How to Find the Best Coffee Beans for Espresso

There’s something magical about a perfectly pulled espresso shot – the rich crema, intense flavor, and caffeine kick. It’s pure coffee bliss. But finding the best espresso beans isn’t as simple as it seems. Don’t worry, though – I’ve got your back. In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to become a legit home barista.

What Makes Espresso Beans Unique?

You might be wondering, “Why can’t I just use regular coffee beans for espresso?” Well, there are a few reasons why espresso requires a special blend:

• Tradition: Espresso has always been roasted darker than other coffee types. It has a distinct flavor that can’t be replicated with regular beans, which tend to taste acidic when pulled as espresso shots.
• Better with Milk: If you’re planning to use espresso in milk-based drinks like lattes or cappuccinos, you’ll need a dark roast that can cut through the creaminess of the milk.
• Cost-Effective: Single-origin coffee can be pricey. That’s why many cafes use espresso blends with a base of cheaper beans from countries like Brazil and Indonesia. It’s a cost-effective choice for busy establishments where customers aren’t focused on savoring every flavor note.

In essence, espresso is a forgiving method that allows for the use of more basic, affordable coffee beans that might not be as exciting when brewed using other methods. It’s like how a delicious burger can be made with simple ingredients, even though using expensive ingredients like Wagyu beef and truffles is an option.

Should Espresso Coffee Be Dark Roasted?

Yes, espresso beans should be at least a bit darker than regular coffee beans. That’s the tradition, and most people prefer it that way. However, there are many shades of darkness to consider.

It’s best to go for a roast that falls somewhere in the middle of the dark spectrum. This way, you’ll get great results whether you’re drinking lattes, flat whites, or single-shot espressos.

But be careful not to go too dark, as beans that are overly roasted can taste bitter and ashy. If the oil migrates to the outside of the bean or if the beans have a shining surface, they are considered very dark roasts. On the other hand, if the bean is still dark but dry in appearance, it’s a ‘full city’ roast – suitable for espresso.

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Keep in mind that while some people enjoy light roasts, it’s an acquired taste and requires experience and precise control over factors like pre-infusion, temperature, and grind size. It’s best to start with medium to dark roasts as a beginner.

Arabica vs. Robusta

The debate between arabica and robusta coffee beans can get heated and complex. Arabica beans are generally considered superior and more flavorful. However, don’t dismiss robusta beans entirely.

While robusta has received a bad reputation, it’s possible to find delicious varieties. Robusta beans are less sweet and less acidic compared to arabica, tasting different and slightly rougher. They also contain more caffeine and create more crema, which some people prefer.

Espresso is concentrated, so it doesn’t require high acidity. Therefore, a well-grown robusta can taste fantastic as a single-origin espresso. The species has a natural higher caffeine content and produces more crema, which can be appealing.

Commercial espresso blends often include robusta beans because they are more cost-effective. Some Italian espresso blends, for example, contain a percentage of robusta. It’s worth trying to see if you enjoy the flavor.

The Best Coffee Beans for Espresso & Cappuccino

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into some specific coffee bean recommendations for your espresso and cappuccino adventures:

1: Coffee Bros Espresso Blend (Medium roast)

Coffee Bros is a roastery run by two brothers, and their Espresso Blend is a crowd-pleaser. It works great both as a straight shot and as the base in milk-based drinks. Made from 100% Arabica beans, this medium-roasted blend brings out natural sweetness and has a cleaner finish than blends that include robusta. The coffee features flavor notes like strawberry, sugar cane, and vanilla. It’s a great choice for both experienced home baristas and beginners. Official Store

2: Illy – The Best Italian Coffee for Espresso

Illy’s Classico blend is a classic choice for espresso. It features flavors of cacao, almond, raisin, and hints of orange peel. Illy is a reputable Italian brand known for its meticulous bean selection process. The medium roast is versatile and suits various brewing styles. However, if you primarily drink espresso with milk, you might prefer a slightly darker roast. Illy’s Classico blend is available as whole beans or pre-ground coffee. It’s a reliable option that won’t disappoint. See more reviews

