Discover the Perfect Brew: Top Quality Whole Bean Coffees for Every Taste and Method

Whether you savor your morning cup of joe or indulge in the occasional afternoon pick-me-up, nothing beats the rich aroma and complex flavors of a freshly brewed cup of coffee. But with so many options available on the market, finding the perfect whole bean coffee can be a daunting task. That's why we've compiled a list of the top quality whole bean coffees that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. From the bold and robust Kick Ass Dark Roast by Kicking Horse Coffee to the smooth and balanced Holler Mountain Medium Roast by Stumptown Coffee Roasters, there's something on this list for every coffee connoisseur. So grab your grinder and get ready to elevate your coffee-drinking experience to new heights with these top-notch whole bean coffees.

The Finest Whole Bean Coffee - Kicking Horse Coffee, Kick Ass Dark Roast

Kicking Horse Coffee Company’s Kick Ass dark roast whole bean coffee is undoubtedly my top choice for the finest coffee beans available on Amazon. This dark roast whole coffee bean brews an exceptionally smooth cup of coffee that is sure to please the palates of all coffee enthusiasts.

This roast has become my go-to option for a daily brew at home. It is perfectly suited for both French press brewing and drip coffee makers. The coffee beans consistently deliver a fresh and well-rounded flavor profile. Since it is a whole bean coffee, you have the flexibility to grind it according to your preferences, ensuring a satisfying brew every time.

Kick Ass is not only known for its exceptional taste but also holds organic and fair trade certifications, making this roast an excellent choice for conscious consumers who prioritize supporting farmers. The blend of Indonesian and South American beans produces a beautifully balanced cup with smoky and sweet flavors.

Despite being a dark roast, Kick Ass won't overwhelm your palate with its richness. It offers a caffeine content of 120 mg per 6 oz cup, providing a sufficient boost to kickstart your morning.

If you're interested in experiencing the remarkable flavor of Kicking Horse Coffee's Kick Ass dark roast, you can easily purchase a 1-pound bag on Amazon for under $20.00 with free shipping for Prime members.

Premium Ground Coffee - Stumptown Coffee Roasters, Holler Mountain Medium Roast

Holler Mountain is one of the original blends from Stumptown Coffee Roasters that has catapulted the brand to unparalleled fame. Holler Mountain is an exceptional, full-bodied medium roast ground coffee specially crafted for my pour-over brewer and Aeropress.

I absolutely adore this organic blend, as it can be seamlessly used in any drip coffee application, alleviating any concerns about preground coffee. I find myself finishing a bag in less than a week, ensuring utmost freshness and preventing the ground coffee from losing its flavor.

Considering its status as a premium, gourmet coffee brand, Holler Mountain is remarkably affordable. A bag of these ground coffee beans is priced at under $15.00, positioning it as an easily accessible choice for a wide range of coffee enthusiasts. Furthermore, the convenience of being able to purchase it on Amazon ensures widespread availability.

Although Holler Mountain is not a flavored coffee, it boasts delightful notes of creamy caramel and rich undertones. During the summer, I particularly enjoy preparing it as a Japanese iced coffee, finding that its lighter roast perfectly suits my seasonal preferences.

For those interested in acquiring this extraordinary bag of ground coffee, you can readily find Stumptown's Holler Mountain for sale on Amazon.

Ultimate Coffee for French Press - Really Good Coffee Co., Organic Dark Roast

Have you ever heard of Really Good Coffee Co? Until a friend of mine gifted me a bag, I wasn't familiar with them either. As a devoted coffee lover, I couldn't stop raving about the exquisite French press coffee I had at her house one day. The bag she generously got me was Good Coffee Company's organic dark roast. This bold and flavorful coffee is ideal for a French press brewing method.

The remarkable flavor profile of this dark roast exhibits an intriguing blend of floral and citrus notes, truly complementing the French press brewing process. Helmed by artisanal craftsmanship, Really Good Coffee Co has curated a dark roast that stands out in terms of both quality and taste. Its distinction as a single-origin, organic whole coffee bean further enhances its performance.

Based in Seattle, the Good Coffee Company takes pride in its commitment to delivering pure, gourmet coffee beans to the market. Their dedication to freshness and excellence ensures a consistently enjoyable coffee experience.

For those interested in experiencing the extraordinary flavor of Really Good Coffee Company's organic dark roast whole bean coffee, it is conveniently available on Amazon. You can easily purchase a 2-pound bag for under $30.00 with free shipping for Prime members.

