
A Guide to Choosing the Best Coffee for Espresso
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Index
Roast Level
Medium to Dark Roasts are the go-to choices for espresso due to their balanced flavor profiles and lower acidity.
Here’s a closer look:
- Medium Roast: These beans retain more of the bean’s original flavors while beginning to develop a balance of acidity and body. Expect a mix of acidity and caramel-like sweetness.
- Dark Roast: Ideal for those who love rich, bold flavors with low acidity. Dark roasts typically have notes of chocolate, caramel, and toasted nuts, making them perfect for a classic espresso profile.
Bean Origin
The origin of the coffee bean significantly influences its flavor profile. Here are some popular regions for espresso beans:
- Ethiopian: Known for their complex, fruity, and floral notes. These beans are often bright and aromatic, adding a unique depth to your espresso.
- Brazilian: These beans offer nutty, chocolatey flavors and low acidity, contributing to a smooth and sweet espresso.
- Colombian: Balanced with a mix of fruity and nutty flavors, medium acidity, and a smooth finish, Colombian beans provide a well-rounded espresso experience.
- Sumatran: Characterized by earthy, spicy, and herbal notes. These beans are full-bodied with low acidity, ideal for those who prefer a robust espresso.

Blend
Deciding between single-origin beans and blends can affect your espresso’s complexity and balance:
- Single-Origin: Beans from a specific region provide distinct and unique flavor profiles. They tend to be more acidic and complex, offering a unique espresso experience.
- Blends: Combining beans from different regions creates a balanced flavor profile, consistency, and complexity. Blends are ideal for achieving a harmonious espresso with a rich crema.
Freshness
Freshly roasted coffee is crucial for a great espresso:
- Freshly Roasted: For optimal flavor, consume coffee within 2-4 weeks of roasting. Always check for roast dates rather than expiration dates.
- Proper Storage: To maintain freshness, store your beans in a cool, dark place in an airtight container.
Our Top Espresso Picks from the Haverhill Collection
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Jazz Fusion Roast – Single-Origin Peruvian (Medium Roast)
A vibrant roast featuring citrus and chocolate notes, complemented by a clean, floral finish. Ideal for those who enjoy a bright and balanced espresso. -
Latin Soul Roast – Single-Origin Honduran (Medium-Dark Roast)
This roast offers a rich profile with chocolatey, nutty, buttery, and fruity flavors, along with subtle floral notes. Perfect for a smooth and complex espresso experience. -
Post-Rock Roast – Single-Origin Sumatran (Dark Roast)
A bold and deep roast characterized by walnut, toffee, leather, and dried plum flavors. Suited for those who prefer a robust and intense espresso. -
Smooth Jazz Roast – Single-Origin Peruvian Decaf (Organic, SWP)
For a decaffeinated option, this roast delivers milk chocolate, caramel, and toasted nuts flavors, providing a mellow and satisfying espresso without the caffeine.
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