The best espresso beans match your taste preferences, desired coffee drink type, and the characteristics of the beans themselves – their species, origin, processing method, roast level, and freshness. Espresso beans are simply roasted seeds of the Coffea plant, but they undergo a longer roasting process (8 to 15 minutes) than regular coffee beans, resulting in a darker color, concentrated flavor, and a shiny surface due to the oils.
Because espresso beans come in various blends with unique flavor and aroma profiles, the 'best' choice is subjective. When selecting your beans, consider your budget (from commodity to specialty or rare varietals), the types of drinks you plan to make (e.g., dark roasts for milk drinks, light roasts for straight espresso), and even the type of espresso machine you own (superautomatic, manual, or Nespresso).
While grocery stores offer many options, the freshest and most flavorful espresso beans are often found from specialty coffee brands. Some examples of best espresso beans include Colombia Mokka from Paradise Roasters (known for its deep acidity due to experimental fermentation), Kona Espresso from Hula Daddy Kona Coffee (with floral notes of chocolate and orange), Espresso Crema from Powerbean Coffee (a rare East African arabica blend), and Marcela Gesha Espresso from Big Shoulders Coffee (consistently scoring above 90 points on the Specialty Coffee Association’s scale).
There are many other coffee beans for espresso that are best for specific circumstances, which we will discuss below.
1. Powerbean Coffee Crema Espresso
Description: Powerbean Coffee Crema Espresso is a medium-dark roast blend (40-50 points on the Agtron scale), meticulously grown by smallholding farmers on renowned estates such as the Kilimanjaro Coffee Plantation Estate and the Othaya Coffee Farms at altitudes of 5,200 to 7,500 feet. Powerbean Coffee Crema Espresso is a vibrant blend of premium Bourbon and Batian arabica varietals, sourced from Kenya, Tanzania, and Ethiopia, offers a luxurious flavor profile with bright acidity and a full body. It is suitable for most espresso machines, including Breville, Delonghi, and Keurig models. Each bag is roasted and shipped within hours of your order.
Taste: Powerbean Coffee Crema Espresso delivers a sparkling acidity that dances on the palate with notes of cranberry and lemon/lime. A rounded body provides a satisfying mouthfeel and incredibly long finish, while hints of orange and floral notes add complexity and depth. The overall experience is a sweet, well-balanced symphony of flavors that captures the essence of East Africa high altitude coffee.
Espresso Beans Brand: Powerbean Coffee is a specialty coffee brand providing 11 different types of premium-quality, ethically sourced coffee beans while supporting sustainable farming practices. Powerbean Coffee source beans from small-scale farmer cooperatives worldwide such as JUMARP in Peru, CAFESCOR in Honduras, and COOMULFAC in Nicaragua, ensuring fair compensation and community support for farmers.
Espresso Beans Availability: Crema Espresso is currently available for in two sizes, 12 oz (340 grams) and 5 lbs (2.27 kg) for purchase in the United States exclusively through Powerbean Coffee website. Because of the commitment to on-demand roasting, it is priced at $24.00 per 12 oz bag, comparable to other specialty coffee brands.
Powerbean Coffee Pros: Clean and consistent flavor, fruity finish, free of bitterness, available in both whole bean and drip grind options.
Powerbean Coffee Cons: It does come at a higher price point compared to other grocery store espresso beans.
Recommendation for Powerbean Coffee Crema Espresso: Powerbean Coffee's Crema Espresso is among the best coffee beans for espresso lovers seeking a classic Italian experience, whether enjoyed hot, iced, straight, shaken, or with milk.
| Powerbean Coffee Crema Espresso Features | |
|---|---|
| Coffee Brand Location | Albuquerque, New Mexico |
| Quality Standards | Specialty Coffee |
| Country of Origin | East Africa Blend |
| Roast Profile | Medium Dark Roast (Agtron 41/76) |
| Coffee Varietal | Bourbon and Batian |
| Process | Fully Washed and Sun Dried on Raised Beds |
| Elevation | 1500-2000 Meters |
| Typical Price in USA | $24.00 for 12oz Coffee (Free Shipping) |
| Where to Buy | Powerbean Coffee official website |
| Unique Characteristics | Crema Espresso, a favorite blend by Othaya Farmer Cooperative (KCCE), is expertly processed by 500 members at Gatugi Factory, yielding high-quality coffee beans. |
2. Paradise Roasters Colombia Mokka
Description: Paradise Roasters Colombia Mokka, a light roast coffee produced by brothers Rigoberto and Luis Herrera at Finca Hawaii in Cundinamarca, Colombia, is made exclusively from the Mokka variety. This unique bean, known for its small size and distinct genetic heritage, originates from seeds grown in Kāʻanapali, Maui. The beans undergo anaerobic natural processing, involving limited oxygen fermentation of whole coffee fruit before drying.
