low in acidity although the brightness is appropriate. While not as effervescent as I had anticipated by its fruity aroma, the two did in fact correspond without disappointing. Flavor nuances of the brew were complex and welcoming. Nuances of apricot and honey, melded with the slightest hints of chocolate, and finishing with an almost hickory wood flavor are characteristic of Jacobs Kronung. This coffee is expertly brewed and roasted and unlike some of the more popular American coffee brands, is not bitter or burnt tasting despite its bold taste. It is for this reason that Jacobs Krönung can be easily enjoyed black as well as with cream and/or your choice of sweetening agent.

The light to medium roasting profile of Jacobs Kronung It is also suitable as an all day blend and is as brilliant when paired with desserts as it is with meals. Also, as the roasting profile is on the lighter end of the spectrum, it contains more caffeine then a darker roast. However, most coffee drinkers are under the impression that the darker the coffee is roasted, that the cup contains more caffeine. This is untrue, as the roasting process actually extracts caffeine from the coffee bean. This having been said, the longer the bean is roasted, the more caffeine is lost. This fact makes Jacobs Kronung a perfect medley of flavor, and pick me up.

Jacobs Krönung T-Disc

Jacobs Krönung

In addition to the fine European flavor profile featured by the Jacobs Kronung blend, it is also brewed in the traditional European measurement of 6 oz. As Americans often opt for a larger cup (especially in the morning) this factor may make for a turn off to this particular T-Disc. With its slightly smaller brew size, Jacobs Kronung T-Discs for the Tassimo may not be suitable for those that prefer a larger cup of coffee. However, one can modify this by adding slightly more water, or even a creamer T-Disc to bring it an 8 oz cup without affecting the taste tremendously. This is also a great option for those individuals choosing a slightly less bold cup.

Jacobs Krönung T-Discs for Tassimo Coffeemakers are available in both 16 and 32 disc packages, and can be purchased from fine retailers everywhere both in stores, as well as online.

Nabob Cappuccino – Tassimo Review

Nabob Cappuccino For Tassimo

Nabob Cappuccino

The Nabob brand is certainly a world renowned brand, and most connoisseurs would probably agree that this is a great cappuccino brew. It’s bold, rich, and has hints of caramel.  Our three taste testers unanimously agreed that it kicked the pants off Starbucks’ Cappuccino offering.  Starbucks has a good product, but the Nabob brew kicks butt.

The Nabob Cappuccino disc has a rich aroma with an extremely smooth finish.  The hint of caramel flavor really adds texture to this hot beverage. For many coffee drinkers who like a straight black cup of joe, this is a wonderful cappuccino to try out in your Tassimo coffee maker. Nabob has turned coffee drinkers into home barristas with the push of a button. Any Italian will tell you that the key to a great cappuccino is temperature.  Although there were some gripes about the cost of Nabob Cappuccino, it was the clear winner here.

You might also like to try adding flavored coffee creamers or liquid syrups in your favorite flavors if you do not want a plain cappuccino. You might have to experiment a few times to “get it right” according to your taste buds, but it will be well worth it for the convenience of being able to make it in your home for a fraction of the cost of visiting a coffee shop every morning. Just remember that when you start adding sugar and other sweeteners, you will significantly up the calorie count on these drinks from their regular 80 calories per serving.

The milk disc is much better than the ones included with other brands of cappuccino discs, but if you really can’t stand to have any taste of preservatives in your beverages, toss it and use your preferred brand of fresh milk.

These cappuccinos look stunning in glass mugs if you are consuming them at home. The foam looks very attractive sitting atop the espresso mixture. Made according to the packaging, you can expect to fill an eight ounce mug to the brim. And if you like your cappuccino a little less strong, just add more water. Then you can get about 14 ounces before sacrificing some flavor. So if you are making this to take to work in the morning, make sure you use a larger sized travel mug.

The Tassimo Cappuccino is a great choice for those who love Nabob coffee, and cappuccino, but do not have a store near them or find Starbucks to be cost prohibitive. These T-Discs are also a great thing to have around if you like an occasional treat, or some variety.

