Which bean?

[bica]

Well I must say that in the very short time I've been here I've learned a lot about coffee, it's an even bigger world than I imagined (especially since I've been foolish enough to stick to pre-ground for so long). So I've decided to take the plunge; I'm started looking for a proper grinder but alas as I am a lowly student no espresso machine just yet (baby steps, baby steps ). I've been looking for the right beans and thought I'd ask here first, there's two different kinds of flavours I'm looking for:

1st - Something rich, creamy and nutty, not too much acidity but not bland either. I was thinking of something comforting, good with milk and suitable for french press

2nd - This one is for a friend, she says would like something rich, creamy and intense. From what she said it sounds like she wants something complex with a just a bit of a kick. Not overly worried about price on this one since it'll be for a special occasion so I can save up if I have to.

I've been looking around online and have found a few that interest me but there's just too much choice I wouldn't know where to begin any advice would be greatly appreciated!

[ivdp]

Well if you don't know which one to choose, take nr. 1 and later nr 2 etc.
After nr 150 you will know a lot more.
Trying is the word.

[Aadje]

hey that's my tactic . . . who told you that

[bica]

hehe okay I guess my quest will take longer but it's worth it onwards!

[Gadders]

Thats the annoying thing about coffee... you hear all these extravagant adjectives splashed around to describe the coffee - but they are so subtle i find them really hard to pick out

[bica]

I'm guessing it's like wine then, you know with the - oaky, fruity, smoky, light and airy, bla bla bla it's all wine to me and you're right the descriptions are awfully similar for a lot of the ones I've seen, guess the only way to really find out is trying

[GeorgeW]

Thats the annoying thing about coffee... you hear all these extravagant adjectives splashed around to describe the coffee - but they are so subtle i find them really hard to pick out

Rest easy old son. Some of the splashers, especially one of a decidedly doughy appearance, will soon be confined to Pseuds' corner...and rightly so.

[CakeBoy]

Splish splash ....... time for a medium roasted sweet caramel La Manuela with good mouthfeel and a creamy finish methinks .............

I'll get my coat

[Aadje]

cmon, you didnt even mention the grapefruit, raisins, the earth and a dozen of different spices

[bruceb]

I'll get my coat

You mean Beany's coat...the pink one...or?

[Aadje]

[Keeka]

I'd say for your 2nd choice Bica you might try an Ethiopian Harrar - definitely complex, winey, and a great chocolate kick.

[Gadders]

Actually this one is quite funny...

I roasted the Sante Fe the other day, and with the beans 5 minutes after the roast held them up to somebody for a sniff of approval.

"Hmmm, nice... but... huh...whats that!?? Smells a bit like... dog cr*p" ... !!!

Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

[bica]

Gadders: hahaha ouch only question is, how did it taste???

Keeka: Thanks for the advice I'll definitely put it on my list

[lastcoyote]

Splish splash ....... time for a medium roasted sweet caramel La Manuela with good mouthfeel and a creamy finish methinks .............

mmm...just drinking some of the lovely stuff right now cakey.
very nice mouthfeel, and i get the floral notes too