Classic espresso
Look for chocolate, caramel, nuts and round body.
Espresso
Coffee beans for espresso and moka pot
Espresso does not have to taste burnt or bitter. The right Guatemalan coffee can bring body and sweetness while staying clean and balanced.
Short answer
Good espresso beans have sweetness, body and a profile that works under concentration. Balanced washed coffees or honey-processed Guatemalan coffees can often work better than very dark roasts.
Moka pot
Choose sweet coffee and avoid too fine a grind or too much heat.
Milk drinks
Body and sweetness help cappuccino and latte taste more clearly of coffee.
What should you look for?
- •Process: washed for clarity, honey/natural for more fruit and body.
- •Roast: balance matters more than simply going dark.
- •Grind: espresso needs adjustment; moka pot needs a little more openness.
Espresso bean FAQ
Which coffee beans are best for espresso?
Beans with sweetness, body and low bitterness are often best. Chocolate, caramel and ripe fruit notes work well.
Does espresso have to be dark roasted?
No. Dark roasts can bring strength, but too much roast flavour can hide quality.
Can Guatemalan coffee be used for espresso?
Yes. Guatemala often brings balance, sweetness and structure that works very well for espresso.