Taste: The Colombia Mokka from Paradise Roasters offers a complex and lusciously fruity profile with notes of black cherry kombucha, clove, pipe tobacco, and molasses. It has a lively, briskly sweet acidity complemented by a creamy, lithe mouthfeel.
Espresso Beans Brand: Paradise Coffee Roasters, established in 2002, is an origin-owned, vertically-integrated coffee company based in Hilo, Hawaii. Paradise Coffee Roasters manage coffee farms in Hawaii and maintain close relationships with other coffee producers worldwide, including Thailand, Ecuador, Costa Rica, and Taiwan. Known for sourcing and delivering fresh, distinctive coffees, this brand has earned high ratings from Coffee Review because of high quality, seasonality, and sustainability in their coffee.
Espresso Beans Availability: The Colombia Mokka Anaerobic Natural from Finca Hawaii is available in different sizes and grinds, freshly roasted to order. Prices range from $40.00 for a 4-ounce bag to $160.00 for a 5-pound bag.
Paradise Roasters Pros: Fermented with limited oxygen before drying, which received a high rating of 96 from Coffee Review.
Paradise Roasters Cons: This coffee is sold in small batches and may not always be in stock, plus is quite expensive compared to standard offerings.
Recommendation for Paradise Roasters Crema Colombia Mokka: Paradise Roasters Crema Colombia Mokka is one of the best light roast espresso beans for both blonde and sweet espresso drinks that pairs beautifilly with almond croissants, scrambled eggs, or creamy cheeses like ricotta, brie, or goat cheese.
| Paradise Roasters Crema Colombia Mokka | |
|---|---|
| Coffee Brand Location | Hilo, Hawaii |
| Quality Standards | Specialty Coffee |
| Country of Origin | Colombia |
| Roast Profile | Light (Agtron 66/90) |
| Coffee Varietal | Mokka |
| Process | Anaerobic Natural |
| Elevation | 1,200 to 1,800 meters |
| Typical Price in USA | $40.00 for 4 ounces |
| Where to Buy | www.paradiseroasters.com |
| Unique Characteristics | Sweetly spiced and complex, this espresso coffee offers a satiating fruitiness that lingers in a harmonious, incredibly long finish. |
3. Hula Daddy Kona Coffee Kona Espresso Special Selection
Description: The Kona Espresso Special Selection is a premium single-farm coffee from Hula Daddy Kona Coffee, grown and processed exclusively in the North Kona district on the Big Island of Hawai'i. This coffee undergoes a unique anaerobic natural processing method, in which the whole coffee cherry is fermented with limited oxygen before drying, intensifying its distinctive flavor profile. Hula Daddy, a boutique coffee producer, maintains exceptional quality by meticulously overseeing every step of production, from cultivation to roasting, at their farms located on the slopes of Mount Hualalai.
Taste: The Kona Espresso Special Selection offers a luxurious taste experience, featuring deep floral notes subtly intertwined with hints of chocolate and orange. This espresso has a medium-bodied mouthfeel with an impressively plush texture, creating a delicate complexity that shines when paired with milk for lattes or cappuccinos. The anaerobic fermentation process further enhances the overall experience, resulting in a silky, subtly sweet espresso.
Espresso Beans Brand: Hula Daddy Kona Coffee, established in 2002 by Lee and Karen Paterson, is a boutique coffee producer renowned for its award-winning Kona coffee grown on the slopes of Mount Hualalai in Hawaii. Recognized as the top coffee in 2018 by Coffee Review and listed among Forbes Magazine's top 12 coffee roasters in the United States, Hula Daddy is a leader in quality and taste.
Espresso Beans Availability: Hula Daddy Kona Coffee offers its Kona Espresso Special Selection beans online for $69.95 per 8-ounce bag. Customers can choose whole bean or ground options and receive free shipping on orders over $55 within the USA.
Hula Daddy Kona Coffee Pros: The coffee is grown, processed, and roasted on their own farms, consistently highly rated.