Nabob Cappuccino T-Discs For Tasisimo

Nabob Cappuccino T-Discs

You really can’t beat the price of these little cups that make you a full sized cup of steaming hot cappuccino. At first glance, the price of the package seems a bit steep. Over a buck a piece? But when you think of how you willingly pay upwards of $4 for just a small cappuccino in a Starbucks store, less than two bucks a cup for a shockingly similar home brew isn’t too bad. Depending on retailer sales, you should always be able to find these for less than two dollars a serving.

For ease of cleaning up your machine, it’s a good idea to brew the milk first and then the espresso. Then you will be sure that all the milk residue is gone and not worry about your machine getting a sour smell or your next cup of coffee tasting that way.

Lastly, if you are more of a cold cappuccino drinker, just make it up and pour half of the mixture over a cup of ice. Stir, let sit a few minutes to chill and enjoy a refreshing cappuccino.

Kenko Medium Roast

What did we do in the days before the single-cup brewer? Not long ago, I was measuring and pouring and fumbling while still half-asleep. I am simply not civil until I have had my first cup, and the T-discs make that happen so much quicker. Not being one who enjoys an overly strong cup, I thought I would give the Tassimo Kenko Medium Roast a go. It does not disappoint, with its balanced flavor and well-rounded character. While it was strong enough to wake up my taste buds, and everything else on the way down, it is definitely not an overpowering cup.

When I drink coffee, especially my first cup in the morning, I like to experience rather than just drink it. It’s just something I have done for as long as I can remember, almost like a spiritual experience. To rush that first cup would be positively sacrilegious, not to mention it would ruin my whole day! Starting with the rich aroma as the cup makes its way to my lips, continuing on to the smooth mouth-feel of the first sip, I was pleased with the Tassimo Kenko Medium Roast from my very first taste. The flavor was bright, with medium body yet not too bold. I would classify it as rather on the mild side, in fact. For me that is the perfect strength, as I don’t do well with strong cups or espressos. This could be compared to a breakfast blend, which is usually my speed when selecting coffee.

On the downside, it had a slight acidity – a bit more than what I am used to, but definitely no bitter aftertaste. However, after a few mornings I got used to that and now barely notice it. What stands out is the rich, balanced character and slight fruitiness, with a nice, clean finish.

Now I’m no tree-hugger, but I do what I can to be as green as possible. It helps that Kenco beans are sourced from Rainforerst Alliance Certified Farms, which translated simply means that they help the coffee farming communities by promoting the well-being of their workers, as well as protecting the environment. That certainly adds sweetness to the cup!

I only wish the disc to cup ratio were a little higher, as I enjoy a larger cup. Especially in the morning, I do need that boost to get me going and the one disc doesn’t quite make it. Brewing another cup is not the end of the world, though, as a few extra seconds isn’t exactly a good excuse for missing the train. I can live with that versus the whole ordeal of preparing an entire pot and waiting an eternity for it to brew! Have I mentioned that mornings aren’t my most efficient time of day?

All in all, the Tassimo Kenko Medium Roast is a winner in my book. Bold enough for me, balanced, pleasant flavor and smoothness in each cup. Who knew you could get that much satisfaction from such a little disc?

Descaler for Tassimo?

Descaler For Tassimo

Descaler For Tassimo

I absolutely love the Tassimo Brewer I bought three months ago, and have truly enjoyed all the offerings that are available, like the Chai Tea Latte, and the different coffees that are easily accessible in the Toronto harbourfront.

My problem is that a red warning light I hadn’t previously noticed came on today.  After I looked at the manufacturer’s guide, I discovered that the light meant the Tassimo needed to be descaled.  I immediately went to the store where I purchased the Tassimo Brewer, and discovered that they don’t carry the descaling powder that is needed to keep the machine clean.  I checked around on the internet and discovered that I’m not alone.  Others have had this problem, and you can’t use lemon juice or vinegar to clean this coffee machine.

