Espresso Beans

Colipse espresso beans offer an authentic Italian experience with smooth flavor, rich aroma, and a velvety crema. Available in different roast profiles, these expertly curated beans are exclusively sourced from specialty coffee farms in the U.S. and roasted to order for ultimate freshness. Crafted from 100% Arabica beans, they capture the essence of traditional Sicilian espresso, allowing you to enjoy artisan-quality espresso at home. Experience flavors that are pleasant and welcoming, never harsh or bitter.

What Are Espresso Beans?

Espresso beans are whole coffee beans roasted to a medium-dark or dark level, finely ground, and brewed under high pressure to produce a concentrated coffee known as espresso. Technically, any coffee bean can be used to make espresso. However, 'espresso beans' typically refers to coffee that is specifically labeled and blended for optimal espresso brewing. The main difference between 'espresso beans' and 'espresso roast' lies in their meaning: 'espresso beans' refers to coffee marketed for espresso, while 'espresso roast' describes the dark roasting method used to develop the deep, rich flavors ideal for espresso.

What Is the Difference Between Espresso Beans and Coffee Beans?

While any coffee bean can technically be used for espresso, the primary difference between what's labeled as 'espresso beans' and 'coffee beans' often lies in the roast level, brewing method, and intended flavor profile. Espresso beans are typically roasted darker, ground finely, and brewed under pressure to deliver a bold, full-bodied flavor. Coffee beans, on the other hand, encompass a wider range of roasts and brewing methods, from light roasts for drip coffee to coarse grinds for cold brew.

In terms of origin, size, or bean type, there is no inherent difference between espresso beans and coffee beans. However, roasters often source beans from specific regions to achieve the desired flavor profile for their espresso blends.

Can You Use Coffee Beans for Espresso?

Yes, you can use coffee beans for making espresso as any coffee bean can be used with any brewing method. You can grind regular coffee beans to a medium-fine or fine texture for an espresso-style drink, but the flavor may differ from what you'd get with beans specifically roasted for espresso. Regular medium roast coffee beans often yield a less intense flavor. They may also struggle to withstand the high pressure of espresso brewing. Using medium-dark to dark roast espresso beans typically produces results closer to traditional Italian espresso, but experimenting with different beans and roasts can lead to enjoyable variations.

How to Choose the Best Espresso Beans?

To choose the best espresso beans follow these six steps below.

  1. Understand Bean Varieties and Roasts: Learn about Arabica and Robusta beans and their different characteristics. Arabica is aromatic with subtle flavors, while Robusta adds body and higher caffeine content.
  2. Avoid Light and Very Dark Roasts: Light roasts tend to be too grassy and sour for traditional espresso, while very dark roasts may taste burnt and overpower the coffee's complexity.
  3. Choose Medium to Moderately Dark Roasts: These roasts provide the balance of flavor, body, and crema associated with good espresso.
  4. Look Beyond "Espresso Beans" Labels: Espresso is a brewing method, not a specific type of bean. Beans labeled for espresso can be used for other brewing methods.
  5. Blended Beans Are Ideal: A mix of different coffee bean varietals creates complexity, balancing aroma, flavor, and body—preferred by Italian espresso traditions.
  6. Consider Freshness: Look for a roast date on the bag. Beans are best between five and ten days post-roast. Avoid beans without air valves to release gasses.

How Much Are Espresso Beans?

The price of espresso beans varies based on quality and sourcing. Espresso beans sold in 2 to 5 lb bags in grocery stores for under $15 are a good value but have limited transparency, an unknown roasting date, and mediocre freshness. Specialty espresso beans packaged in 12-ounce bags that cost $15-$35 are more expensive but provide traceability, details about where and how the beans are grown, and more nuanced flavors. High-end espresso beans priced between $35-$60 come from rare micro-lots, are typically competition- and award-winning, and are often single varietals, emphasizing unique flavors.

Colipse offers premium specialty espresso beans available in 12-oz bags for $22.50, including free shipping to all United States for all orders with no minimum order.

How to Properly Store Espresso Beans?

To properly store espresso beans and maintain freshness, follow these best practices listed below.

  • Use Airtight Storage: Use vacuum-sealed containers, such as Fellow Atmos or Airscape canisters, to minimize air exposure.
  • Consider Freezing for Longevity: For beans that won't be used within 1-4 weeks, store them in the freezer. Divide them into batch sizes and freeze airtight to prevent oxidation.
  • Degassing Before Freezing: Wait 7-14 days after roasting for the beans to degas before freezing, especially for espresso.
  • Thawing Not Necessary: You can grind frozen beans directly without thawing, which preserves freshness.
  • Avoid Light and Moisture: Keep beans in a cool, dark, and dry environment to prevent degradation.

How Long Do Espresso Beans Last?

Unopened espresso beans stay fresh for up to 12 months when stored in a cool, dark, dry place with airtight containers using a vacuum or one-way valve. Once opened, espresso beans remain peak freshness for 1-4 weeks. Although safe to consume afterward, their flavor will slowly start to diminish.