Hula Daddy Kona Coffee Cons: Coffee is available in limited quantities with high prices that might not be affordable for all customers.
Recommendation for Hula Daddy Kona Coffee's Kona Espresso Special Selection: Hula Daddy Kona Coffee's Kona Espresso Special Selection, ranked among the best espresso beans for lattes, is a luxurious choice for special occasions. Its rich blend of chocolate, floral, and fruity notes complements milk beautifully.
| Hula Daddy Kona Coffee Kona Espresso Special Selection | |
|---|---|
| Coffee Brand Location | Holualoa, Hawaii |
| Quality Standards | Single-farm blend, anaerobic natural process |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| Roast Profile | Medium-Light (Agtron 58/74) |
| Coffee Varietal | Kona |
| Process | Anaerobic natural method |
| Elevation | 427-762 meters |
| Typical Price in USA | $69.95/8 ounces |
| Where to Buy | www.huladaddy.com |
| Unique Characteristics | Luxurious with deep floral notes, subtle chocolate and orange, medium weight, plush texture. |
4. Vermont Artisan Coffee & Tea Sumatra Dark
Description: Sumatra Dark from Vermont Artisan Coffee & Tea is a dark roast coffee produced at the Simalem Estate in North Sumatra, Indonesia. It is crafted using the traditional Sumatra washed and wet-hulled method, resulting in a rich, full-bodied profile. Vermont Artisan Coffee & Tea offers this coffee as part of their selection of craft-roasted beans, sourced sustainably and sold to retail establishments and customers.
Taste: Vermont Artisan Coffee & Tea's Sumatra Dark entices with a rich, earth-toned profile. Delicate notes of vanilla orchid mingle with the warmth of scorched oak and a hint of sweet pipe tobacco. The roasty-sweet flavor boasts a balanced acidity and a light, fluffy mouthfeel, culminating in an earthy, lingering finish that highlights the essence of oak and tobacco.
Espresso Beans Brand: Vermont Artisan Coffee & Tea Co. is a craft coffee roastery located in Waterbury Center, Vermont, known for producing high-quality, sustainably sourced coffees and teas. The company, featuring a state-of-the-art roastery and a dedicated coffee bar, was influenced by the expertise of Johan Kwe of Simalem Estates in Northern Sumatra.
Espresso Beans Availability: Vermont Artisan Coffee & Tea's Sumatra Dark is available at their Coffee Bar in Waterbury Center, Vermont, and online at www.vtartisan.com for $15.75 per 12-ounce bag. The coffee can be purchased as whole bean or ground, with additional quantities up to 5 pounds available.
Vermont Artisan Coffee & Tea Pros: Light and rather fluffy, making it pleasant to drink at affordable price.
Vermont Artisan Coffee & Tea Cons: While available for purchase online, the product may have limited physical availability in stores, primarily in the New England region and potentially beyond.
Recommendation for Vermont Artisan Coffee & Tea Sumatra Dark: Vermont Artisan Coffee & Tea's Sumatra Dark Roast, offering a rich, full-bodied experience with earthy and floral notes, is the perfect choice for those seeking the best dark roast espresso beans. Ideal as a base for an Espresso Martini, Negroni, or Mocha Martini, this Sumatra Dark Roast elevates any celebration, big or small.
| Vermont Artisan Coffee & Tea Sumatra Dark | |
|---|---|
| Coffee Brand Location | Waterbury Center, Vermont |
| Quality Standards | Organic; Farm-Direct |
| Country of Origin | Karo Regency, North Sumatra, Indonesia |
| Roast Profile | Dark (Agtron 36/43) |
| Coffee Varietal | Catimor and Typica |
| Process | Sumatra washed and wet-hulled method |
| Elevation | 1,200 to 1,600 meters |
| Typical Price in USA | $15.75 per 12 ounces |
| Where to Buy | www.vtartisan.com |
| Unique Characteristics | Offers professional training and certification in a Specialty Coffee Association Certified Premier Training Facility |
5. Roadmap CoffeeWorks Kayon Mountain Ethiopia
Description: Kayon Mountain Ethiopia is a light roast coffee produced by the Hassen family at their Roadmap CoffeeWorks estate farm in the Odo Shakiso District, Guji Zone, southern Ethiopia. This naturally processed coffee, made from beans dried inside the whole fruit, showcases distinctive landrace Arabica varieties long cultivated in the region.
