10 Best Beans For Espresso Shots: Rich Flavors Now

What are the best beans for espresso shots? We’re offering a curated list of 10 top beans to deliver a rich and flavorful espresso experience tailored for everyday enjoyment.

Are you seeking the ultimate espresso experience? Do you desire a rich and flavorful shot every time? You have come to the right place!

Finding the perfect bean can be hard. Let’s make it easy.

Many people struggle to find the right beans for their espresso. They crave the perfect balance. Let’s discover how to make delicious espresso today.

List of Top 10 Beans For Espresso Shots

Image Title Best For Price
Lavazza Super Crema Whole Bean Coffee, Medium Espresso Roast, Arabica and Robusta Blend, 2.2 lb Bag, Package May Vary (Pack of 1) Lavazza Super Crema Whole Bean Coffee, Medium Espresso Roast, Arabica and Robusta Blend, 2.2 lb Bag, Package May Vary (Pack of 1)

This is perfect for espresso lovers who want a bold, creamy cup and for home baristas who use whole beans and a grinder. It also suits anyone who wants a consistent medium roast from a trusted Arabica‑Robusta blend and an easy single‑shot brewing guide.

Lavazza Espresso Barista Gran Crema Whole Bean Coffee Blend, Medium Espresso Roast, Oz Bag (Packaging May Vary) - 2.2 LB, 35.2 Ounce Lavazza Espresso Barista Gran Crema Whole Bean Coffee Blend, Medium Espresso Roast, Oz Bag (Packaging May Vary) – 2.2 LB, 35.2 Ounce

This Lavazza Espresso Barista Gran Crema whole bean coffee blend is perfect for coffee fans who love a full-bodied espresso with honey notes. It’s ideal for anyone using an espresso machine to make rich, smooth drinks at home or in a cafe.

Starbucks Whole Bean Coffee, Dark Roast Coffee, Espresso Roast, 100% Arabica, 1 bag (18 oz) Starbucks Whole Bean Coffee, Dark Roast Coffee, Espresso Roast, 100% Arabica, 1 bag (18 oz)

This is perfect for coffee lovers who want a bold, rich cup and for espresso fans who like deep molasses and caramel notes. It also fits home baristas who grind beans for drip, press, pour-over, or moka pot and care about ethically sourced 100% Arabica beans.

Gaviña Old Havana Espresso Whole Bean Coffee – Medium-Dark Roast, 100% Arabica, Nutty and Sweet Flavor, Great for Espresso Machines and Moka Pots, 32 oz Bag Gaviña Old Havana Espresso Whole Bean Coffee – Medium-Dark Roast, 100% Arabica, Nutty and Sweet Flavor, Great for Espresso Machines and Moka Pots, 32 oz Bag

Craving that perfect espresso? This is it. Gaviña Old Havana Espresso is perfect for anyone who loves a rich, nutty, and sweet coffee experience.

Lavazza Espresso Whole Bean Coffee, Medium Roast, 100% Arabica, 2.2 lb Bag (Pack of 1) Lavazza Espresso Whole Bean Coffee, Medium Roast, 100% Arabica, 2.2 lb Bag (Pack of 1)

This Lavazza Espresso is perfect for coffee fans who love a balanced, fruity flavor in their brew. It’s great for home espresso, drip coffee, or French press users seeking pure Arabica joy.

Blue Bottle Whole Bean Organic Coffee, Espresso, Dark Roast, 12 Ounce bag (Pack of 1) Blue Bottle Whole Bean Organic Coffee, Espresso, Dark Roast, 12 Ounce bag (Pack of 1)

Craving a rich, intense espresso? This Blue Bottle blend is perfect for anyone who wants a bold, chocolatey kick in their cup. If you love premium, organic coffee that tastes amazing with milk, this is your new go-to.

Death Wish Coffee, Whole Bean Espresso Roast - Organic, Fair Trade, Arabica and Robusta Coffee Beans, 14 ounce (Pack of 1) Death Wish Coffee, Whole Bean Espresso Roast – Organic, Fair Trade, Arabica and Robusta Coffee Beans, 14 ounce (Pack of 1)

Death Wish Coffee Espresso Roast is perfect for people who love a really strong, bold cup of coffee every day. It fits anyone who wants to make smooth, rich espresso at home with high-quality, fair trade beans.