The Tassimo comes with the t-disc needed for the cleaning, but not the powder.  The hunt is on for this elusive ingredient.  I discovered that it is very difficult to find in any store – even Canadian Tire and Future Shop don’t carry it, although they do sell the brewers.  This is not very convenient at all, and Tassimo/Bosch might consider requiring retailers that sell the brewers to provide the Tassimo descaler as well.  One of the reasons I purchased the coffee brewer was because I could buy the coffee and tea, and all the other offerings right down the street.  I don’t really want to wait for an online delivery, but maybe that’s my only option.

Has anyone been able to find Tassimo descaling powder in Toronto?

Twinings Chai Tea Latte Review

Twinnings Chai Tea Dispensors

Twinnings Chai Tea Dispensors

With its Chai Tea Latte, Tassimo aims to bring the warm comfort and exotic, far-away taste of a spicy coffee-shop favorite to your home countertop. The drink is billed as a sweet, exotic Mix of black tea, honey, and spices – and it lives up to its promise.

Tassimo’s take on the Chai Tea Latte has everything you love about the classic hot drink. The aroma of a savory, steaming drink is the first impression you will get of the Twinings Chai Tea Latte disc as it brews; it will remind you of an oven-fresh dessert. At first piping-hot sip, the flavor is bold, with a spicy seasoned twist that reminds your lips of pumpkin pie. The drink succeeds at appealing to the taste for sweet and spicy at once. In the combination, the sweetness wins over the spiced flavoring, overpowering it to an extent. Tassimo has chosen a Chai recipe that includes Splenda instead of sugar. This alters the taste to an ever-so-slight discerning tongue, and for those sensitive to the taste of sugar substitutes it may detract from the flavor. The up side to this is that this very flavorful, rich latte drink is offered at only 90 calories. The tea itself is very smooth and bold enough not to be muted by the strong latte creamer component. The finished result is flavorful enough that even the choosiest of do-it-yourself baristas won’t need to add any additional dashes of flavoring thanks to a mix of cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and ginger.
A tip before you sip: Stir the beverage briefly before tasting, it helps to disperse the flavor and ensure evenly-seasoned sips

Twinnings Chai Tea T-Disc

Twinnings Chai Tea T-Disc

The Tassimo tea-brewing system is a two-part process which includes the black tea disc cartridge and an additional cartridge for the flavorful latte mixture. If you already own a Tassimo system or you are a latte lover who just wants to get their spoon wet, this modern method of enjoying a classic tea is worth trying.

Tassimo’s tea at home selection featuring the Twinings Chai Tea Latte disc is perfect for coffee-shop addicts who want to stay close to home and keep their wallet there as well. The recipe is a gut-warming, generously flavored mix of strong black tea and luscious creamer. The serving, once brewed into your cup, is sufficient to fill a large mug and is comparable to a standard medium at most coffee shops. Like all of the Tassimo brewing system’s flavorful offerings, the Twinings Chai Tea Latte is a fast, convenient way to experience a hot drink at home. The tea disc gives you the pleasure of a deep tea experience without the waiting time of brewing and steeping to the desired strength.

Twinnings Chai Tea

Twinnings Chai Tea

If you entertain often, the Twinings Chai Tea Latte is a good coffee-alternative to keep on hand for delighting a non-coffee drinker when the rest of the guests are having their cup. The single serving quality makes it a perfect no-fuss offering for occasions like this.

Whether you are a tea aficionado or a coffee-lover who wants to diverge onto the spicy tea-leaf paved path once in a while, the Tassimo Twinings Chai Tea Latte is an experience worth trying.