Taste: Roadmap CoffeeWorks Ethiopia Kayon Mountain offers a rich profile bursting with fruit and floral notes, including boysenberry, lilac, cocoa nib, honey, and cedar. Its winy acidity complements a plush, syrupy mouthfeel, leading to a lingering finish where the fruity and floral notes intertwine with undertones of cocoa nib, cedar, and honey.
Espresso Beans Brand: Roadmap CoffeeWorks, formerly Lexington Coffee Roasters, is an award-winning artisan roasting company based in Lexington, Virginia, nestled in the Shenandoah Valley. Founded in 1990, the company has been producing fresh, distinctive, and sustainable coffees for over 30 years.
Espresso Beans Availability: Roadmap CoffeeWorks Ethiopia Kayon Mountain is available for purchase online at www.roadmapcoffeeworks.com for $24.00 per 12-ounce bag. The coffee is roasted to order, typically ships within two business days, and orders over $50 qualify for free shipping using the code 'ROADLESSTRAVELED'.
Roadmap CoffeeWorks Pros: The coffee beans are dried while still inside the fruit's cherry, enhancing the coffee's complexity and depth.
Roadmap CoffeeWorks Cons: It is more expensive than other coffees.
Recommendation for Roadmap CoffeeWorks Ethiopia Kayon Mountain: Roadmap CoffeeWorks' Ethiopia Kayon Mountain is one of the best-rated espresso beans for iced and cold brew espresso, offering vibrant notes of wild berries, juicy citrus, and delicate florals. It pairs perfectly with a sunny afternoon, a good book, and a slice of lemon poppyseed cake.
| Roadmap CoffeeWorks Ethiopia Kayon Mountain | |
|---|---|
| Coffee Brand Location | Lexington, Virginia |
| Quality Standards | High, award-winning artisan roasting |
| Country of Origin | Odo Shakiso District, Guji Zone, southern Ethiopia |
| Roast Profile | Light (Agtron 65/86) |
| Coffee Varietal | Ethiopia landrace |
| Process | Natural |
| Elevation | 1900-2200 meters |
| Typical Price in USA | $24.00 for 12 ounces |
| Where to Buy | www.roadmapcoffeeworks.com |
| Unique Characteristics | Offers unique flavors of our award-winning coffees, artisan treats, and a relaxing coffee garden with a tasting room. For those on the go, our drive-thru offers quick, high-quality service. |
6. Revel Coffee Espresso Blend
Description: Revel Coffee's Espresso Blend is a versatile medium-light roast, ideal for both espresso and brewed coffee.
Taste: Revel Coffee Blend Espresso offers a deeply sweet, richly savory profile with notes of dark chocolate, salted almond nougat, tangerine zest, cedar, and sorghum syrup. It finishes crisp and chocolaty, with lingering cedar undertones. In cappuccino form, the tangerine zest provides a bright counterpoint to the rich dark chocolate.
Espresso Beans Brand: Revel Coffee, a Billings, Montana-based micro-roaster, is known for its dedication to quality. Founded on the motto "Quality is paramount – a difference you can revel in," Revel sources and roasts beans from around the world to craft exceptional blends.
Espresso Beans Availability: Revel Coffee Blend Espresso (12oz bag) is available for $19.75 from Revel Coffee online store or by call 406-534-9621.
Revel Coffee Blend Espresso Pros: Suitable for both espresso and brewed coffee.
Revel Coffee Blend Espresso Cons: Due to the custom-made nature of these espresso beans, they do not accept returns.
Recommendation for Revel Coffee Blend Espresso: Revel Coffee Blend Espresso is highly recommended as the best coffee beans for making Americano espresso in superautomatic espresso machines due to its balanced roast and versatile blend that ensures consistent, high-quality extractions.
| Revel Coffee Blend Espresso | |
|---|---|
| Coffee Brand Location | Billings, Montana |
| Quality Standards | Specialty Coffee |
| Country of Origin | Brazil, Guatemala, Ethiopia |
| Roast Profile | Medium-Light (Agtron 55/77) |
| Coffee Varietal | Various Cultivars |
| Process | Natural and Washed |
| Elevation | 800-2,200 meters |
| Typical Price in USA | $19.75/12 ounces |
| Where to Buy | www.revelcoffee.com |
| Unique Characteristics | Balanced blend for espresso, pour over, and drip coffee with notes of dark chocolate, caramel, citrus, and sweet fruits |
7. Durango Coffee Company Costa Rica Las Lajas Perla Negra
Description: Las Lajas Perla Negra from Durango Coffee Company is a specialty coffee produced by Francisca and Oscar Chacón in the Sabanilla de Alajuela region of Costa Rica, near the Poás Volcano. This Caturra variety coffee is processed using the natural method, where the whole coffee fruit is dried. The farm, known for pioneering natural and honey processing in Costa Rica, is committed to organic practices and continuous experimentation to enhance coffee quality.
