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10 Best Coffee Beans For Espresso 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Lavazza Super Crema Whole Bean Coffee, Medium Espresso Roast, Arabica and Robusta Blend, 2.2 lb Bag, Package May Vary (Pack of 1)

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,459
Freshness

Most important from
36337 reviews

Freshness
The freshness of Lavazza beans is unmatched, striking the ideal balance between boldness and smoothness without any bitterness.

Lavazza Super Crema Whole Bean Coffee is a good choice for those who enjoy a medium roast espresso. The blend of Arabica and Robusta beans from 15 different countries provides a rich and diverse flavor profile, with a bold and creamy finish that many espresso lovers will appreciate. As a whole bean coffee, it allows for maximum freshness when ground just before brewing, which is ideal for espresso preparation.

The 2.2 lb bag is substantial, making it suitable for regular coffee drinkers or those who entertain guests frequently. However, the medium roast level may not satisfy those who prefer a lighter or darker roast. This product is specifically designed for espresso, so it may not be the best fit for brewing methods like drip coffee or French press.

Additionally, while the diversity in bean origin can be a strength, some purists might prefer a single-origin coffee for a more consistent flavor profile. The packaging may vary, which could be a minor inconvenience for those who prefer a uniform look in their coffee storage. Nevertheless, Lavazza Super Crema offers a balanced and smooth espresso experience that caters well to both casual coffee enthusiasts and dedicated espresso drinkers.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,459
Freshness

Most important from
36337 reviews

Freshness
The freshness of Lavazza beans is unmatched, striking the ideal balance between boldness and smoothness without any bitterness.
#2

illy Coffee, Whole Bean, Medium Roast, 100 percent Arabica Bean Signature Italian Blend, Premium Gourmet Roast Pressurized Fresh, 8.8oz Can, 12 Pack

Rating
9.6
Roast Level
Freshness

Most important from
9275 reviews

Roast Level
The medium roasted whole beans are not oily, providing a phenomenal taste experience.
Freshness
The container is perfect for keeping the coffee fresh, and it's reusable, adding to its convenience.

The illy Coffee Whole Bean Medium Roast is a high-quality option for espresso lovers. It uses 100% Arabica beans sourced from various regions worldwide, ensuring a rich and consistent flavor profile. The medium roast delivers a balanced taste with notes of caramel, orange blossom, and jasmine, making each sip enjoyable and smooth.

The coffee comes in whole bean form, which is ideal for those who prefer to grind their beans fresh for each brew, enhancing the freshness and flavor of the coffee. illy’s patented pressurized packaging is a notable feature as it helps maintain the aroma and freshness of the beans until you are ready to use them. This can be particularly beneficial for those who may not consume coffee quickly and want to preserve its quality over time.

Additionally, illy's commitment to sustainable practices, as evidenced by their B Corp Certification, is a positive aspect for environmentally conscious consumers. Some users might find the price point on the higher side, given that it's a premium brand. In summary, illy Coffee Whole Bean Medium Roast is well-suited for those who appreciate a smooth, balanced cup of coffee and are willing to invest in a premium, sustainably produced product.

Rating
9.6
Roast Level
Freshness

Most important from
9275 reviews

Roast Level
The medium roasted whole beans are not oily, providing a phenomenal taste experience.
Freshness
The container is perfect for keeping the coffee fresh, and it's reusable, adding to its convenience.
#3

Lavazza Espresso Barista Gran Crema Whole Bean Coffee Blend, Medium Espresso Roast, Oz Bag (Packaging May Vary) - 2.2 LB, 35.2 Ounce

Rating
9.4
Roast Level
Bean Blend vs. Single Origin
Freshness

Most important from
13540 reviews

Roast Level
The coffee flavor is described as buttery and creamy, with hints of caramel and chocolate, avoiding bitterness or over-roasting.
Bean Blend vs. Single Origin
The Gran Crema blend offers an incredibly velvety crema, perfect for cappuccinos and lattes, while also satisfying those who prefer a full-bodied espresso.
Freshness
The whole bean format ensures maximum freshness and flavor, allowing for a full taste and aroma with each brew.

