In our opinion, the morning doesn't really begin until you have your first swig of coffee — and preferably espresso, since when it comes to coffee, we believe the stronger, the better. To get your morning started with a proper caffeine buzz, we've compiled a list of the best espresso coffee brands based on hyper-enthusiastic Amazon reviews, plus our own tried-and-true cult favorites.
Although espresso is technically just a style of coffee (and not a different type of coffee bean), what sets espresso apart from your average drip coffee is the specific method in which it is prepared. Brewed via an espresso machine — a coffee machine that forces a small amount of nearly boiled water under pressure through finely-ground coffee beans — espresso is usually served as a smaller shot since the flavor is more robust and concentrated.
Color: The lighter the color, the lighter the roast. For espresso coffee beans, you'll want to stick to an espresso roast, dark-to-medium roast, or French roast, which all come in medium-dark to blackish-brown in color.
Acidity: You should also take your desired flavor profile into consideration, and whether you prefer a sweeter, creamier blend or more bitter brew. For the former, look for low-acidity or lighter acidity blends, which not only curtail bitterness but also make a coffee habit easier and more enjoyable for those with reflux or heartburn issues.
Freshness: Take note of a blend’s “roast date,” as once beans are roasted, the process of oxidation (ergo, staleness) starts too. Barring this, another good indication of freshness is usually the bean’s oiliness. Coffee beans naturally contain oil, and drier beans can indicate that they’re past their prime. Ideally, they’re also best stored in airtight, non-clear containers or canisters for optimal longevity, as these keep out oxygen and UV light — both of which can degrade their quality.
This Super Crema blend from Italian brand Lavazza is an Amazon bestseller, based on overall quality and taste. Many reviewers describe being completely “hooked” on Lavazza after their first cup.
With rich notes of hazelnuts and brown sugar, this best-selling espresso brand tops our list as my Editor's Choice.
Living up to its name, this Knee Buckling Espresso from Stone Street Coffee Company is made from a selection of five different beans for an incredibly bold and fragrant brew. Reviewers love that this high-caffeine blend packs a ton of flavor without the usual espresso bitterness.
3
The Crowd-Pleaser
Starbucks Espresso Roast Dark Roast Whole Bean Coffee
Starbucks Espresso Roast has a rich caramel flavor that provides the perfect base for your morning latte. If you love Starbucks but hate waiting in line, this dark, whole-bean coffee blend will make your morning routine that much smoother.
Italian espresso brand Illy has a bit of a cult following here in the States, and for good reason: This finely ground espresso coffee is made from slow-roasted 100% Arabica beans for a rich, super-smooth taste.
Certified organic and ethically sourced from Central America, Lifeboost's Dark Roast beans pull a robust, full-bodied flavor that's also super smooth. It even yields a satisfying crema.
Most notably, though, is its low acidity, which many Amazon reviewers have said help to not trigger "a single ounce of acid reflux" and that it "doesn't give heartburn."
As it's boldly touted as the world's strongest coffee, the roasters behind this Saratoga Springs-based coffee brand know a thing or two about caffeine. We love that they use only USDA-certified organic and fair-trade beans in every bag.
This smooth, dark-roast ground coffee works beautifully for making both espresso and regular drip coffee. The 20,000-plus positive reviews on Amazon would probably agree.
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Smoky-Sweet Flavor
Peet's Coffee Italian Roast Dark Roast Ground Coffee
Reviewers gush about the smoky, yet slightly sweet flavor of this dark Italian Roast from Peet's Coffee. Many have noted that they've never experienced a bitter or burnt aftertaste from Peet's, even though this blend is considerably darker than other varieties.
With its balanced sweetness and robust flavor, the Italian Roast tastes particularly delicious when prepared as espresso or through a French press.
Fans of this popular bean can't get enough of its toffee-forward flavor, which also has hints of citrus, dark chocolate, and cherry for a smooth, well-rounded taste.
Featuring coffee from Central and South America, East Africa, and Indonesia via Portland, Stumptown's trademark sweet, yet complex blend is what put them on the map — and consequentially, into the hearts of coffee lovers the world over.
This unique blend of beans from Africa, Indonesia, Central America, and South America has a flavor that's described as “kickass dark” by multiple reviewers.
Plus, with a name like Kicking Horse, this espresso blend should give you a proper wake-up call! You can thank us later ...after you've had the most productive day of your life.
In case your at-home coffee-making machine of choice happens to be a Nespresso, we highly recommend these Livanto Capsules for your daily espresso fix.
A round and balanced medium-roast blend of Central and South American Arabica beans, these capsules are quick, convenient, and damn delicious. Oh, and they're also fully recyclable.
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Best for Espresso Machines
Volcanica Coffee Company Dark Roast Espresso Coffee
Though it's technically a dark roast blend, this option has more of a medium-roast appeal — aka it's full-bodied, but without tasting bitter due to its lighter acidity. You'll also find that this pulls in a creamy blend with notes of chocolate and caramel, as well as a spicy aroma.
12
Most Authentic
Intelligentsia Black Cat Espresso Whole Bean Coffee
The signature espresso blend from Chicago-based industry veterans Intelligentsia has long been a fan favorite. Its syrupy-sweet, creamy yield has notes of dark chocolate, cherry, and nuts. It’s also a medium-roast blend with just the right intensity and brightness — so much so that one user compared it to the real deal, saying, “The flavor profile very much reminded me of the espressos I had when visiting Rome.”
Eunice Lucero-LeeSenior EditorEunice Lucero-Lee is the Senior Editor for Best Products, and is a beauty, astrology, and pop culture obsessive whose work has been featured in publications such as Cosmopolitan, Esquire, The Numinous, and woman&home, among many others.
Danielle St. PierreSenior Food & Drink EditorDanielle is the former food & drink editor for BestProducts.com, where she put her knowledge as a cocktail consultant and connoisseur to use; her work can also be spotted on Thrillist, Food & Wine, and Delish.
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