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7 Best Medium Roast Espresso Beans | Reviews in 2024

For espresso to be done right, you need to invest in the best medium-roast espresso beans. Trust me, espresso, when done right, gives an out-of-the-world taste. 

It is a fact that not all beans give a flavorful taste when making an espresso shot. So, it would help if you were very cautious when selecting which beans to use.

Best Medium Roast Espresso Beans

So, now you may be wondering what beans work best for making espresso. The answer is easy, so far after testing out quite a few beans, I can conclude that medium-roasted espresso beans make the most smooth and rich espresso flavor. But, still finding the right medium-roasted espresso beans can be difficult due to the wide variety. 

To help you find the best medium roast espresso beans, I have reviewed the top 7 beans. So, without any further ado, let’s dive in deep!

Top Picks Medium Roast Espresso Beans – List At A Glance

IMAGE TITLE BUY
Lavazza Super Crema...image Lavazza Super Crema Whole Bean Coffee Blend, Medium Espresso Roast View On Amazon
San Francisco Bay...image SAN FRANCISCO BAY Coffee DECAF Espresso Roast Whole Bean Coffee, Medium Dark Roast View On Amazon
Lavazza Caffe Espresso...image Lavazza Caffe Espresso Italiano Whole Bean Coffee Blend, Medium Roast View On Amazon
illy Ground Coffee...image Illy Classico Espresso Ground Coffee, Medium Roast View On Amazon
Coffee Bros, Espresso...image Coffee Bros., Espresso Medium Roast — Whole Bean View On Amazon
Kicking Horse Coffee...image KICKING HORSE COFFEE Organic Cliff Hanger Espresso, Medium Roast View On Amazon
Stumptown Coffee Roasters,...image Stumptown Coffee Roasters, Medium Roast Whole Bean Coffee View On Amazon

Best Medium Roast Espresso Beans – Reviews 2024

For more knowledge about the products find below the detailed reviews. After having reviewed the following with pros and cons, you will be able to select the one suitable for you.

1. Lavazza Super Crema Whole Bean Coffee Blend, Medium Espresso Roast

Lavazza Super Crema Whole Bean Coffee Blend, light-Medium Espresso Roast, 2.2 Pound (Pack of 1) ,Premium Quality, Aromatic, Mild and creamy
  • Aromatic
  • Super Crema Flavor
  • Arabica and Robusta

Features 

  • Roast: Medium Roast
  • Flavor: hazelnuts and brown sugar 
  • Origin: Brazil, Central America, Indonesia
  • Grind Type: Whole roast beans
  • Bag Size: 2.2 Pound
  • Caffeine Content: Yes

Super Crema Whole Beans are one of the famous medium-roasted espresso beans by Lavazza. These are sourced from Italy and undergo a traditional roasting process to bring out maximum flavor.

Though, you can make any kind of coffee with these beans. But, it gives the most delicious and smooth taste, especially when making espresso coffee with such espresso machines in the linked article.

If you are a medium roast espresso lover, then you will surely love its balanced taste with thick Crema. It has a very distinct taste that is neither too mild nor too intense.

It has a unique flavor profile with a hint of sugar and hazelnut. The sweet yet natural espresso taste is sure to leave a tantalizing taste on your taste buds.

Pros
  • Full-bodied, rich goodness
  • Aromatic and naturally sweet flavor
  • Reasonable price
Cons
  • It may taste slightly more bitter than some espresso roasts
  • It may not be very fresh

2. SAN FRANCISCO BAY Coffee DECAF Espresso Roast Whole Bean Coffee

San Francisco Bay Whole Bean Coffee - DECAF Espresso Roast (2lb Bag), Dark Roast
  • Quality Coffee
  • Naturally Decaffeinated
  • Compostable Coffee Pods

Features

  • Roast: Medium-Dark Roast
  • Flavor: dark chocolate & vanilla 
  • Origin: Central America
  • Grind Type: Whole beans
  • Bag Size: 2 lb 
  • Caffeine Content: Swiss Water Process Decaffeinated

The San Francisco Bay Decaf Espresso is an ideal choice for coffee with a fresh yet strong espresso flavor. Decaf coffee may be a perfect pick for those individuals who like coffee with a lesser or no caffeine content.