The Lavazza Espresso Barista Gran Crema Whole Bean Coffee Blend is designed specifically for espresso enthusiasts. With its dark roast and medium intensity (7/10), it offers a full-bodied taste with delightful aromatic notes of honey and roasted coffee, which can appeal to those seeking a robust espresso experience. The blend combines Arabica and Robusta beans, providing a balance of rich flavor and crema, making it an ideal choice for espresso machines. The 2.2 lb bag size is convenient for frequent coffee drinkers, ensuring a consistent supply.

Sourcing from Italy, a country renowned for its coffee culture, adds to its appeal. Being whole bean, this coffee provides the flexibility to grind to your preferred size just before brewing, maximizing freshness. While the blend is excellent for espresso machines, those who prefer manual brewing methods might not find it as versatile. Lavazza's offering is a solid option for espresso lovers who appreciate a classic Italian coffee blend, but those with more specific preferences regarding roast level might want to explore other options.

Rating
9.4
Roast Level
Bean Blend vs. Single Origin
Freshness

Most important from
13540 reviews

Roast Level
The coffee flavor is described as buttery and creamy, with hints of caramel and chocolate, avoiding bitterness or over-roasting.
Bean Blend vs. Single Origin
The Gran Crema blend offers an incredibly velvety crema, perfect for cappuccinos and lattes, while also satisfying those who prefer a full-bodied espresso.
Freshness
The whole bean format ensures maximum freshness and flavor, allowing for a full taste and aroma with each brew.

Buying Guide for the Best Coffee Beans For Espresso

Choosing the right coffee beans for espresso can significantly impact the flavor, aroma, and overall experience of your coffee. Espresso is a concentrated coffee beverage that requires high-quality beans to achieve the best results. When selecting coffee beans for espresso, consider the following key specifications to ensure you pick the best fit for your taste preferences and brewing method.
Bean OriginBean origin refers to the geographical location where the coffee beans are grown. This is important because the climate, soil, and altitude of the region can influence the flavor profile of the beans. Coffee beans from Africa, for example, often have fruity and floral notes, while beans from South America may have nutty and chocolatey flavors. To navigate this, consider what flavor profiles you enjoy. If you like bright and fruity flavors, look for beans from Ethiopia or Kenya. If you prefer richer, chocolatey notes, beans from Brazil or Colombia might be a better fit.
Roast LevelRoast level indicates how long and at what temperature the coffee beans have been roasted. This is crucial because it affects the flavor, acidity, and body of the espresso. Light roasts are more acidic and retain more of the beans' original flavors, while dark roasts have a bolder, more robust flavor with less acidity. Medium roasts strike a balance between the two. If you enjoy a strong, intense espresso, a dark roast might be ideal. For a more balanced and nuanced flavor, a medium roast could be the best choice. Light roasts are less common for espresso but can be used if you prefer a brighter, more acidic shot.
Bean Blend vs. Single OriginBean blend refers to a mix of coffee beans from different regions, while single origin means the beans come from one specific region or farm. Blends are often created to achieve a balanced and consistent flavor profile, making them a popular choice for espresso. Single origin beans can offer unique and distinct flavors that highlight the characteristics of their specific region. If you value consistency and a well-rounded flavor, a blend might be the way to go. If you enjoy exploring unique and diverse flavors, single origin beans could be more exciting for you.
FreshnessFreshness refers to how recently the coffee beans were roasted. Freshly roasted beans are important for espresso because they retain more of their natural oils and flavors, resulting in a richer and more aromatic shot. Coffee beans are best used within a few weeks of roasting. To ensure freshness, look for beans with a roast date on the packaging and try to use them within a month of that date. If you want the best possible flavor, prioritize buying freshly roasted beans and avoid pre-ground coffee, as it loses freshness more quickly.
Grind SizeGrind size refers to how finely or coarsely the coffee beans are ground. This is crucial for espresso because the grind size affects the extraction process and the final flavor of the shot. Espresso requires a fine grind to ensure proper extraction and to create the right pressure during brewing. If the grind is too coarse, the espresso will be weak and under-extracted. If it's too fine, the shot may be over-extracted and bitter. To achieve the best results, use a burr grinder to grind your beans to a fine consistency just before brewing.

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