You may have heard about the new Starbucks Via, Starbuck’s entry into the instant coffee arena. Though I’m not quite a coffee snob, those who know me know that I am a coffee purist. It’s much like why I prefer the National League over the American League. God never intended for designated hitters to replace pitchers who couldn’t hit their way out of a wet paper bag.
Over the years I have learned to appreciate how God created us with free will. We are free to make choices — good choices or bad choices. Living with free will lends itself to interesting experiences, such as the creation of iced coffee. Though the Bible is silent about such a matter, I can only infer that God never intended people to drink cold coffee. Would I make it a test of fellowship? Not quite. I’m still learning what Paul meant when he wrote, “We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves” (Romans 15:1).
Which brings me to this morning. Several months I read on a blog about Starbucks decision to enter the instant coffee market. Folgers and Maxwell House serve instant coffee. Sanka is synonymous with instant coffee, not Starbucks. The romance of Starbucks is the thought of a buyer working alongside a farmer in Costa Rica to grow the best beans possible. These beans are then roasted by master roasters and brewed by those who wear black aprons. It doesn’t come in a tube.
But now it does.
And now it’s time for my confession. Earlier this year, I purchased my first package of instant coffee (by Nestle). Normally, when I drink coffee at home, I grind my own beans and use a french press. But there are times when I only want one cup of coffee and don’t want to go to the hassle of cleaning the french press, etc. So … I bought instant coffee.
If I had a rich uncle, I would be written out of the will right now. And, honestly, I wouldn’t blame him. Unless he still drinks Folgers — then he would have no street credibility.
Will I buy Starbucks Via? Probably not — simply because it costs $2.95 for three packets. While that’s still cheaper than a regular cup of Starbucks brew, it’s much more expensive than other brands. Will I be won over? Only time will tell …
Have you tasted Via yet? I picked up the sample but it’s been sitting on the kitchen counter for a few days. I guess I should give it a try though. I’m interested to see how it does.
PS I’m with you on the designated hitters thing….:)
Ok, I was hoping you would say you had tried it and that it was doable for emergencies.
That’s my hope, anyway. For those times like when I visit my non-coffee-drinking family who has a coffee maker shoved into the back of the pantry (used only by me), but no coffee, unless I brought it myself.
In fairness to Starbucks, Via didn’t taste too bad. For those “forgivable moments of weakness” when no brewed coffee is available, I would drink a cup of Via. If I’m feeling really wild, I would drink Via while watching an American League game.