Nabob Skinny Latte

Nabob Skinny Latte DispensersThe primary basis of comparison for this review is the authentic coffeehouse latte. The original drink is known for its simple mix of one or two shots of strong espresso with sweet steamed milk resting gently over the top. Nabob Skinny Latte was put to the test against a non-fat latte from one of the world’s most famous coffee chains, and one from a local Portland independent coffee shop. The Nabob Skinny Latte by Tassimo is made exclusively for the Tassimo home brewing system and contains, among other ingredients, skim milk concentrate, natural flavors and roast, ground Arabica coffee, which is noted for being some of the best coffee in the world. The other two lattes were also made with Arabica beans. It comes in the form of T-Discs, which are compatible with the Braun Tassimo TA1400 or TA1200 models, the Bosch Tassimo T20, T65, Suprema and numerous other coffee systems.

The initial attraction to the Nabob Skinny Latte was the word, “Skinny,” since a good non-fat or low-fat latte is hard to find. The drink is fat-free, which is a good thing, and only contains 35 calories, which, according to the company’s nutritional information, is 56% fewer calories than their full-calorie counterpart. The skinny latte from the famous coffee chain was advertised as having a whopping 90 calories and the calorie content of the latte from the independent coffee shop was an estimated 75 calories. Therefore, in terms of being an authentic low calorie offering, the Nabob Skinny Latte came out of the gate miles ahead of its contenders. The main challenge, however, was to ascertain whether or not sacrifices to flavor, texture and overall appearance were made in the process of making it a low caloric option.

A side-by-side inspection revealed that the freshly-brewed Nabob Skinny Latte looked exactly like the one purchased from one of the world’s most popular coffee outlets and was slightly lighter in color than the one from the independent Portland coffee shop. The color was exactly the same light, creamy brown as that of the traditional latte from the famous coffee shop chain, just a shade or two darker than a hot chocolate. The foam rested gently atop the Nabob Skinny Latte in exactly the same way as both of the other drinks.

Nabob Skinny Latte T Discs

Nabob Skinny Latte T Discs

The aroma was very similar with all three drinks. The Nabob Skinny Latte had a complex mixture of aromas. The independent coffee had a slightly stronger, more earthy aroma, while the latte from the famous coffee chain smelled slightly more acidic. Nabob had very subtle, honey-like, buttery overtones.

The quality and texture of the foam on all three drinks varied considerably. The foam of the Nabob Skinny Latte had more body and buoyancy than that of the latte from the famous coffee chain, but less so than the latte from the independent coffee shop. The foam lasted longer on the Nabob latte than on both of the other latte examples and held up throughout the entire consumption process, meaning that there was still foam left at the last sip.

Compared with the other two lattes, the Nabob Skinny Latte had a smooth, complex blend of flavors with a slight sweetness that was not cloying. The latte from the coffee chain had similar complexities, but was not as full-flavored as the Nabob product. The example from the independent shop had a far more acidic quality. The Nabob Skinny Latte was surprisingly full-flavored, especially considering that it is a non-fat coffee drink. The mix of flavors in the Nabob coffee drink were complex, interesting and had a delightful natural taste. Compared with the other two drinks, the Nabob Skinny Latte came out ahead in appearance, aroma and flavor.

Nabob Columbian T Discs

Nabob Columbian Blend

Nabob Columbian Blend

Nothing is better than waking up and having a great-tasting, perfectly brewed cup of coffee first thing in the morning, especially when it’s brewed in under sixty seconds.  My favourite brand of coffee is from a Canadian Company called Nabob, who has been around since the late 1800’s.  It brings me back to the days spent at the cottage with my parents, who percolated Nabob coffee first thing in the morning.  It never tasted baked or burnt, was always a great smell to wake up to.  It has been a staple in Canadian families for many generations, and has definitely stood the test of time.  The T-Discs offered by Tassimo from Nabob Coffee are no exception.

Nabob Columbian T Disc

Nabob Columbian T Disc

Nabob’s 100% Columbian Coffee is made from Arabica beans, and is a mild, well balanced, and delicious coffee without the bitter aftertaste that is so common these days.  It’s great first thing in the morning, can be a mild pick me up in the afternoon.  It also pairs nicely with a rich dessert.  I can drink it at night as its low caffeine content doesn’t keep me up.  Nabob Columbian is not a dark coffee, and definitely isn’t as strong as some of the other brands offered by Tassimo.  It has sometimes been compared to the Tassimo Jacobs Kroenung blend which we’ll be reviewing shortly.  This is in our opinion a light and well balanced coffee. If you prefer strong coffee, this might not be a good fit for you.