Unsurpassed Coffee for Moka Pot - Illy, Moka Ground, Classica Roast

Moka pots embody the essence of traditional Italian-style percolator coffee makers, producing rich, creamy coffee akin to espresso. To achieve the perfect cup of Moka pot coffee, it is crucial to select coffee grounds with the precise grind, which is where Illy's Moka ground, classica roast coffee comes into play. It undoubtedly reigns as the best coffee option for Moka pot brewing.

Illy's Moka ground coffee exemplifies a rich and smooth texture, ensuring that the resulting coffee boasts the desirable characteristics of a velvety espresso. With over 80 years of expertise in the coffee industry, this esteemed Italian roaster has perfected the classica roast to cater to Moka pot enthusiasts worldwide.

The exquisite flavor profile of Illy's Moka ground coffee entails delightful notes of caramel, alongside roasted hazelnuts, culminating in a perfect faux crema that is highly sought-after by connoisseurs of Moka pot coffee. It is worth noting that although this blend is not composed of actual espresso beans, its medium roast shines brilliantly in this particular brewing method.

Packaged in the iconic silver tin that not only adds a touch of elegance but also preserves the ground coffee's freshness for an extended period, Illy's Moka ground coffee is a paramount choice for coffee lovers. Personally, I am so enamored with this coffee that I have it on auto-ship, ensuring a steady supply of my favorite caffeine fix.

For those eager to purchase the Illy Moka ground classica roast, it is readily available on Amazon, offering free shipping for Prime members.

Exceptional Light Roast Coffee - Coffee Bros., Light Roast

I have to admit, I used to hold reservations about embracing light roast coffees. Perhaps it was some ingrained belief that darker roasts yield a more substantial caffeine kick. However, science has thoroughly debunked this myth, and my perspective has shifted since a fellow coffee lover recommended that I try Coffee Bros., light roast coffee beans.

Established in 2019 by brothers Nick and Dan Hunnewell, Coffee Bros. has diligently endeavored to bring the essence of third-wave coffee to Amazon's broader market, all while striving to support the small-scale farmers that constitute a significant share of the coffee-growing industry. In my opinion, they have not only succeeded but have addressed an underserved niche in the market.

The light roast whole beans from Coffee Bros. showcase a flavor profile that beautifully adapts to almost any brewing method, including espresso. With each carefully brewed cup, you'll savor notes of honey, crisp grapefruit, and delightful floral undertones, culminating in a smooth and satisfying finish. This coffee is a wonderful choice for serving at brunch or as an invigorating afternoon pick-me-up. It has become a staple in my collection, especially when I aim to introduce others to the joys of light roast coffee.

The small-batch coffee is promptly packaged after roasting, ensuring optimal freshness. It is then swiftly dispatched in small shipments to Amazon, guaranteeing that customers receive beans of the highest quality. Moreover, Coffee Bros. takes pride in prominently listing the harvest and roast dates on all its packaging, further attesting to the exceptional quality of their product.

For those interested in purchasing this outstanding light roast coffee, it is available on Amazon. By doing so, you not only indulge in a fantastic coffee experience but also make a feel-good purchase. If you have any inquiries, you even have the unique opportunity to speak directly to one of the founders when contacting their customer service.

Exemplary Coffee for Budget-Conscious Individuals - Community Coffee, New Orleans Blend

As someone with deep Southern roots and connections to Louisiana, Community Coffee holds a special place in my heart. This beloved brand has been a staple in every kitchen I've encountered, from my grandparents' households (on both sides) to my parents'. If it wasn't Community Coffee, was it even coffee? Don't even get me started on the debate surrounding iced tea brands!

Growing up with this brand as the sole standard for coffee, I erroneously assumed that everyone was familiar with it. Little did I know that when I moved to Colorado after college, it would become nearly impossible to find. I resorted to having my parents ship it to me, along with other beloved Southern treats that were nowhere to be found in Colorado.

Thus, it gives me great pleasure to introduce Community Coffee New Orleans Blend as my top selection for the best budget-friendly coffee available on Amazon. This dark roast boasts an intoxicatingly deep and flavorful profile, evoking memories of chilly mornings spent in my grandmother's warm kitchen during holiday visits.