You will love the rich and decadent chocolatey, smokey, and nutty notes of these espresso beans without being excessively acidic. It is not only healthy but also naturally sourced and kosher-friendly.

Since all coffee beans come naturally caffeinated. These coffee beans undergo a Swiss Water Process to remove almost all caffeine content. 

This natural process is based purely on water and doesn’t include any chemicals. Hence, preserving the great espresso taste is ideal. These beans are perfect for making different coffee drinks like espresso, lattes, cappuccinos, and mocha. You will love the balanced taste and rich texture of these 100% Arabica espresso beans.

Pros
  • Best value for money
  • Versatile usability
  • Chemical-free
Cons
  • Maybe a little bit bland
  • Leave some oil residue in the coffee grinder

People also like to read: 7 Best Professional Espresso Machines For Home | Reviews 2024

3. Lavazza Caffe Espresso Italiano Whole Bean Coffee Blend, Medium Roast

Lavazza Caffe Espresso Italiano Whole Bean Coffee Blend, Medium Roast, 2.2-Pound Bag (Pack of 2)
  • Whole Bean
  • Caffeinated
  • Highly Aromatic Notes

Features

  • Roast: Medium Roast
  • Flavor: Floral and fruit notes
  • Origin: Africa, Central, and South America
  • Grind Type: Whole beans
  • Bag Size: 2.2-Pound 
  • Caffeine Content: Caffeinated

The next medium-roasted espresso beans on my list are Lavazza Caffe Espresso Italiano Whole Bean Coffee Blend. These are yet another hundred percent Arabica beans by Lavazza, having a very distinct rich, and aromatic taste.

If you are a die-hard espresso lover, you will love its rich, full-body, and decadent flavor profile. The best thing about these beans is that they are naturally sourced and don’t have any GMOs. 

The earthy yet aromatic taste has a hint of natural sweetness, which is enough to indulge your senses. You may not have to add any more sugar to the espresso.

Furthermore, the sweet chocolaty aroma and taste will leave a lasting impact on you, making you crave more. Another great thing is that these coffee beans work best with espresso, drip coffee makers, and French press. 

Pros
  • Fruity and chocolatey taste
  • Full-bodied balanced flavor
  • Eco-friendly sourcing procedures
Cons
  • Not for individuals who prefer Robusta coffee

4. Illy Classico Espresso Ground Coffee, Medium Roast

illy Ground Coffee Espresso - 100% Arabica Coffee Ground – Classico Medium Roast - Notes of Caramel, Orange Blossom & Jasmine - Rich Aromatic Profile - Precise Roast - No Preservatives – 8.8 Ounce
  • Ground Espresso
  • Caramel, Chocolate Flavor
  • Air-free Pressurized Can

Features 

  • Roast: Medium Roast
  • Flavor: Chocolate & Caramel
  • Origin: Italy
  • Grind Type: Ground roast beans
  • Bag Size: 8.8 Ounce
  • Caffeine Content: Mildly Caffeinated

Are you more of a ground coffee person? If the answer is yes, then you will surely love Illy Classico Espresso Ground Coffee.

These are the best coffee beans for espresso, having a very smooth and rich taste. You will love the flavors of chocolate and caramel in this delicious espresso coffee.

The coffee grounds are made from a hundred percent Arabica coffee grounds that work with any coffee maker. Unlike many other coffee grounds, these come in an airtight container.

It is appropriately sealed to ensure that the freshness of coffee grinds gets retained for a long time. Since these coffee grinds are naturally sourced, they may have less caffeine content in comparison.

If you love a less acidic, sweet, and rich taste, then the Illy Classico Espresso Grounds are just for you.