Taste: Durango Coffee Company's Costa Rica Las Lajas Perla Negra delivers a complex, richly fruity taste experience. Notes of wild strawberry, cocoa nib, and honeysuckle intertwine, creating a sweetly tart structure with vibrant acidity. The syrupy-smooth mouthfeel lingers, finishing with subtle hints of sandalwood.
Espresso Beans Brand: Durango Coffee Company, founded in 1984 by local coffee enthusiasts in Durango, Colorado, specializes in roasting small batches of unique coffees sourced from around the world. The company has cultivated long-standing relationships with farmers and importers to ensure a consistent offering of high-quality, flavorful beans.
Espresso Beans Availability: Durango Coffee Company's Costa Rica Las Lajas Perla Negra coffee is available for purchase online at durangocoffee.com, with prices ranging from $18.95 to $126.33 depending on size. The company offers free shipping on orders over $50 and local pickup in the Durango area. To ensure freshness, all coffee is roasted to order.
Durango Coffee Company Pros: Produced by a family-run farm known for its organic and innovative processing methods.
Durango Coffee Company Cons: Higher price range, costing up to $126.33 for larger quantities.
Recommendation for Durango Coffee Company Costa Rica Las Lajas Perla Negra: Durango Coffee Company's Costa Rica Las Lajas Perla Negra is among the best medium roast espresso beans for a classic single espresso shot. Its richly fruity notes also make it an ideal base for citrus-forward Espresso Tonics, velvety sweet Espresso Shakeratos, or Iced Flat Whites—perfect as refreshing pick-me-up beverages on summer mornings or afternoons.
| Durango Coffee Company Costa Rica Las Lajas Perla Negra | |
|---|---|
| Coffee Brand Location | Durango, Colorado |
| Quality Standards | Specialty Coffee |
| Country of Origin | Costa Rica |
| Roast Profile | Medium-Light (Agtron 58/80) |
| Coffee Varietal | Caturra |
| Process | Natural Process |
| Elevation | 1,200 to 1,800 meters |
| Typical Price in USA | $18.95/12 ounces |
| Where to Buy | www.durangocoffee.com |
| Unique Characteristics | Las Lajas is special for pioneering the Honeyed coffee process and producing high-quality organic coffee using meticulous natural and honey methods. |
8. Lavazza Super Crema
Description: Lavazza Super Crema, a medium espresso roast, is renowned for its full-bodied richness, thick, compact crema, and sweet aroma. With a smooth texture embodying the essence of Italian coffee craftsmanship, it is ideal for traditional espresso enthusiasts.
Taste: Lavazza Super Crema Whole Bean Coffee Blend offers a rich, full-bodied flavor with notes of hazelnut and brown sugar, ideal for those who appreciate a traditional Italian-style espresso. Likewise, Lavazza Gran Espresso Whole Bean Coffee Blend delivers a balanced yet rich taste, showcasing hints of cocoa and spices.
Espresso Beans Brand: Lavazza, a renowned Italian coffee brand established over 120 years ago by the Lavazza family, specializes in premium coffee blends. Their diverse product range includes traditional espresso blends and specialty roasts, embodying the authentic Italian coffee experience.
Espresso Beans Availability: Lavazza Super Crema is available at various grocery stores and online retailers like Amazon, Costco, Walmart, Target, and more. Lavazza blends are not typically found in specialty coffee shops. They are priced around $19.75 for a 2.2-pound bag.
Lavazza Super Crema Pros: Good value for money, one of the best espresso beans on Amazon.com.
Lavazza Super Crema Cons: In terms of taste and freshness, Lavazza Super Crema doesn't hold a candle to other specialty coffee brands such as Hula Daddy Kona Coffee, Powerbean Coffee, or Paradise Roasters.
