Casi Cielo K-Cups:

For the first time ever, Starbucks will be offering Casi Cielo coffee in the K-Cup format.  I’m not a Keurig machine owner myself, but if I had one, I would like this.  This is a blend of Latin American coffee designed for fine dining.  Historically, Casi Cielo has hints of lemon and chocolate.  Last year’s Olive Way coffee seminar event for Casi Cielo was fantastic!  This year’s Olive Way Casi Cielo event will be on Monday the 21st at 6:00 p.m. – I hope I will see you there!

As to the exact date of the launch of Casi Cielo, I don’t know for certain.  I have had some partners tell me the 16th and others say the 17th, but it’s one of those two days!  As to be expected, Casi Cielo is a seasonal offering.  I imagine you’ll want to stock up on the K-cups if you have a Keurig machine at home.

Casi Cielo is one of my favorite coffees.  I have told this story many times, but I discovered the Clover brewer in January 2008.  There is a Clover at the 6th and Union Starbucks, and one day in January, I ordered my first Clover-brewed cup of coffee:  Casi Cielo.  It’s been a love story with Casi Cielo ever since! 😉

January tumbler “improvements” idea:

A member of MyStarbucksIdea.com suggested that the January tumbler come with an insert that explains what it’s good for.  This is a great idea.  The month is half way over, and I discover that there are still confusing conversations about that.  I had erroneously thought that iced coffee was included:  it seems that a couple of regular stores had just been saying “yes” to me without further explanation.  And I have told some partners that I heard that the tumbler includes an add shot and syrups, and been met with disbelief.

I hope to see the tumbler continue next year, though I would agree, there could be a few improvements.  This year, as far as I can tell, the tumbler covers hot brewed tea (grande sized hot tea), grande brewed coffee (Pike Place Roast, or whatever happens to be available) including add shots an syrups.  There may be more!  And in casual conversation, I have heard partners say that they include iced coffee always since it is a brewed coffee, and not an expensive product.  (I think brewed coffee with an add shot is a more expensive item?).  One thing I know, this tumbler definitely does not include iced tea.

And obviously, if you want to get a latte or a Refresher or other handcrafted beverage in your special January tumbler, you will receive a ten cent cup discount, but the item is not free.

Hope everyone is having a great Monday!