I finally tried the Via, and it's not bad. It's certainly far better than the usual US domestic instants (Folgers, etc.). However, I still prefer the Mt. Hagen Organic instant (a German brand found in high-end health food stores such as Whole Paycheck) as it's less bitter.

I generally eat a cold breakfast without hot beverage. If the mornings are really cold (as on my trip earlier this week), a cup of hot tea hits the spot.