Ethical Bean Fairtrade Organic Coffee, Sweet Espresso Medium Dark Roast, Ground Coffee Beans - 100% Arabica Coffee (8 oz Bag), 0.5 Pound (Pack of 1) Ethical Bean Fairtrade Organic Coffee, Sweet Espresso Medium Dark Roast, Ground Coffee Beans – 100% Arabica Coffee (8 oz Bag), 0.5 Pound (Pack of 1)

This coffee is perfect for ethical coffee lovers who care about fair trade and organic beans. It suits home baristas who want a bold Sweet Espresso roast that mixes well with milk.

Lavazza Espresso Whole Bean Coffee, Medium Roast, 100% Arabica, 2.2 lb Bag Lavazza Espresso Whole Bean Coffee, Medium Roast, 100% Arabica, 2.2 lb Bag

Love a sweet and aromatic coffee? Then Lavazza Espresso Whole Bean Coffee is for you! Perfect for anyone who enjoys a classic, flavorful cup made just the way they like it.

Lavazza Espresso Whole Bean for Automobili Lamborghini, Dark Roast, Arabica and Robusta Blend, 2.2 lb Bag (Package May Vary) Lavazza Espresso Whole Bean for Automobili Lamborghini, Dark Roast, Arabica and Robusta Blend, 2.2 lb Bag (Package May Vary)

This bold espresso blend is perfect for coffee lovers who enjoy strong, dark roasts in their daily espresso. It’s also great for Lamborghini fans who want a taste of the speed in every cup.

Detailed Reviews

Discover the top 10 beans for espresso shots picked with care from experts and happy users. Each one gets a full review on its flavor, how it brews, and why it’s worth it. Trust this guide to match you with the right coffee for your needs. Get ready for rich cups that make every morning better.

1. Lavazza Super Crema Whole Bean Coffee, Medium Espresso Roast, Arabica and Robusta Blend, 2.2 lb Bag, Package May Vary (Pack of 1)

Lavazza Super Crema Whole Bean Coffee, Medium Espresso Roast, Arabica and Robusta Blend, 2.2 lb Bag, Package May Vary (Pack of 1)

Lavazza Super Crema is a 2.2 lb bag of whole bean coffee for making great espresso. This medium roast from Arabica and Robusta beans offers a full-bodied taste.

The blend comes from 15 coffee-growing countries around the world. It is made with only coffee in special coffee-only facilities. Use 0.28 oz of ground espresso to make a 1 oz shot perfectly.

Grab this bold blend today. It creams up just right for your espresso needs. Enjoy the creamy finish every time.

Pros Cons
  • Super Crema is ideal for espresso lovers.
  • Enjoy a bold, creamy, and full-bodied taste.
  • Arabica and Robusta beans create a rich blend.
  • Perfect for making delicious espresso at home.
  • Just coffee: made in coffee-only facilities.
  • May be too strong for those who prefer milder coffee
  • Whole beans only — not handy if you need pre-ground
  • Package may vary, so label might look different than expected

Perfect For:

This is perfect for espresso lovers who want a bold, creamy cup and for home baristas who use whole beans and a grinder. It also suits anyone who wants a consistent medium roast from a trusted Arabica‑Robusta blend and an easy single‑shot brewing guide.

Ready to Purchase?

2. Lavazza Espresso Barista Gran Crema Whole Bean Coffee Blend, Medium Espresso Roast, Oz Bag (Packaging May Vary) – 2.2 LB, 35.2 Ounce

Lavazza Espresso Barista Gran Crema Whole Bean Coffee Blend, Medium Espresso Roast, Oz Bag (Packaging May Vary) - 2.2 LB, 35.2 Ounce

Wake up to rich, vitality-boosting coffee with Lavazza Espresso Barista Gran Crema. This medium dark roast blend delivers a strong, satisfying hit straight to your cup.
Enjoy the full-bodied flavor mixed from Arabica and Robusta beans. It features sweet honey notes and a roasted coffee aroma for real tasty joy. Use it in your espresso machine for the best brew every time.

