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For the discerning coffee aficionado, the quest for the perfect espresso is a journey. And at the heart of that journey lies the bean.
Sourcing quality beans is paramount, but with countless options vying for attention, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. This is especially true when seeking best award winning espresso beans.
Navigating the world of coffee awards can be a valuable tool, indicating exceptional flavor profiles and meticulous roasting processes. However, even amongst award winners, finding the ideal balance of quality, taste, and value for your specific palate and equipment requires careful consideration.
This review explores the significance of choosing the best award winning espresso beans and provides insights to guide your next purchase. —
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 10 Best Award Winning Espresso Beans Compared

🏆 BEST OVERALL Goshen Coffee Roasters Whole Bean Old School Tattoo House Blend | Medium Roast
- Freshly roasted and packaged for optimal flavor.
- Bright and bold flavor profile suitable for everyday drinking.
- Award-winning flavor profile suggests high quality.
- Energy-efficient roasting process.
4.3/5
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🥈 2ND RUNNER UP Lavazza Super Crema Whole Bean Coffee
- Large 2.2 lb bag offers good value for frequent coffee drinkers.
- Blend of Arabica and Robusta provides a balanced flavor profile.
- Medium roast suitable for a wide range of palates.
- Clearly intended for espresso preparation.
4.7/5
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� BEST VALUE Lavazza Espresso Barista Gran Crema Whole Bean Coffee Blend
- Large 2.2lb bag offers good value.
- Dark roast provides a strong and bold flavor.
- Full-bodied taste with pleasant honey and roasted coffee notes.
- Well-suited for espresso machines.
4.6/5
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Lavazza Espresso Whole Bean Coffee
- Versatile brewing options (espresso, moka pot, drip, French press).
- Balanced medium roast with sweet and aromatic notes.
- 100% Arabica blend.
- Simple ingredient list (only coffee).
4.6/5
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Starbucks Whole Bean Coffee
- Classic dark roast with rich molasses and caramel notes.
- Can be used with various brewing methods.
- Ethically sourced coffee beans.
- Good quantity (18 ounces).
4.4/5
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Gaviña Old Havana Espresso Whole Bean Coffee – Medium-Dark Roast
- Delivers a classic Cuban-style espresso flavor profile (nutty, sweet, citrus)
- Whole bean for optimal freshness
- Suitable for various brewing methods (espresso machines, Moka pots)
- Packaged in a zero-waste-to-landfill facility, demonstrating environmental consciousness
4.8/5
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Organic Espresso, Certified Fair Trade Organic Coffee
- Medium-plus roast suitable for a variety of brewing methods.
- Certified fair trade and organic, ensuring ethical sourcing and production.
- Whole bean allows for maximum freshness and control over grind size.
- Roasted fresh to order, promising optimal flavor.
4.5/5
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Costa Rican Coffee Dark Roast Whole Bean (1
- Full-bodied flavor with notes of fruit, chocolate, and citrus.
- Balanced acidity and creamy, long-lasting aftertaste.
- Freshly roasted and packaged to maintain freshness.
- SCA certification indicates high quality and adherence to standards.
4.7/5
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Blue Bottle Whole Bean Organic Coffee
- Rich and full-bodied flavor, ideal for espresso
- Certified organic and sustainably sourced beans
- Dark roast develops chocolatey notes
- Suitable for pairing with milk
4.5/5
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Lavazza Espresso Whole Bean Coffee
- Balanced medium roast with floral and fruity notes.
- Versatile for various brewing methods.
- 100% Arabica blend.
- Large 2.2 lb bag offers good value.
4.6/5
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Detailed Reviews of the Best Award Winning Espresso Beans
Goshen Coffee Roasters Whole Bean Old School Tattoo House Blend | Medium Roast – Freshly roasted and packaged for optimal flavor.
This whole bean coffee from Goshen Coffee arrives fresh, roasted and packaged within a day, promising optimal flavor. The ‘Old School Tattoo House Blend’ is described as a bright and bold blend, aiming for a timeless taste. The company highlights its award-winning flavor, claiming ethical sourcing and expertly crafted blends.
