The flavor was bitter, the dark liquid acidic on the tongue. One taster described it as aggressive in the manner of drain cleaner. An iridescent oil slick capped all our samples, looking like something spewed out behind a maimed petroleum tanker.To me, it is even simpler. Starbucks' coffee just tastes burnt. And, what's worst, they must aim for this taste because I have found this characteristic consistent across visits, times, and locations. I have a hard time believing that most people like it.
So why do so many people buy it? Ambiance? Seems unlikely. I think people buy it and drink it because they just don't know any better.
Before you tell me how wrong I am: Go try a cup of the unpretentious Dunkin' Donuts coffee. My office just happens to be equidistant between a McDonald's and a Starbucks. Price aside, I always pick McDonald's for coffee.