3: Intelligentsia Black Cat Espresso Blend

Intelligentsia is a legendary specialty coffee company known for its direct trade practices. They pay a fair price for high-quality beans, resulting in exceptional flavors. The Black Cat Espresso Blend is dark, mysterious, and rounded, with notes of chocolate, caramel, and molasses. Low in acidity, it’s suitable for milk-based drinks and those with sensitive stomachs. Intelligentsia’s commitment to quality shines through in this blend. See more reviews

4: Lavazza Espresso Italiano: The Best Espresso Beans

Lavazza Espresso Italiano is a medium roast coffee that offers a subtle, balanced flavor with notes of hazelnut and chocolate. It’s an all-around coffee that can be enjoyed as a straight shot or in milk-based drinks. This blend is more affordable compared to Illy’s famous medium roast, but it’s on par in terms of quality. It’s an excellent choice for budget-conscious espresso lovers. See more reviews

5: Lavazza: Best coffee beans for super automatic espresso machines

Lavazza Rossa is a classic Italian espresso blend that features a significant amount of robusta beans. It offers a strong, crema-rich coffee with subtle notes of cacao nibs. While it may not satisfy the most discerning espresso snobs, many people still appreciate its traditional flavor profile. This medium-dark roast is an excellent choice for filling your super automatic espresso machine. Give it a try if you’re looking for a straightforward, no-nonsense espresso. See more reviews

6: Trade Coffee Subscription for Espresso

If you love coffee clubs, Trade Coffee is a fantastic option. They collaborate with various top-notch roasters, providing specific coffee recommendations based on your brewing method and preferences. Whether you prefer dark and intense flavors or fruity and light profiles, Trade Coffee has got you covered. By subscribing to their service, you’ll receive freshly roasted, high-quality espresso beans tailored to your needs. Plus, there’s a generous discount when you sign up. Official Store

Go deeper

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If you’re eager to geek out and expand your espresso knowledge, stick around for some additional information.

Why Does Single-Origin Matter?

Single-origin coffee has become the standard among coffee snobs for a good reason. It allows you to experience the unique flavors and terroir of a specific place. Blends can make it challenging to determine which beans contribute to particular flavor notes. Some roasters now offer single-origin espresso roasts, which provide clarity and a more interesting coffee experience. These roasts are typically darker than filter versions of the same beans but lighter than what’s considered a dark roast. They’re best enjoyed straight or diluted with hot water rather than with milk.

What Is an Omni Roast?

Many specialty roasters have introduced the concept of “Omni” roast. This refers to a one-size-fits-all roast that can be used for espresso, pour-over, and French press brewing methods. While this approach simplifies the roaster’s life, it may not deliver a traditional espresso experience or work well with milk-based drinks. Omni roasts tend to be relatively light to accommodate various brewing styles.

Things to Look for in a Blend

When choosing a blend, consider whether you’ll mainly drink straight espresso or make milk-based drinks. For straight espresso shots, avoid blends that contain robusta. Look for 100% arabica blends, preferably with beans from East Africa or Central America to add fruity top notes. Opt for blends that are not overly dark-roasted, with beans that aren’t shiny from oil on the outside.

For milk-based drinks, darker blends or those featuring robusta can provide a more roasted note that enhances the flavor when combined with milk.

Grind Size for Espresso Beans

• Authentic Espresso (Single Wall Basket): Grinding for espresso is a specialized topic, but the key is to use a grinder capable of making micro-adjustments and producing a fine grind almost like powder. This way, the coffee grounds provide the required resistance to the water, resulting in a rich, concentrated espresso. Avoid a grind that is too coarse; otherwise, you’ll end up with a weak and watery shot.
• Pressurized Portafilter (Double Wall Basket): If you use a pressurized portafilter, you don’t need a precise espresso grind size. Pre-ground coffee labeled as ‘espresso’ and suitable for moka pots and machines with pressurized portafilters is available from many brands.

What Are Expresso Beans?

Just a quick note: “Expresso” is a common spelling mistake. It should be spelled with an “S,” not an “X.” It’s the same as regular espresso beans – nothing out of the ordinary.

And that’s a wrap! Now you’re equipped with the knowledge to find the best coffee beans for your espresso adventures. Embrace your inner home barista and enjoy the perfect espresso every morning. Happy brewing!

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