Organic Coffee Review: Newman's Own Organics

Most people don't think of chickens while drinking their favorite cup of coffee, but the Newman family does. Hollywood icon and racing legend, Paul Newman, established Newman's Own Organics in 1993. Since then, Newman's Own has donated millions of dollars to thousands of charities worldwide.

Currently, Newman's Own Organics are helping women in Oaxaca, Mexico raise organic chickens to help feed their families. In partnership with Green Mountain Coffee Roasters and CoffeeKids, Newman's developed a unique agricultural program that not only provides food for these women and their families, but also improves their household economy.

Previous philanthropic endeavors by the Newman family include a $500,000 pledge to Victory Junction Gang Camp. In honor of Adam Petty, late son of racing legend, Kyle Petty and his wife, Pattie, Victory Junction provides a medically safe place for children with serious illness to have fun.

I must confess. I've always had a "thing" for Paul Newman. After all, who could resist that handsome face and sexy blue eyes? Add in his wonderful charity work and I simply couldn't resist supporting his company. Because of my adoration of Paul Newman, I didn't hesitate one second to try his coffee. I was not disappointed.

Newman's Own Organics coffee contains 100-percent Arabica beans which are considered to produce the best coffee flavor. Currently, the company offers seven coffee varietals: Café Almond Biscotti, Colombian Especial, Nell's Breakfast Blend, Newman's French Roast, Newman's Special Blend, Newman's Special Decaf and Vanilla Caramel.

My personal favorite is Newman's Special Blend; a full-bodied blend with rich flavor. A combination of medium and dark roasts, Special Blend not only will get your motor running in the morning, it's also perfect for coffee drinks; especially those made with frozen yogurt or ice cream. Yum!

Newman's French Roast is my second favorite. My husband isn't a big fan of French roast coffee, so I save this blend for days when he is out of town. I like to serve Newman's French Roast when I have girlfriends over for coffee and dessert. It's perfect for dipping Biscotti and compliments pound cake and pecan pie.

Colombian Especial is a good choice for every day coffee. It's a lighter roasted coffee and doesn't leave a heavy aftertaste in your mouth. This is an excellent coffee to serve guests, as it is a middle-of-the-road varietal. It's not too bitter or too heavy and suits nearly everyone's palette. Colombian Especial compliments shortbread cookies, Snickerdoodle cookies and apple pie.

I've only had the opportunity to try Nell's Breakfast Blend on one occasion. Apparently, this is the most popular blend in our area because the store is always sold out of it. As I recall, Nell's offers a softer taste and consists of light and medium roasted beans.

I'm not a big fan of flavored or decaf coffees, so I haven't tried Café Almond Biscotti,Vanilla Caramel or Newman's Special Decaf. However, I'd venture to say they are probably quite flavorful and live up to the Newman reputation.

Newman's Own Organic coffees are available in most major grocery chains, retail outlets and online at Green Mountain Coffee Roasters. Prices are comparable to other gourmet and organic brands and are oftentimes lower than some of the commercial brands.

If you end up becoming a Newman's Own Organic coffee addict like me, consider joining Green Mountain Coffee home delivery service. Not only can you purchase bags of whole beans or ground coffee, you can also order the popular K-cups. By joining the free Café Express Club, you'll save $2 off every box of K-cups and 5-percent off all other items.