Pros Cons
  • Enjoy a full-bodied taste that’s deeply satisfying.
  • Savor sweet honey and roasted coffee notes.
  • Ideal for your espresso machine.
  • Premium blend of Arabica and Robusta beans.
  • Large 2.2lb bag offers plenty of coffee.
  • Dark roast may taste bitter for some.
  • Best for espresso — not ideal for drip coffee.
  • Contains Robusta which can be stronger than Arabica.

Perfect For:

This Lavazza Espresso Barista Gran Crema whole bean coffee blend is perfect for coffee fans who love a full-bodied espresso with honey notes. It’s ideal for anyone using an espresso machine to make rich, smooth drinks at home or in a cafe.

Ready to Purchase?

3. Starbucks Whole Bean Coffee, Dark Roast Coffee, Espresso Roast, 100% Arabica, 1 bag (18 oz)

Starbucks Whole Bean Coffee, Dark Roast Coffee, Espresso Roast, 100% Arabica, 1 bag (18 oz)

Ready for amazing coffee? This is Starbucks Espresso Roast. Enjoy a dark roast at home.

Each bag has whole bean coffee. It is 100% Arabica. Taste rich molasses and caramel notes.

It is ethically sourced. You can grind it. Brew it your way for a tasty cup.

Pros Cons
  • Rich, bold flavor perfect for strong espresso.
  • 100% Arabica beans for a smooth, clean cup.
  • Freshly roasted taste like café coffee at home.
  • Works with any brew method you prefer.
  • Ethically sourced beans you can feel good about.
  • Requires grinding, adding an extra step.
  • Dark roast may be too intense for some.
  • Limited flavor descriptions beyond molasses and caramel.

Perfect For:

This is perfect for coffee lovers who want a bold, rich cup and for espresso fans who like deep molasses and caramel notes. It also fits home baristas who grind beans for drip, press, pour-over, or moka pot and care about ethically sourced 100% Arabica beans.

Ready to Purchase?

4. Gaviña Old Havana Espresso Whole Bean Coffee – Medium-Dark Roast, 100% Arabica, Nutty and Sweet Flavor, Great for Espresso Machines and Moka Pots, 32 oz Bag

Gaviña Old Havana Espresso Whole Bean Coffee – Medium-Dark Roast, 100% Arabica, Nutty and Sweet Flavor, Great for Espresso Machines and Moka Pots, 32 oz Bag

Craving the perfect espresso? Gaviña Old Havana Espresso is your answer! It’s a medium-dark roast that tastes amazing. Get ready for a fantastic coffee experience.

This 100% Arabica coffee brings a nutty and sweet flavor. It also has a smooth finish that you’ll adore.

It’s great for espresso machines and Moka pots. Plus, this coffee is sustainably sourced for a better planet.

Pros Cons
  • Fresh whole beans for bold, rich espresso every time
  • Nutty, sweet flavor with bright citrus highlights
  • Perfect for espresso machines and moka pots alike
  • Roasted and packed in a zero-waste Los Angeles facility
  • Sustainability-first brand with direct environmental impact
  • May be too specific if you don’t love espresso.
  • Flavor profile is not for everyone.

Perfect For:

Craving that perfect espresso? This is it. Gaviña Old Havana Espresso is perfect for anyone who loves a rich, nutty, and sweet coffee experience.

Ready to Purchase?

5. Lavazza Espresso Whole Bean Coffee, Medium Roast, 100% Arabica, 2.2 lb Bag (Pack of 1)

Lavazza Espresso Whole Bean Coffee, Medium Roast, 100% Arabica, 2.2 lb Bag (Pack of 1)

Lavazza Espresso brings you fresh whole bean coffee in a 2.2 lb bag. It is a medium roast with a 5/10 intensity. Enjoy its sweet and aromatic finish every time.

This 100% Arabica blend comes from South America and Africa. Notes of florals and fruit make it special.

Use it in your espresso machine or drip coffee maker. Lavazza has over 100 years of coffee expertise. Try it now and taste the quality.

Pros Cons
  • Perfect for espresso and drip coffee!
  • Sweet, aromatic medium roast, intensity 5/10.
  • 100% Arabica blend from South America and Africa.
  • Ideal for espresso machines, moka pots, and more!
  • Lavazza: Over a century of coffee expertise!
  • Whole beans need a grinder before brewing.
  • Medium roast might taste too mild for strong coffee fans.
  • Large bag can be hard to store easily.

