August’s shot was on the 8th, in Malmö. On Djäknegatan sits Nordic Brew Lab: specialty beans, gear, and a counter where they take the cup seriously.
They were very clear from the start. They focus on lighter roasts, and that might not be exactly what I was after. I said I was prepared to try. We agreed it would be best if I chose their somewhat darker roast, an interesting bean from Colombia called Natural Striped Red Bourbon. A mutation of the classic red Bourbon, with thin vertical stripes along its length.
Their water is cleaned with reverse osmosis, so a lot of what tap water carries is gone, including minerals. On the counter they leave a small bottle of additives. You can put a drop or two into the cup if you want some of that back, without the rest of the tap-water baggage. Optional. I took a photo before the first sip: glass cup, spoon, bottle standing by.
I expected some acidity, and that is what I got, but not at all unpleasant. Controlled. I believe that is a feature of Bourbon, and overall it was a good experience. The staff were very professional. Honest about what they pour, careful about what they recommend.
If you care about coffee and are open to something a little outside the usual dark-roast comfort zone, this is a place I would go back to.
September can wait. This one earned its slot.