What makes Community Coffee even more exceptional is that it remains a family-owned business for over four generations. They have steadfastly maintained their commitment to community-minded values, ensuring the utmost quality in their coffee, fostering strong relationships with suppliers, and actively giving back to their community.

The New Orleans Blend is an excellent value for its pricing, offering a depth of flavor that most budget coffees fail to deliver. Priced at around .00 for a 12 oz bag, it provides exceptional bang for your buck without compromising on taste.

Those interested in experiencing the delightful flavors of Community Coffee's New Orleans Blend can easily purchase it on Amazon, with free shipping available for Prime members.

Superlative Everyday Coffee - Stumptown, Hair Bender Dark Roast

We have now arrived at my personal favorite coffee for everyday brewing. While I have previously extolled the wonders of Stumptown Hair Bender in various other posts, I feel compelled to highlight it as the epitome of everyday coffee available on Amazon. Hair Bender serves as a keystone in Stumptown's repertoire and delivers unrivaled performance across a plethora of brewing methods, including drip, pour-over, Aeropress, French press, and even Moka pot.

The dark roast of Hair Bender is distinctively non-oily in nature, setting it apart from most other roasts, while still rivaling the intensity of espresso beans. For those utilizing automatic espresso makers, this roast's lack of oil build-up offers a transformative experience.

Hair Bender is not only Stumptown's choice for their own espresso drinks in their specialty shops but also resonates harmoniously with alternative brewing methods. When prepared via pour-over brewing, this immaculate roast accentuates delightful citrus and deep chocolate notes, showcasing the hand-roasted beans' complexity.

To fully embrace the versatility of this roast and immerse yourself in the masterful craftsmanship of Stumptown, I highly recommend purchasing Hair Bender in whole bean form. This way, you can grind the beans according to your brewing preference, unlocking the maximum potential of this remarkable coffee. It is, without a doubt, my top pick for Amazon's finest everyday coffee beans. You can conveniently purchase a bag of Stumptown's Hair Bender dark roast on Amazon, with free shipping offered to Prime members.

Unmatched Decaf Coffee - Kicking Horse Coffee, Dark Roast Decaf

Full transparency is crucial here—I personally do not consume decaf coffee. Therefore, I conducted thorough research and sought recommendations in order to provide you with the best decaf coffee beans available on Amazon. Thankfully, my stepmom happens to be a decaf drinker. Like many others, she experiences a sensitivity to caffeine but still relishes the flavor of coffee. Who could blame her?

To that end, I wholeheartedly present Kicking Horse dark roast decaf as the unparalleled choice for decaf coffee beans on Amazon, if not the entire internet. These fairtrade, organic, shade-grown beans have been meticulously Swiss-processed, ensuring utmost satisfaction for decaf enthusiasts and those seeking a caffeine-free cup of coffee.

When seeking a good decaf coffee, it is imperative to select a swiss-processed option. This method employs an all-natural approach and abstains from the use of solvents to extract caffeine.

Despite its decaffeinated nature, this dark roast excites the senses with its irresistible flavors of chocolate and roasted hazelnuts. Kicking Horse recommends various brewing methods for this decaf blend, including drip, French press, espresso, and cold brew.

My stepmom is such an ardent fan of this decaf roast that she purchases 2.2-pound bags of whole beans in bulk. However, for those seeking a lesser commitment, I recommend exploring a 10 oz. bag of Kicking Horse dark roast decaf on Amazon for under $10.00.

Supreme Coffee for Cold Brew - Stone Street Cold Brew Coffee, Strong & Smooth Blend

I am passionate about cold brew coffee. As a resident of North Texas, where the scorching heat prevails for most of the year, cold brew has become my preferred method of coffee consumption.

Over the years, I have tirelessly sought out the perfect coffee beans for cold brewing. For the longest time, my go-to was Sumatra roast. However, my exploration eventually led me to chance upon Stone Street's cold brew roasts. This particular blend is available in whole bean form, which I personally favor in order to grind the beans moments before brewing. Strong and smooth, the Stone Street blend epitomizes the essence of exceptional cold brew.

A vital aspect of a good cold brew roast lies in its ability to perform extraordinarily well without the influence of heat, preserving the fullness of its flavor. Stone Street has ingeniously curated an entire line of cold brew coffee beans on Amazon. For those who prefer preground beans, they offer all their cold brew blends, including flavored options, in a coarse grind, which is essential for achieving the golden ratio in cold brew coffee preparation.

