What are the Best Coffee Beans for Espresso?

Brewing coffee should be straightforward: just add water, right? Although you only need two ingredients—ground coffee and water—to make a cup, there are countless brewing methods to explore. You can press coffee using an Aeropress or a French press, or try a classic approach with a stovetop Moka pot. Some even experiment with unique techniques like Turkish coffee using a cezve ibrik.

Today, however, we are focusing specifically on espresso. There are several factors to consider when pulling a shot, so this blog will cover the essentials: what constitutes an espresso, important considerations for brewing, and how to choose the right coffee beans.

What is Espresso?

Espresso brewing originated in early 20th century Italy, where the first steam-powered coffee makers were developed, laying the groundwork for modern espresso machines. The term “espresso” derives from the Italian phrase “caffe espresso,” meaning “pressed-out coffee,” which refers to the method of forcing water through a bed of coffee grounds.

It’s essential to note that espresso is defined by the brewing method rather than a specific type of coffee bean or its appearance. For example, brewing a strong, 2oz cup of coffee using a different method with beans labeled as “espresso” would not qualify as espresso. The key differentiator in making espresso is the pressure applied during the brewing process. In essence, espresso is any coffee made using an espresso machine.

Characteristics of Espresso

While every coffee shop may have its own approach to brewing espresso, several key traits define a high-quality shot of espresso:

• Size: Espresso shots are typically small, averaging around 1-2 ounces of liquid. Although you could technically brew a larger volume, it would compromise the flavor and quality of the espresso, making it unappealing.
• Strength: Espresso is significantly more concentrated than drip coffee. In a standard cup of drip coffee, only about 1.5% of its mass consists of dissolved coffee solids, with the remainder being water. In contrast, around 10% of an espresso shot is pure coffee, resulting in a much bolder beverage.
• Crema: One of the most recognizable features of a good espresso is its foam, known as crema. This golden-brown layer forms as a result of the high pressure used during brewing, which causes some of the coffee’s oil molecules to emulsify with microscopic air bubbles. The crema adds a creamy texture and rich flavor, enhancing the overall espresso experience.

What to Consider When Making Espresso

Brewing espresso can seem daunting, especially with the ongoing quest for the perfect “god shot” discussed across various coffee forums and showcased in elaborate TikTok videos. However, crafting excellent espresso doesn’t have to be overly complicated. Here are some essential considerations to keep in mind:

1. Invest in a Quality Burr Grinder: A reliable burr grinder is crucial for achieving the fine grind required for espresso. A good grinder will ensure even extraction, while a subpar one may lead to quick shots that fail to develop the desired flavors.
2. Opt for a Semi-Automatic Machine: Choosing a semi-automatic espresso machine gives you greater control over the brewing process. This flexibility allows you to fine-tune your shots for better results.
3. Use a Scale for Precision: Espresso brewing demands accuracy, and visual cues alone can be misleading. A scale that measures to a tenth of a gram can help you achieve consistent results with each shot.
4. Start with a 1:2 Coffee-to-Water Ratio: A good starting point is to use a 1:2 ratio, meaning for every gram of ground coffee, you should aim to extract double that weight in liquid espresso. From here, you can adjust based on your taste preferences.
5. Select the Right Coffee: Perhaps the most critical factor is the type of coffee you use. Choosing high-quality beans suited for espresso can significantly influence the flavor and overall experience of your brew.

How to Choose Coffees for Espresso

You may have noticed coffee bags at the store labeled “espresso blend” or “espresso roast.” However, it’s important to understand that you aren’t limited to these specific labels when brewing espresso. As previously mentioned, espresso is defined by the brewing method, meaning any coffee bean can be used. That said, some coffees are naturally more suited for espresso brewing, depending on your preferred flavor profiles.

Know the Roast Profile

Generally, more developed roasts are easier to extract flavors from. While light roasts can make for a delightful espresso, they can also be challenging to brew. Light roasts typically offer brighter, more aromatic flavors but may lack body and mouthfeel.

In contrast, dark roasts yield a rich and luxurious texture but can often taste overly bitter, making them less enjoyable without the addition of milk.

For a great, reliable espresso, we recommend a medium roast. This option strikes a balance, providing a sweet, expressive, and complex flavor profile with a pleasant, silky mouthfeel and minimal bitterness. Our Downtown Blend is a popular choice and consistently delivers excellent espresso.

Pay Attention to Origin

Coffee origins play a crucial role in flavor. Regions like Ethiopia, Kenya, Ecuador, and Panama are known for producing delicate, complex, and fruit-forward coffees. While these can be exceptional when brewed as filter coffee, their flavors may not always translate well to espresso.

For beginners, we suggest starting with coffees from South America, such as Peru Las Damas, or from Indonesia, like Indonesia Sumatra, as they tend to work better for espresso.

Check the Roast Date

A common misconception is that fresher coffee is always better, especially for espresso. Brewing espresso immediately after roasting can result in shots that taste unbalanced, bitter, and astringent. Coffee meant for espresso needs time to rest and mellow, ideally at least 10 days post-roast, though a minimum of 5 days is necessary.

That said, coffee that is too old will also lose its flavor. Aim to consume your coffee within a month of roasting for optimal taste.

Lastly, don’t hesitate to explore a variety of coffees! Ultimately, your personal taste is the most important factor in finding the best coffee beans for your ideal shot of espresso. You might discover that a floral, light-roasted Ethiopian coffee aligns perfectly with your preferences—but you won’t know until you try!