Their roasting process emphasizes energy efficiency, using a hybrid air and drum method to recycle hot air. Each batch undergoes careful monitoring, color evaluation, and taste testing to maintain quality control. While the coffee aims for a premium experience, potential buyers should note that the ‘good sh*t energy’ slogan might not appeal to everyone.
Overall, the description suggests a focus on freshness, quality, and ethical practices.
Pros
- Freshly roasted and packaged for optimal flavor.
- Bright and bold flavor profile suitable for everyday drinking.
- Award-winning flavor profile suggests high quality.
- Energy-efficient roasting process.
- Careful quality control measures implemented.
- Ethically sourced coffee beans.
Cons
- The marketing slogan might not appeal to all consumers.
- Price point might be higher compared to other coffee brands due to its focus on quality and ethical sourcing.
Lavazza Super Crema Whole Bean Coffee – Large 2.2 lb bag offers good value for frequent coffee drinkers.
The Lavazza Super Crema whole bean coffee is presented as an espresso-focused blend. The 2.2 lb bag provides a decent quantity for regular espresso drinkers. It’s a medium roast blend of Arabica and Robusta beans, promising a full-bodied flavor and creamy finish.
The sourcing from 15 different countries suggests a complex profile, although the specific notes are not detailed in the description. The provided brewing guide offers a starting point for espresso preparation, but individual adjustments may be necessary based on equipment and personal taste. The ingredient list confirms it contains only coffee, which is reassuring for those seeking a pure product.
Pros
- Large 2.2 lb bag offers good value for frequent coffee drinkers.
- Blend of Arabica and Robusta provides a balanced flavor profile.
- Medium roast suitable for a wide range of palates.
- Clearly intended for espresso preparation.
- Sourced from 15 countries, potentially offering a complex flavor.
- Simple ingredient list (100% coffee)
Cons
- Description lacks specific flavor notes, making it difficult to anticipate the taste.
- Robusta content might not appeal to those seeking exclusively Arabica espresso.
Lavazza Espresso Barista Gran Crema Whole Bean Coffee Blend – Large 2.2lb bag offers good value.
The Lavazza Espresso Barista Gran Crema offers a convenient way to enjoy a dark roast coffee at home. The 2.2lb bag provides a substantial supply. With an intensity of 7/10, it delivers a noticeable but not overpowering strength.
The blend of Arabica and Robusta beans creates a full-bodied flavor profile, accompanied by aromatic notes of honey and roasted coffee. While versatile, this blend is specifically designed for use in espresso machines, which might limit its appeal for those using other brewing methods. The taste, as described, is quite pleasant and robust, a solid choice for espresso lovers.
The overall quality seems good, consistent with Lavazza’s reputation.
Pros
- Large 2.2lb bag offers good value.
- Dark roast provides a strong and bold flavor.
- Full-bodied taste with pleasant honey and roasted coffee notes.
- Well-suited for espresso machines.
- Arabica and Robusta blend ensures a balanced profile.
Cons
- Specifically designed for espresso machines; may not be ideal for other brewing methods.
- Dark roast might be too intense for those preferring milder coffees.
Lavazza Espresso Whole Bean Coffee – Versatile brewing options (espresso, moka pot, drip, French press).
The Lavazza Espresso whole bean coffee offers a convenient option for those seeking a versatile coffee suitable for various brewing methods. With a medium roast and a 5/10 intensity, it provides a balanced flavor profile leaning towards sweet and aromatic notes. The 100% Arabica blend, sourced from South America and Africa, promises a good quality bean.
Users can expect floral and fruity aromatic notes. It’s suitable for espresso machines, moka pots, drip coffee machines, and French presses. The simple ingredient list, containing only coffee, is reassuring for purists.
Lavazza’s long history in the coffee industry lends credibility to the product, suggesting a commitment to quality and sustainable sourcing.
Pros
- Versatile brewing options (espresso, moka pot, drip, French press).
- Balanced medium roast with sweet and aromatic notes.
- 100% Arabica blend.
- Simple ingredient list (only coffee).
- Reputable brand with a long history.
Cons
- Intensity might be too mild for those who prefer a strong espresso.
- Flavor profile (floral and fruit) may not appeal to all coffee drinkers.