Perfect For:

This Lavazza Espresso is perfect for coffee fans who love a balanced, fruity flavor in their brew. It’s great for home espresso, drip coffee, or French press users seeking pure Arabica joy.

Ready to Purchase?

6. Blue Bottle Whole Bean Organic Coffee, Espresso, Dark Roast, 12 Ounce bag (Pack of 1)

Blue Bottle Whole Bean Organic Coffee, Espresso, Dark Roast, 12 Ounce bag (Pack of 1)

Blue Bottle makes a dark roast espresso blend from organic whole beans. This 12-ounce bag gives you rich, chocolatey flavor in every cup.

You can enjoy it black or with milk for a special treat. It comes from Latin America and Central Africa as certified organic coffee. Try more blends from Blue Bottle like bright or bold.

Pros Cons
  • Brew a potent espresso shot with ease.
  • Savor bold, chocolatey sweetness in every cup.
  • Taste premium organic beans from top farms.
  • Enjoy fresh, small-batch roasting every time.
  • Pair it beautifully with milk or cream.
  • Very dark roast may taste bitter to some.
  • Whole beans require a grinder before use.
  • Strong espresso may be too intense for light drinkers.

Perfect For:

Craving a rich, intense espresso? This Blue Bottle blend is perfect for anyone who wants a bold, chocolatey kick in their cup. If you love premium, organic coffee that tastes amazing with milk, this is your new go-to.

Ready to Purchase?

7. Death Wish Coffee, Whole Bean Espresso Roast – Organic, Fair Trade, Arabica and Robusta Coffee Beans, 14 ounce (Pack of 1)

Death Wish Coffee, Whole Bean Espresso Roast - Organic, Fair Trade, Arabica and Robusta Coffee Beans, 14 ounce (Pack of 1)

Wake up with Death Wish Coffee Espresso Roast. This whole bean blend packs a serious punch for your mornings.

Enjoy rich, bold cups of coffee. Grind it fresh for espresso-like texture. It tastes of caramelized sugar, cocoa, and cherries.

Savor premium Arabica and Robusta beans. They come Fair Trade Certified from top spots in India, Peru, and Sumatra. Grab yours now and brew like a pro.

Pros Cons
  • Super strong coffee wakes you up fast.
  • Easy to brew rich espresso at home.
  • Tastes like cocoa and cherries.
  • Made from top quality beans.
  • Fair Trade beans support good farms.
  • Too strong for mild coffee fans.
  • Needs grinder to brew.
  • High price per bag.

Perfect For:

Death Wish Coffee Espresso Roast is perfect for people who love a really strong, bold cup of coffee every day. It fits anyone who wants to make smooth, rich espresso at home with high-quality, fair trade beans.

Ready to Purchase?

8. Ethical Bean Fairtrade Organic Coffee, Sweet Espresso Medium Dark Roast, Ground Coffee Beans – 100% Arabica Coffee (8 oz Bag), 0.5 Pound (Pack of 1)

Ethical Bean Fairtrade Organic Coffee, Sweet Espresso Medium Dark Roast, Ground Coffee Beans - 100% Arabica Coffee (8 oz Bag), 0.5 Pound (Pack of 1)

This Ethical Bean coffee is a Fairtrade and Organic ground roast, perfect for your espresso machine. It offers a sweet and bold flavor from 100% Arabica beans that grow without harmful chemicals.

Enjoy fair pay for farmers who make this medium dark brew. The beans come pre-ground in an 8 oz bag, ready to brew right away. Scan the QR code to trace the coffee’s journey from farm to cup.

Pros Cons
  • Delicious medium dark roast espresso, perfectly ground.
  • Fairtrade certified: ethical coffee that tastes good.
  • Organic beans: pure flavor, planet-friendly choice.
  • Trace your beans: See the farm-to-cup story!
  • Only one bag included per purchase.
  • Pre-ground; can’t customize the grind size.
  • Dark roast flavor might not suit all palates.

Perfect For:

This coffee is perfect for ethical coffee lovers who care about fair trade and organic beans. It suits home baristas who want a bold Sweet Espresso roast that mixes well with milk.

Ready to Purchase?