Nabob Columbian for Tassimo

Nabob Columbian for Tassimo

Whether you are at home, the office, or the cottage, Nabob Columbian Coffee from Tassimo is a wonderful way to enjoy a great tasting cup of coffee anytime of the day or night.  I also think it’s very reasonably priced, and luckily is made right here in Canada, and can be purchased at local grocery stores.  It has been a mainstay in my family for years.  Tassimo packages Nabob Columbian Coffee in two sleeves, with 7 T-Discs in each.  The cost for fourteen T-Discs is around six bucks, making it less than fifty cents per serving.  This coffee is a great bang for your buck as far as I am concerned.  I am happy Nabob is still one of Canada’s treasures, and that Tassimo found a way to share it with the world.  You should try some for yourself, and see if you love it as much as I do.  Let us know what you think of it!

Maxwell House Coffee For Tassimo

Maxwell House - House Blend (8 pack)

Maxwell House - House Blend (8 pack)

With the current array of single-serving coffee makers on the market, there seem to be a lot of different coffee options you can try. Flavored coffees, coffees from different regions of the world, and an assortment of unusual and fancier grounds make the everyday coffee experience more exciting. However, there’s definitely something to be said for relying on the tried-and-true basics, the coffees that have been around for many years and have proven themselves to be excellent traditional blends.

House Blend T-Disc

Maxwell House has been a major coffee company since the 1890s, and many people have memories of growing up with it as a regular part of their parents’ morning routine. The slogan “good to the last drop” has remained in the memories of so many of us because we can remember our parents, and them ourselves, uttering these words when we took that last sip from the bottom of the cup. There’s a certain amount of nostalgia that comes with Maxwell House, so when they came out with their House Blend coffee T-discs for the Tassimo line of single-serving coffee makers, nobody was sure that the old favorite would be a good fit with the modern appliance. Maxwell House (House Blend) for the Tassimo doesn’t seem to be part of the new assortment of “gourmet” coffees, but it turns out that’s exactly what gives it a unique and honest appeal.

House Blend - Maxwell House

Maxwell House T-discs for the Tassimo do one thing very well. They deliver a cup of really great coffee. The flavor is memorably smooth and rich. It does not have the scorched or burnt taste of some very deep roast coffees, and its flavor isn’t overly bitter or acidic. It tends to skew toward a more balanced body, making it a great option for those who don’t really want artisan coffees, but just want really good, traditional coffee. Alone or coupled with the familiar pairings of milk and sugar, Maxwell House (House Blend) coffee is mellow and satisfying. The Tassimo T-discs are perfect for enjoying a singular cup of this better-than-average coffee. All in all, using the Maxwell T-discs in the Tassimo machines are an ideal way of savoring a cup of good, freshly-brewed coffee. There’s something comforting and warm about enjoying coffee from this traditional brand, and by delivering a reliably tasty, full-flavored product, it’s no wonder it is still around. Having this available for the Tassimo is a helpful and handy option for those who enjoy the modern convenience of a single-serving brewer but like the classic taste of Maxwell House.

All in all, Maxwell House T-discs for Tassimo deliver a quality cup of coffee and are a solid choice for the coffee lover.

Nabob Breakfast Blend T-Disk

Nabob Breakfast Blend T-Disk

Nabob’s 12oz Breakfast Blend T-Disc is the company’s newest offering for the Tassimo home brewing system. The coffee offers more than just taste and value: now boasting that the blend contains more than 30% of Rainforest Alliance Certified content, the coffee allows java junkies and coffee enthusiasts the chance to have a quick, convenient, and flavorful cup of coffee on the go while still being mindful of safer coffee producing standards and environmental concerns. The blend marks the start of Nabob’s initiative to have all of their Tassimo T-Disc coffees include Rainforest Alliance Certified coffee beans, something for which the company has been praised.