Starbucks Whole Bean Coffee – Classic dark roast with rich molasses and caramel notes.
The Starbucks Espresso Roast whole bean coffee offers a convenient way to enjoy a dark roast coffee at home. The 18-ounce bag provides a good quantity for regular coffee drinkers. The coffee is described as having notes of rich molasses and caramel, which is typical of a dark roast.
The fact that Starbucks adheres to high quality standards and ethically sources their beans is a definite plus. While primarily intended for espresso, the beans can be ground for various brewing methods, offering versatility. Overall, this seems like a solid choice for those who prefer a dark, robust coffee with a well-known brand reputation.
Pros
- Classic dark roast with rich molasses and caramel notes.
- Can be used with various brewing methods.
- Ethically sourced coffee beans.
- Good quantity (18 ounces).
- Consistent quality from a reputable brand.
Cons
- Dark roast flavor profile might not appeal to everyone.
- Requires grinding before brewing.
Gaviña Old Havana Espresso Whole Bean Coffee – Medium-Dark Roast – Delivers a classic Cuban-style espresso flavor profile (nutty, sweet, citrus)
This whole bean coffee aims to deliver a classic Cuban-style espresso experience, emphasizing nutty and sweet notes with subtle citrus hints and a smooth finish. The beans are designed for versatility, suitable for espresso machines, Moka pots, and other brewing methods. The company highlights its commitment to sustainability through its Direct Impact Initiative and zero-waste-to-landfill facility in Los Angeles, which is a definite plus.
While the description promises a bold flavor, individual preferences will ultimately determine if it aligns with expectations. The coffee is clearly intended for those seeking a traditional espresso profile and appreciate ethically sourced products. Roasting and packing take place in Los Angeles.
Pros
- Delivers a classic Cuban-style espresso flavor profile (nutty, sweet, citrus)
- Whole bean for optimal freshness
- Suitable for various brewing methods (espresso machines, Moka pots)
- Packaged in a zero-waste-to-landfill facility, demonstrating environmental consciousness
Cons
- Flavor profile is specifically geared towards a traditional Cuban espresso style, which may not appeal to all palates.
- The ‘Direct Impact Initiative’ is not clearly defined, making it difficult to assess the extent of its impact.
Organic Espresso, Certified Fair Trade Organic Coffee – Medium-plus roast suitable for a variety of brewing methods.
This coffee is a medium-plus roast, whole bean coffee that is certified fair trade and organic, which are definite pluses for ethically conscious consumers. The description highlights a velvety, sweet, and pleasant taste profile. The beans are also roasted fresh to order, indicating a focus on freshness and quality.
While the taste is subjective, the descriptions provide a good indication of what to expect. Roasting to order may introduce a slight delay in shipping, which is something to consider when purchasing. Overall, it appears to be a decent coffee option, especially if you value fair trade practices and organic certification.
Pros
- Medium-plus roast suitable for a variety of brewing methods.
- Certified fair trade and organic, ensuring ethical sourcing and production.
- Whole bean allows for maximum freshness and control over grind size.
- Roasted fresh to order, promising optimal flavor.
- Described as velvety, sweet, and pleasant, suggesting a balanced flavor profile.
Cons
- Flavor profile is subjective; taste may not match everyone’s preferences.
- Fresh roasting to order may lead to slightly longer shipping times.
Costa Rican Coffee Dark Roast Whole Bean (1 – Full-bodied flavor with notes of fruit, chocolate, and citrus.
This Costa Rican Dark Roast coffee from El Gusto promises a rich and flavorful experience. The description highlights its unique characteristics, attributed to Costa Rica’s ideal coffee-growing conditions, including volcanic soil and consistent weather patterns. The coffee is described as full-bodied with balanced acidity, offering notes of fruit, chocolate, and citrus.
It emphasizes the freshness, mentioning hand-picked beans, careful roasting, and packaging in triple-layer aluminum bags with valves. The product also boasts an award-winning flavor, certified by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA). It seems the company is confident in their product, offering customer support if not satisfied with the purchase.
Overall, this coffee presents itself as a high-quality option for dark roast enthusiasts.