Pros
  • It doesn’t have any preservatives
  • Fine grinds for maximum flavor extraction
  • Smooth taste without any bitterness
Cons
  • High price
  • The flavor is not very intense

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5. Coffee Bros., Espresso Roast — Whole Bean — 100% Arabica

Coffee Bros, Espresso Roast — Whole Bean — 100% Arabica — 1 Bag (12oz) — Colombia & Ethiopia — Gourmet & Specialty
  • Arabica
  • Caffeinated
  • Vanilla, Strawberry Flavor

Features 

  • Roast: Medium Roast
  • Flavor: Vanilla, strawberry, and sugar cane
  • Origin: Colombia & Ethiopia
  • Grind Type: Whole beans
  • Bag Size: 12oz
  • Caffeine Content: Caffeinated

The Coffee Bros Espresso Roast lives up to its promise of a smooth yet strong espresso. It is made using 100% percent Arabica beans sourced from Colombia & Ethiopia.

You will love the sweet natural flavor notes of vanilla and strawberry. The freshness of the espresso will indeed have you craving cup after cup.

Besides, the sweet yet bold balanced taste is just what you need for your daily caffeine intake. The juicy and fruity flavor of the coffee has the right combination without being overbearing at the same time.

These medium-roasted espresso beans undergo a careful roasting process to bring out the best flavor. It is its special roasting process that defines its unique taste.

Pros
  • The flavor is intense yet not too bitter
  • Its vibrant taste will is sure to tantalize your senses
  • It comes in an airtight resealable package
Cons
  • Some people are not too fond of the sweetness
  • It may leave an aftertaste

6. KICKING HORSE COFFEE Organic Cliff Hanger Espresso

Kicking Horse Coffee Organic Cliff Hanger Espresso, 454 GR
  • Arabica
  • Smooth Blend
  • Cocoa Finish

Features 

  • Roast: Medium Roast
  • Flavor: Fruity with hints of chocolate 
  • Origin: Africa, Indonesia, South America, Central America
  • Grind Type: Whole roast beans
  • Bag Size: 1 LB
  • Caffeine Content: Caffeinated

The KICKING HORSE COFFEE Organic Cliff Hanger Espresso, despite being mildly intense, will capture your senses. It has the right combination of flavor and intensity to keep you indulging and wanting more.

Furthermore, these beans are organically sourced, kosher-friendly, and non-GMO. They are grown under a unique tree shade for maximum absorption of nutrients.

This organic coffee’s rich and decadent flavor has chocolaty and fruity flavor notes. These take their flavor notes to the next level leaving a lasting impression on your taste buds.

In addition, the taste and its aroma are also enthralling to capture your attention. The blend comes with beans from Africa, Indonesia, South America, and Central America.

It not only gives the espresso a very well-balanced taste. But, it also has a very low acidic and velvety sweet taste.

Pros
  • It is sustainably sourced
  • Rich and consistent taste
  • Stronger than other medium roast blends
Cons
  • Rich and oily texture
  • It tends to lose some of its aromas during the brewing process

Checkout our: The 10 Best Coffee Makers with Hot Water Dispenser | Reviews of 2024

7. Stumptown Coffee Roasters, Medium Roast Whole Bean Coffee

Stumptown Coffee Roasters, Medium Roast Whole Bean Coffee - Hair Bender 12 Ounce Bag with Flavor Notes of Citrus and Dark Chocolate
  • Hair Bender
  • Espresso Blend
  • Citrus and Dark Chocolate

Features

  • Roast: Medium Roast
  • Flavor: Citrus and Dark Chocolate
  • Origin: Latin America and Africa
  • Grind Type: Whole beans
  • Bag Size: 12 Ounce
  • Caffeine Content: Caffeinated

The delicious and complex notes of the Stumptown Coffee Hair Bender coffee will surely tantalize your taste buds. These beans are sustainably sourced from Latin America, Indonesia, and Africa, promoting eco-friendly farming methods.