9. Lavazza Espresso Whole Bean Coffee, Medium Roast, 100% Arabica, 2.2 lb Bag

Lavazza Espresso Whole Bean Coffee, Medium Roast, 100% Arabica, 2.2 lb Bag

Get ready for amazing coffee! Enjoy Lavazza Espresso Whole Bean Coffee today.

This medium roast is perfect for any coffee maker. It’s made with 100% Arabica beans from Africa and South America. Taste the floral and fruit notes in every cup.

Pros Cons
  • Smooth flavor with fruity and floral notes.
  • 100% Arabica beans from top sources.
  • Perfect for many brewing methods.
  • Sweet finish that’s aromatic and pleasant.
  • Made with only pure coffee ingredients.
  • Medium roast may not suit all tastes.
  • Whole bean requires a grinder.
  • Only floral and fruit aromatic notes.

Perfect For:

Love a sweet and aromatic coffee? Then Lavazza Espresso Whole Bean Coffee is for you! Perfect for anyone who enjoys a classic, flavorful cup made just the way they like it.

Ready to Purchase?

10. Lavazza Espresso Whole Bean for Automobili Lamborghini, Dark Roast, Arabica and Robusta Blend, 2.2 lb Bag (Package May Vary)

Lavazza Espresso Whole Bean for Automobili Lamborghini, Dark Roast, Arabica and Robusta Blend, 2.2 lb Bag (Package May Vary)

Unleash the power of Lavazza Espresso! It’s a symphony of flavor. This whole bean coffee is truly special.

Expect pure coffee perfection. It’s a dark roast with serious intensity.

It’s easy to brew and enjoy. This blend comes from the best farms. Get ready for an amazing espresso!

Pros Cons
  • Unleash bold flavor with every espresso shot.
  • Savor a rich, dark roast for true coffee lovers.
  • Blend of Arabica and Robusta creates a full-bodied taste.
  • Stay energized with naturally high caffeine levels.
  • Enjoy fresh whole beans ideal for barista-style brewing.
  • Whole beans need grinding first.
  • Bold flavor may feel too strong.
  • Large bag can be heavy.

Perfect For:

This bold espresso blend is perfect for coffee lovers who enjoy strong, dark roasts in their daily espresso. It’s also great for Lamborghini fans who want a taste of the speed in every cup.

Ready to Purchase?

Buying Guide

Try rich shots every time. Pick beans you love. Brew with care.

Real users say the crema looked great and the cup was tasty. Many note the grind and dose changed the flavor. Some swapped beans until they found their favorite.

  • Bean Type: Choose Arabica for bright, smooth flavor. Add Robusta for more crema and a stronger kick.
  • Roast Level: Light keeps acids and fruit notes. Medium balances sweetness and body. Dark brings bold, smoky taste.
  • Freshness: Buy beans with a roast date. Use beans within 3–4 weeks for best flavor.
  • Whole Bean vs Ground: Whole bean keeps flavor longer. Grind fresh right before brewing.
  • Grind Size: Use a fine grind for espresso. Too coarse makes weak shots. Too fine can block the machine.
  • Origin & Blend: Single-origin shows clear flavor notes. Blends give consistent espresso taste.
  • Flavor Profile: Look for chocolate, nut, caramel, fruit, or floral notes. Pick what you enjoy in a shot.
  • Caffeine Level: Robusta raises caffeine. Arabica is milder. Choose based on how strong you want to feel.
  • Certifications: Organic and Fair Trade show ethical or clean growing methods. They do not always mean better taste.
  • Packaging: Bags with one-way valves keep beans fresh. Avoid loose or damaged packaging.
  • Price & Size: Buy what you will use in a month. Larger bags save money but can lose freshness.
  • Machine Compatibility: Check your espresso machine or Moka pot needs. Some beans work better with steam-driven or pump machines.
  • Body & Acidity: For classic espresso, choose full body and balanced acidity. Lighter beans feel brighter.
  • Milk Pairing: If you add milk, pick beans with chocolate, caramel, or nutty notes. They cut through milk well.
  • Experimentation: Try small bags or sample packs first. Keep notes on dose, grind, and taste to find your best bean.

Quick tip: Grind fresh, tamp evenly, and keep water hot. Small changes make big taste gains.