Pros
- Full-bodied flavor with notes of fruit, chocolate, and citrus.
- Balanced acidity and creamy, long-lasting aftertaste.
- Freshly roasted and packaged to maintain freshness.
- SCA certification indicates high quality and adherence to standards.
- Made from 100% Arabica beans grown in Costa Rica.
- Customer satisfaction guarantee.
Cons
- Dark roast may be too intense for those preferring milder coffees.
- Claims of ‘heavenly aroma’ and ‘extraordinarily sweet flavor’ may be subjective and require individual assessment.
Blue Bottle Whole Bean Organic Coffee – Rich and full-bodied flavor, ideal for espresso
Blue Bottle Coffee’s Espresso Blend is a 12 oz. bag of whole bean, organic coffee designed for espresso lovers. The darker roast aims to deliver a potent shot with a bold, sweet, and chocolatey flavor profile, which is intended to pair well with milk.
The beans are sourced from Latin America and Central Africa and are certified organic, emphasizing traceability and sustainability. Roasted in small batches, this blend is aimed at those who appreciate rich and expressive coffees. While the description highlights the chocolatey notes, individual taste preferences may vary.
The availability of other Blue Bottle Coffee blends allows consumers to explore different flavor profiles.
Pros
- Rich and full-bodied flavor, ideal for espresso
- Certified organic and sustainably sourced beans
- Dark roast develops chocolatey notes
- Suitable for pairing with milk
- Small batch roasting ensures freshness
Cons
- Darker roast may not appeal to all coffee drinkers
- Price point might be higher compared to other coffee brands
Lavazza Espresso Whole Bean Coffee – Balanced medium roast with floral and fruity notes.
Lavazza Espresso Whole Bean Coffee offers a balanced experience with its medium roast and 5/10 intensity. The 100% Arabica blend, sourced from South America and Africa, delivers a fragrant cup with noticeable floral and fruity aromatic notes. This coffee is versatile, suitable for various brewing methods including espresso machines, moka pots, drip coffee machines, and French presses.
The 2.2 lb bag provides a substantial supply for regular coffee drinkers. The straightforward ingredient list, containing only coffee, is reassuring for those seeking a pure coffee experience. It’s a solid choice for everyday use, providing a consistent and enjoyable flavor profile.
Pros
- Balanced medium roast with floral and fruity notes.
- Versatile for various brewing methods.
- 100% Arabica blend.
- Large 2.2 lb bag offers good value.
- Simple ingredient list – only coffee.
Cons
- Intensity level might be too mild for those preferring a strong, bold flavor.
- Aromatic notes might be subtle for some palates.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Award Winning Espresso Beans
Understanding Award-Winning Espresso Beans
When searching for the best award winning espresso beans, it’s crucial to understand what constitutes an “award-winning” title. These beans have typically been recognized by industry experts and organizations for their exceptional quality, flavor profile, and roasting techniques. Awards often indicate that the beans have undergone rigorous testing and evaluation, ensuring a superior coffee experience. Look for beans with certifications from reputable coffee associations.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Espresso Beans
Several factors contribute to the overall quality of espresso beans. Roast level is important; medium to dark roasts are common for espresso, offering a balance of acidity and body. Bean origin plays a significant role, with different regions producing distinct flavor profiles. Consider your preferred taste: nutty, chocolatey, fruity, or floral. Also, check for freshness; whole beans that are recently roasted will provide the best award winning espresso beans experience.
Roast Level and Flavor Profiles
The roast level significantly impacts the flavor of your espresso. Light roasts retain more acidity and delicate flavors, while dark roasts develop bolder, more intense flavors with notes of chocolate and caramel. Medium roasts offer a balanced profile. For best award winning espresso beans, consider a medium-dark roast. Understanding your roast preference will help you narrow down your options and find the perfect bean for your palate.
Bean Origin and Blends
Single-origin beans highlight the unique characteristics of a specific region, offering a distinct and nuanced flavor experience. Blends combine beans from multiple origins to create a more complex and balanced flavor profile. Some blends are created to specifically make the best award winning espresso beans. Explore different origins and blends to discover your preferred flavor profile. Consider trying beans from regions known for their exceptional coffee, such as Ethiopia, Colombia, and Costa Rica.
