"Exceptional Organic Espresso - Systematic Testing Confirms Excellence I've been systematically evaluating Five Star's Organic Espresso blend over the past week using professional-grade equipment (Bezzera Duo MN, DF64 grinder), and the results have been outstanding. Aromatic Profile: This is the most fragrance-forward espresso I've tested. The chocolate aromatics during grinding are extraordinary - easily noticeable from a foot away even at 15+ days post-roast. The sealed jar aging protocol preserved these aromatics beautifully throughout the entire consumption period. Extraction Characteristics: The blend is forgiving and versatile. I tested multiple brew ratios and consistently achieved excellent results. At a ristretto ratio (1:2.0, 24g→48g), the subtle cocoa notes finally came through into the cup, creating a beautifully balanced espresso with no harsh or woodsy undertones at 201°F brew temperature. Peak Performance: After systematic calibration, I achieved what I'd rate as 9.6/10 quality - rivaling or exceeding any commercial café espresso I've experienced. The blend pairs exceptionally well with dairy in my crema infuso preparation, creating a harmonious coffee-and-cream integration. Customer Support: Special recognition to Alejandra and the QC team, who provided detailed technical guidance on roast profile, optimal brew temperatures, and ratio recommendations. Their expertise helped me optimize extraction and understand the blend's fragrance-forward characteristics. This level of professional support from a local roaster is rare and deeply appreciated. Optimal Window: Consumed at 13-16 days post-roast (within their recommended 10-21 day window), the beans performed consistently with strong aromatics and excellent flavor development throughout. Final Assessment: The Organic Espresso blend is a proven performer that rewards careful preparation. The Honduras/Peru washed components deliver exactly what the roaster promised - chocolate-forward fragrance with subtle, sweet cup character. I'm reordering this blend and highly recommend it to anyone pursuing espresso excellence. If you're serious about quality espresso and willing to dial in your equipment properly, Five Star's Organic Espresso will deliver exceptional results."

"Fresh, flavorful, and delicious! Five Star Coffee Roasters in Holly Springs has amazing freshly roasted beans and a great coffee bar. Friendly staff and top-notch coffee — highly recommend!"

"Very nice people and prices are pretty good in the shop, but I don't know. From my experience the light roasts can be medium (still good though) and the medium roasts can be dark. Also a minor nit - bags bought in store do not have roast dates, which is fairly unacceptable as they have a place for that info on the bottom - so you kind of have trust when they were roasted was fairly recently and a unsold bag wasn't sitting on the shelf."

"Great shop with friendly staff. The coffee is very fresh and delicious! They have a large selection to pick from as well."

"First time here and we were provided a great overview of the coffee roaster and all of their products. It will take us awhile to work through all of their different blends, but we're starting with a medium and a dark."