 

Nabob Breakfast Blend For Tassimo

Nabob Breakfast Blend For Tassimo

The coffee, well-known for its light flavor and notes of citrus, did not fail to live up to these expectations. The inclusion of environmentally-conscious coffee beans has not altered the flavor at all; if anything, this is one of Nabob’s most flavorful coffee offerings for the Tassimo system. Compared to other leading breakfast blends from Maxwell House and Gevalia, the Breakfast Blend is a lighter, sweeter, citrusy coffee that is designed to be an easy first cup of coffee in the early morning. The flavors are designed to provide a smooth, robust cup of coffee without some of the more acidic and stronger overtones and aftertastes of a more full-bodied cup of coffee. Despite being marketed as a light roast, the blend creates a dark body that still yields a light, mellow flavor. The convenient 12 ounce size within the Tassimo T-Disc suits the blend perfectly, allowing the user to brew a single cup for a commute to work, a leisurely glance at the morning paper, or a perfect counterpart to a light breakfast. The blend never overshadows the flavors of standard breakfast fare, allowing drinkers to enjoy an easy cup of coffee that serves as a perfect compliment to any breakfast. In fact, Nabob’s website even offers coffee pairings for most of their popular blends, recommending frittatas and other egg dishes for the Breakfast Blend. For pairings, visit http://www.kraftcanada.com/en/products/a-c/coffee/nabobperfectpairing.aspx.

 

Nabob’s latest sustainability efforts are as ambitious as they are praiseworthy. The company, now offering 30 percent of their coffee source as being from sustainable sources, intends to increase that percentage to 60 within the next three years. By partnering with the Rainforest Alliance, Nabob’s coffees help to protect the environment and allow coffee growers to earn livable wages while practicing their craft. Taking the lead in sustainable sourcing efforts, Nabob’s coffee builds upon their name-brand success and their ubiquity in the Canadian market to bring environmental concerns to kitchen tables nationwide. Demonstrating that sustainable coffee can be affordable, and even tastier than coffees not containing Rainforest Alliance Certified contents, Nabob’s efforts should herald a new age in the sourcing of conventional, market-driven coffees.

 

Tassimo Nabob Breakfast Blend

Breakfast Blend For Tassimo

Tassimo-using coffee drinkers in the United States have enjoyed a wide range of breakfast blend offerings for many years, while Canadian counterparts have not been as fortunate. Nabob’s Breakfast Blend marks the beginning of many new offerings for lighter morning coffees, allowing Canadians to enjoy the wide range of options held by drinkers in the States. Thankfully, this first effort provides a great cup of coffee for any drinker. The T-Disc creates a full cup of coffee without feeling watered down, and suits a breakfast blend perfectly as the blend is not crafted for drinking all day. Thankfully for Nabob, the Breakfast Blend 12oz T-Disc provides a rich flavor, smooth taste, and convenience that any morning commuter can appreciate. The flavor and aroma of the coffee compliments the ease, affordability, and convenience of the T-Disc system, allowing anyone pressed for time to still enjoy a cup of coffee that is light, delicious, and still conscious of the environment.

Tassimo T20 Review

I love waking up in the morning, and having a perfect freshly brewed cup of coffee in less than 60 seconds.

I also enjoy having tea, and it’s nice to know that I can make a great cup of Earl Grey anytime without any taste transfer.  I love the sleek black space-saving design the T20 offers.  I can also get about three cups of coffee with the 1.5 litre water tank.

I would recommend this coffee maker to anyone who truly loves a perfect cup of java anytime of the day.  It’s pretty darn easy to clean as well.  It comes with a disc that will clean the machine with the touch of one button.  I just pop the disc in where the coffee goes, and in one cycle, it’s clean and ready to use.  I love the convenience of having coffee-shop quality coffee without having to leave my home. It’s also great when company comes over, as I can brew coffee, tea, lattes, cappuccino, and espresso.  It’s awesome and I just love it!!