Challenged by my colleague Marque I returned to Vergnano to compare it against Monmouth coffee. Service was typically severe but I've always forgiven that on the assumption the baristas have to give their full attention to the shiny coffee machine, which towers above them reflecting back a constant reminder of how they've surely given up promising modeling careers to dedicate themselves to the art of the award winning espresso. Americano was exactly right, served with warm milk on the side. Latte came in a glass, a gentle tap on the counter mixing it perfectly. So yes Marque, it was really good. But not better than Monmouth in my mind in part due to the much duller decor and, mostly, due to the absence if the flat white from the menu. Still worth a trip though.
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Why, people do read these things?
ReplyDeleteI learned to drink coffee in Italy, so it needs to be strong, hot and sweet.
Obviously that is not everybody's preference, but the strong part of that equation is what separates the boys from the baristas. If you don't know what you are doing, when increasing the potency of the coffee, you will quickly ruin it and turn it bitter.
Therein lies the voodoo that Vergnano do so well. An espresso here is a slice of black velvet. Powerful, strong and rich but never ever bitter and unpleasant.
Given your efforts, I must return to Monmouth and give them a sporting chance to redeem themselves.
... Yes, Flat White is fast becoming a serious omission on their part.
ReplyDelete