Furthermore, these beans are roasted with extreme precision to bring out their distinct flavor notes. These gourmet coffee beans carry strong coffee and fudge flavor notes with hints of dark fruit. 

Its rich and delicious flavor makes it a refreshing drink perfect to start your day. At the same time, the medium blend ensures a blanched amount of acidity and taste.

These coffee beans come in a re-sealable bag and remain fresh for weeks. You can use these coffee beans with almost any semi-automatic coffee maker. 

Pros
  • Smooth and alluring flavor notes
  • It doesn’t leave behind an oily residue
  • Mild and sweet taste with a rich crema
Cons
  • It is not organic
  • It may have a bitter aftertaste

Read our: 10 Best Espresso Machines Under 100 | Reviewed in 2024

Best Medium Roast Espresso Beans – Buying Guide

All factors like grind size, type, and roast define how your espresso will turn. Even if you use an excellent espresso maker with the wrong beans, you can blend espresso.

So, to help you find the best medium roast espresso beans, here are some essential factors to assist you in getting the right beans. 

Bean Type 

The espresso bean type depends upon the region it is sourced from. Typically, Arabica or Robusta beans are used for making espresso shots.

Of the two, Arabica beans come from coffee plants in Ethiopia known for their chocolaty taste. Whereas Robusta beans come from central Africa and have a complex taste for a rich yet, balanced espresso.

South and Central American medium roast espresso beans also have a low acidic and fruity flavor. Those with a dark blend make the richest and most flavorful coffee. 

Freshness 

The fresher the beans, the more delicious your espresso will turn out to be. This is important because of the Crema on an espresso.

Crema is a creamy layer of rich goodness on top of the espresso. It gets made when hot water infuses the coffee beans leaving CO2 and oils on top.

As the coffee beans get older, forming a crema on top may get challenging. So, whenever getting espresso beans, always check the date of the roast.

Blend or Single Origin 

Most die-hard espresso lovers prefer using coffee bean blends rather than single-origin. It is because combinations give a richer and smoother flavor in comparison.

You can find multiple American and African bean blends offering sweet and fruity notes. Blends are more of a much safer option to choose when making espresso.

Single-origin beans are what make experimenting possible. These have a bold and intense flavor that makes the most innovative espresso.

Grinds or Whole Bean 

Freshly ground espresso beans make the most incredible smooth espressos compared to grinds. You may need to invest in getting a coffee bean grinder to make a fresh batch every time. 

Some advanced espresso machines even come with an inbuilt grinder as well. On the other hand, pre-grind beans make it easy for you to make espresso in no time.

But, if they are not fresh enough, they may end up making bland and watery espresso consistency. 

Flavor Profile

Every espresso bean has its unique flavor profile. It may have a chocolaty, nutty, fruity, earthy, or smoky flavor to it.

The flavor profile of the coffee beans you choose depends upon your personal preference.

FAQs:

Is medium roast good for espresso? 

According to the most seasoned baristas, medium roasts or dark medium roasts make delicious espresso coffee. 

What does medium roast coffee taste like?

Medium roast coffee has come with less acidity and has a completely rounded flavor profile. It has a very sweet and rich espresso taste.

What is the difference between a dark roast and a medium roast?

Medium roast coffee beans have a balanced flavor with a rich and smooth texture. It is the healthiest cup of coffee, fully rich in antioxidants.

On the other hand, dark roast beans are roasted for much longer. This gives them a very smoky, bold, and bitter taste profile.

Conclusion 

So, now you have all the essential information about finding espresso beans. I hope it won’t be as challenging for you to get the Best Medium Roast Espresso Beans. 

All the espresso beans I have mentioned in my list make the most fantastic espresso. But, my personal favorite is Illy Classico Espresso Ground Coffee Beans.

This helps make a rich-tasting espresso with a hint of natural sweetness, but if you crave more of an intense espresso flavor. Then do check out the SAN FRANCISCO BAY Coffee DECAF Espresso Roast Whole Bean Coffee. These are the most intense medium roast espresso beans that give you the perfect caffeine kick.

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