Yemen Haraaz Special Red Grade A+

[brew]

I splurged and bought 5lbs of this bean.  I'm sure it won't match the AA+ that was out in 2014 but it might be close.  Has anyone tried it yet?

[SusanJoM]

The one from Mill City?
I bought a bag and threw it in the freezer planning to roast it for my brother for Christmas.
Now he tells me he's drinking tea instead 

[brew]

I actually bought it from Roastmasters but would imagine it is the same Lot although MillCity lists theirs as Marqaha.  http://www.roastmasters.com/yemenred.html
I think the only reason i bought there was because they accept paypal.

[Gregr]

I got a pound and am almost done with it. I got 5 pounds of that 2014 lot you mentioned- it was incredible wasn't it? This new one is excellent but a tiny bit less chocolatey and less intense overall. Still has that strawberries and cream aroma though, and plenty of strawberry (cherry- like that) and a hint of something like brandy. Here's the roast profile:

[thusband]

Nice profile Greg.  I have a few pounds coming so am looking forward to it.  Espresso right?  Roastmaster suggests going to first pops of 2nd crack so I'll try that and then a lighter roast.

[Gregr]

I used mine as espresso yeah. I have a few ounces from a friend that roasts for the local farmers market- he dropped his very light for use as coffee. It's great as drip- having it right now. I pulled a shot of the light roast for espresso and it's not as good- the acidity overpowers the fruit and body, but for drip it's great.
Word of warning- the bean temp will try to take off after first crack so if you're not careful you'll end up at second crack too soon. Also, I'd recommend not going that far because you will probably lose some of the strawberry/cherry flavors that make it special.

[brew]

I got 5 pounds of that 2014 lot you mentioned- it was incredible wasn't it?

Yes!  In my mind it was a Rainbow Unicorn.