Freshness and Packaging
Freshness is paramount when it comes to espresso beans. Look for beans that have been recently roasted and are packaged in airtight, opaque bags with a one-way valve to release CO2 without letting oxygen in. Check the roast date to ensure optimal freshness. Storing your best award winning espresso beans in a cool, dark, and dry place will help preserve their flavor and aroma.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Award Winning Espresso Beans
How do I know if espresso beans are truly “award-winning?”
Look for specific award names or certifications from reputable organizations within the coffee industry, such as the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) or Coffee Review. The specific awards or certifications should be prominently displayed on the packaging or in the product description. Research the awarding body to ensure its credibility and standards. Winning awards means the coffee has been assessed to have the best award winning espresso beans. Don’t solely rely on the term “award-winning” without further verification.
What’s the difference between single-origin and blended espresso beans?
Single-origin beans come from a specific region or farm, showcasing the unique characteristics of that terroir. Blends combine beans from multiple origins to create a more complex and balanced flavor profile. Single-origin beans provide a more nuanced and specific taste, while blends offer consistency and complexity. The best award winning espresso beans can be either single-origin or a blend. Experiment to find your preference.
What roast level is best for espresso?
Medium to dark roasts are generally preferred for espresso. Medium roasts offer a balance of acidity and body, while dark roasts provide a bolder, more intense flavor with notes of chocolate and caramel. Light roasts can be used for espresso, but they may be more challenging to extract properly. Ultimately, the ideal roast level depends on your personal preference.
How important is freshness when buying espresso beans?
Freshness is crucial for optimal flavor. Espresso beans release CO2 after roasting, which can negatively impact the flavor if they are not degassed properly. Look for beans that have been recently roasted and are packaged in airtight bags with a one-way valve. Use the best award winning espresso beans within a few weeks of roasting for the best results.
Can I use any coffee beans for espresso?
While you can technically use any coffee beans for espresso, some beans are better suited for it than others. Beans specifically labeled as “espresso beans” are typically roasted and blended to produce a rich, concentrated flavor that is ideal for espresso extraction. Using the best award winning espresso beans labeled as such will generally yield better results.
How should I store my espresso beans to maintain freshness?
Store your espresso beans in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator or freezer, as this can cause condensation and degrade the flavor. Keep them away from direct sunlight and heat. Properly stored, the best award winning espresso beans will retain their freshness and flavor for longer.
What grind size should I use for espresso?
Espresso requires a very fine grind to ensure proper extraction. The ideal grind size should be similar to that of table salt. Using a burr grinder is recommended for consistent and precise grinding. Experiment with different grind sizes to find the sweet spot for your espresso machine and beans.
Are ethically sourced espresso beans worth the extra cost?
Ethically sourced beans, such as those certified Fair Trade or organic, ensure that farmers and workers are paid fair wages and that sustainable farming practices are used. Choosing ethically sourced beans supports a more equitable and environmentally responsible coffee industry. It is very important to consider where your best award winning espresso beans are coming from.
How do I choose between Arabica and Robusta beans for espresso?
Arabica beans are known for their smooth, aromatic flavor with notes of fruit, chocolate, and floral. Robusta beans are bolder and more bitter, with a higher caffeine content. Blends of Arabica and Robusta can offer a balanced flavor profile. Arabica beans are often considered to make the best award winning espresso beans. Your choice depends on your preference for flavor and caffeine level.
What other equipment do I need to make good espresso at home?
Besides high-quality espresso beans, you’ll need an espresso machine, a burr grinder, a tamper, and a milk frother (if you enjoy milk-based espresso drinks). A kitchen scale is also helpful for measuring precise amounts of beans and water. Investing in quality equipment will significantly improve your espresso-making experience.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
Goshen Coffee Roasters Whole Bean Old School Tattoo House Blend | Medium Roast‘s ‘Old School Tattoo House Blend’ seems to be a good choice for those seeking a fresh, flavorful, and ethically sourced coffee experience. If you appreciate quality and don’t mind a potentially higher price, this coffee is worth considering.