Recommendation Lavazza Super Crema: Lavazza Super Crema stands out as the top choice for store bought espresso, offering the best coffee beans suitable for most home espresso machines, with a rich flavor profile and convenient availability on online stores.
| Lavazza Super Crema | |
|---|---|
| Coffee Brand Location | Italy |
| Quality Standards | Commodity Coffee |
| Country of Origin | Blend of beans from Brazil, Honduras, and Uganda |
| Roast Profile | Medium |
| Coffee Varietal | Not specified |
| Process | Not specified |
| Elevation | Not specified |
| Typical Price in USA | Around $19.75 for a 2.2-pound bag |
| Where to Buy | Amazon.com, grocery stores, some coffee shops |
| Unique Characteristics | Rich flavor with notes of hazelnut and brown sugar; suitable for most automatic espresso machines |
9. Hala Tree Kona Coffee SL28 Honey
Description: Hala Tree Kona Coffee SL28 Honey is a USDA organic-certified, medium-light roast that stands out for its unique honey processing and use of the rare SL28 Arabica variety. Cultivated, processed, and roasted entirely on the family-owned Hala Tree Farm in Captain Cook, Hawai'i, this coffee offers a taste of Hawaiian craftsmanship.
Taste: Hala Tree's Kona Coffee SL28 Honey entices with a vibrant, citrusy profile, bursting with notes of pink grapefruit and delicate lilac. Hints of baking chocolate and brown sugar add depth and complexity. A brisk, sweet acidity and luxurious, syrupy body culminate in a sweetly herbaceous finish, underscored by crisp chocolate undertones.
Espresso Beans Brand: Hala Tree Coffee is a family-owned coffee farm located in Captain Cook, Hawai'i, founded by Jean and Danielle Orlowski in 2012. This USDA organic-certified farm produces premium 100% Kona coffee and supports over 50 acres of coffee plantations in the Kona region.
Espresso Beans Availability: You can buy 100% Kona Coffee from Hala Tree Coffee, available in various roasts and formats, including medium, dark, and honey medium roast. Prices range from $54 to $75 for different sizes, with free shipping on orders over $75, and you can make a purchase directly from their website at halatreecoffee.com.
Hala Tree Coffee SL28 Honey Pros: Does not use chemicals or pesticides, USDA organic-certified espresso beans, received high reviews and ratings.
Hala Tree Coffee SL28 Honey Cons: The coffee is relatively expensive.
Recommendation for Hala Tree Coffee SL28 Honey: Hala Tree Coffee SL28 Honey is recommended as one of the best organic beans for espresso, whether enjoyed with honey, lemon, or plain black.
| Hala Tree Coffee SL28 Honey | |
|---|---|
| Coffee Brand Location | Captain Cook, Hawai’i |
| Quality Standards | Specialty Coffee |
| Country of Origin | North Kona growing district, “Big Island” of Hawai’i |
| Roast Profile | Medium-Light (Agtron 58/80) |
| Coffee Varietal | SL28 |
| Process | Honey method |
| Elevation | 244 - 762 meters |
| Typical Price in USA | $38.00/8 ounces |
| Where to Buy | www.halatreecoffee.com |
| Unique Characteristics | Hala Tree Coffee has won multiple awards, including high rankings in various coffee competitions, demonstrating its excellence and reputation. |
10. Big Shoulders Coffee Marcela Gesha Espresso
Description: Big Shoulders Coffee's Marcela Gesha Espresso is a light roast coffee produced at El Vergel Estate in Tolima, Colombia, using the carbonic maceration natural method. This espresso is made exclusively from the rare Gesha variety of coffee beans, known for its unique processing and meticulous cultivation.
Taste: The Marcela Gesha Espresso from Big Shoulders Coffee has a plush, satiny body with sweetly tangy notes of pistachio and mango, resulting in a balanced and confident flavor profile. It evokes the rich, tropical sweetness of a finely crafted dessert, complemented by a hint of nutty complexity.
Espresso Beans Brand: Big Shoulders Coffee, founded by Chicago's Tim and Patricia Coonan, brings their combined experience in hospitality and culinary arts to the world of artisan coffee roasting. Their vision is a simple one: no-nonsense, high-quality coffee.
Espresso Beans Availability: Big Shoulders Coffee's Marcela Gesha Espresso is available for purchase in 8-ounce bags at $49.00 each, and can be bought directly from their website or by visiting their main office at 2415 W. 19th St, Chicago, IL 60608.
Big Shoulders Coffee Marcela Gesha Espresso Pros: The rare Gesha variety, endorsed by both Kenneth Davids and co-taster John DiRuocco, consistently scores 95 points on Coffee Review.
