Zoka Coffee's Tatoosh is a dark roast that defies expectations. Named for the Tatoosh Range in Mount Rainier National Park—"Nourishing Beast" in the native tongue—this blend marries naturally processed African coffees with washed South American beans and bold Indonesian cultivars into something genuinely layered. It's Zoka's third best-seller for good reason: the fruit-forward character of natural process survives the darker roast, delivering strawberry and black cherry brightness against a backdrop of deep chocolate and the earthy, syrupy body that only Sumatran coffee can provide.
Tasting Notes
Expect ripe strawberry and black cherry on the nose, transitioning to bittersweet chocolate and subtle spice as the cup cools. The body is substantial without being heavy—creamy, almost velvety—with a sweetness that lingers long after the sip. Acidity is muted but present, providing just enough structure to keep the darker roast from feeling flat. The finish is clean for a dark roast, with cocoa and a whisper of dried fruit.
Brew Methods
Tatoosh is versatile. It shines as espresso, where the natural process fruit plays beautifully against milk in cappuccinos and lattes, and the Sumatran body ensures rich crema. It's equally excellent in a French press, where the full immersion highlights its syrupy texture, or as drip coffee for those who want boldness without bitterness in their morning cup. Pour over works too, especially if you're after clarity in the fruit notes—just dial back your water temperature slightly to avoid over-extraction.
About the Roaster
Zoka Coffee has been a Seattle institution since 1996, roasting with precision and sourcing with intention. This blend reflects their commitment to complexity even in darker profiles.
Not sure which grind setting or brewing gear to pair with Tatoosh? Clive's team is here to help you dial it in perfectly.