VIA CON DIOS, MI CAFE - Starbuck's VIA Instant Coffee

I am probably considered by Starbuck's marketing as an 'incidental' client. Not working in an office building, I am long out of the daily habit of the daily grind. My trips into Starbuck's are coincidental (there's one a block from a pharmacy I patronize) and basically to restock my supply of Double Shots, their canned coffee and cream drink, which, at $2.10 a pop, is real Starbuck's value.


On my past three visits I've been queried by staff as to my familiarity with the company's latest product/innovation VIA, its answer to instant coffee. And who am I to resist a hard sell and special introductory pricing?


So, have they surmounted the wishy-washy stigma of instant coffee?


I have sampled both 'flavors' or blends, 'medium' or Columbian and 'extra bold' or Italian roast. It should be noted that both 'flavors' have a slightly oily taste and quality, which makes straight black coffee drinking a bit tough. Besides that, neither of them are watery in their flavor.


Of the two, the latter is much more drinkable. Being a light and sweet drinker these days, the Italian roast makes a flavorful cup that I would make again. And at $1.00 / 8 oz cup it comes out as a Starbuck's bargain.