Big Shoulders Coffee Marcela Gesha Espresso Cons: It is relatively expensive.
Recommendation for Big Shoulders Coffee Marcela Gesha Espresso: Big Shoulders Coffee's Marcela Gesha Espresso is best enjoyed as a straight shot of double espresso or in milk-based drinks like a cappuccino to fully experience its rich notes of pistachio and tropical fruit.
| Big Shoulders Coffee Marcela Gesha Espresso | |
|---|---|
| Coffee Brand Location | Chicago, Illinois |
| Quality Standards | Specialty Coffee |
| Country of Origin | Tolima, Colombia |
| Roast Profile | Light (Agtron 67/88) |
| Coffee Varietal | Gesha |
| Process | Natural Carbonic Maceration |
| Elevation | 1460 meters |
| Typical Price in USA | $49.00 for 8 ounces |
| Where to Buy | www.bigshoulderscoffee.com |
| Unique Characteristics | Each batch of Marcela Gesha Espresso is roasted to order Monday through Friday to ensure peak freshness and flavor in espresso shot. |
What Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Espresso Coffee Beans?
Factors to consider when choosing the best coffee beans for making espresso at home are roasting date, origin of the beans, price, and much more.
- Date of Roasting: Freshness, referring to when the espresso beans were roasted, is the most important factor in flavor. Opt for freshly roasted beans (within 5-7 days after roasting) to ensure the best taste. Look for roast dates instead of "best before" dates. Powerbean Coffee roasts and ships within hours of your order, ensuring maximum freshness.
- Processing Method: The processing method significantly affects the final flavor of coffee. Recently, according to experts at Coffee Review, single-origin espressos using anaerobic fermentation (a process with limited oxygen) have been receiving consistently high ratings of 90+ points. This trend suggests that anaerobic fermentation is a game-changer in coffee processing. Notable examples of roasters producing excellent anaerobic espressos include Paradise Roasters and Hula Daddy Kona Coffee.
- Coffee Varietals: While hundreds of coffee varietals exist, not all excel in espresso. Gesha beans, celebrated for their unique and complex flavor profiles, consistently high ratings, and meticulous processing methods, are among the most sought-after for espresso. Their price—often exceeding $50 for 8 ounces, as seen with Marcela Gesha Espresso from Big Shoulders Coffee and Costa Rica Volcán Azul Gesha Anaerobic Natural from Bird Rock Coffee Roasters—reflects their quality and rarity. However, the unparalleled taste experience they offer makes them a prized choice for espresso aficionados seeking the ultimate in flavor.
A 2023 study published in the journal Agribusiness reveals that consumers are increasingly prioritizing the social and environmental impacts of coffee production when choosing espresso beans. This heightened awareness translates into a willingness to pay a premium for sustainably produced coffee, alongside considerations such as brand reputation, customer reviews, packaging, and grind size.
What Is the Best Way to Keep Espresso Beans Fresh?
The best way to store espresso beans and maintain their flavor and freshness is in an opaque, airtight container at room temperature. This minimizes exposure to air, moisture, heat, and light, which can degrade the beans. For long-term coffee storage, consider freezing the beans in airtight containers. This slows down aging and preserves the fresh-roasted aroma. When using frozen beans, allow the container to reach room temperature before opening and grinding to prevent condensation.
What Is the Best Way to Grind Espresso Beans?
To achieve the best espresso, grind your beans to a fine, consistent size, typically between 200 and 300 microns, similar to powdered sugar or fine sand. This fine grind maximizes the surface area exposed to water during the short extraction time (about 20-30 seconds), which is crucial for a balanced and flavorful espresso shot. Inconsistent grind sizes can lead to channeling, where water flows unevenly through the coffee grounds, resulting in over-extraction and under-extraction, and ultimately a less balanced espresso with undesirable sour or acidic notes.
This diagram shows the different grind sizes for coffee, specifically for making espresso.
Now that we understand the significance of proper grind size, let's explore where to find the best quality espresso beans to enhance our coffee experience.
What Is the Best Place to Buy Espresso Beans?
To buy espresso beans that guarantee freshness, quality, and unique flavor profiles, choose specialty coffee brands. Buying espresso coffee online or directly from reputable roasters ensures the beans you buy are roasted recently and shipped fast. For an exceptional cup, try Powerbean Coffee's premium, ethically sourced beans that support sustainable farming.