With over ten flavors and blends to choose from, Stone Street caters to a variety of tastes in its cold brew line. Additionally, they offer some of their cold brew blends in premeasured brewing sachets for added convenience. While I have tried most of their offerings, I continuously find myself returning to their original cold brew blend.

This coffee roast showcases delightful notes of chocolate and nuttiness, balanced by a lower acidity finish, resulting in an assertive and smooth flavor. You can conveniently purchase a pound of Stone Street cold brew blend on Amazon, with prices starting under $16.00.

Stumptown Coffee Roasters

Stumptown Coffee Roasters may not be a household name, but it has gained immense popularity in an industry where consumers are becoming increasingly discerning about the quality of the coffee they drink. Despite not being found on every street corner, it has secured the top spot on our list, and by a wide margin. Experts highly regard this brand, which is why it ranks number one on most prestigious lists.

Founder’s Blend by Stumptown Coffee Roasters is highlighted by Tasting Table as a testament to the brand's "newness" and exceptional quality: "Bestowing the top position to a relatively new coffee roaster might seem unconventional among a list that includes century-old coffee producers. However, Stumptown’s coffees truly stand out. Since its establishment in the 1990s, Stumptown has gradually risen to a superior position in the coffee industry, establishing itself as one of the best caffeine companies. Through their commitment to coffee science and meticulous sourcing, Stumptown offers beans that encapsulate the complexities of coffee. They present their products in an approachable manner, encouraging a learning experience with each cup. While their bagged offerings may have a higher price tag compared to other choices, purchasing Stumptown coffee is a luxury that can elevate special occasions or leisurely weekend mornings. These beans are simply outstanding."

“The impact Stumptown has had in the coffee world is undeniable,” states The Manual. “Sourcing incredible beans and delivering them freshly roasted, this Pacific Northwest operation allows you to experience the joy of grinding coffee at home. The whole bean lineup from Stumptown is noteworthy, not just for its enticing aroma, but also for its rich flavor profile.”

According to The Spruce Eats, "Determining the best coffee is subjective, as preferences for dark or light roasts differ among people. It may also depend on the brewing method or value for money. However, Stumptown has consistently been a top favorite in the coffee industry for decades. While the brand offers several blends deserving of the best overall spot, we have chosen Holler Mountain as it boasts a strong flavor that appeals to a wide range of coffee enthusiasts. It is a versatile choice that can be enjoyed as a daily batch of drip coffee without growing tired of it. Holler Mountain complements various brewing methods, including espresso and pour-over. This medium roast combines smooth notes of chocolate and caramel with hints of citrus and berry jam, creating a distinguished taste. It is widely available both online and in grocery stores, in whole bean or pre-ground form.”

Stone Street Coffee Company

Best Dark Roast

Stone Street Coffee Company, based in New York, truly excels at producing bold, dark roasted coffee. The company offers a diverse range of options from various regions around the world, each delivering equally delightful flavors. While many dark roast coffees are overpowering when consumed without milk, this is not the case for Stone Street. They have skillfully crafted a dark roast that remains enjoyable and palatable even on its own.

Intelligentsia Coffee

Established in Chicago in 1995, Intelligentsia Coffee represents the third wave of coffee, which focuses on high-quality beans sourced from individual farms. As a result, their coffees generally come at a slightly higher price point compared to the typical grab-and-go options.

Intelligentsia Coffee El Diablo has garnered immense recognition in the coffee community. The Coffee Chronicler describes Intelligentsia as "a legendary company in the American specialty coffee scene." The brand's commitment to direct trade and strong relationships with the farms they source from contribute to consistently exceptional quality. Unlike some of the larger multinational companies that rely on marketing gimmicks, Intelligentsia's Black Cat Espresso is a dark, intriguing blend with flavors of chocolate, caramel, and molasses. It boasts a low acidity level, making it suitable for milk-based drinks or individuals with sensitive stomachs.

Delish highlights Intelligentsia's Black Cat Espresso, stating, "This espresso has received high praise from reviewers who describe it as smooth-tasting and easy to drink. It leaves a delightful crema and is a favorite among espresso enthusiasts."

The Spruce Eats states, "Intelligentsia's House Blend is the epitome of a coffee that will get you out of bed in the morning. It combines the crisp notes of apple and citrus with the sweetness of cane sugar and milk chocolate, resulting in a delectable brew. While Intelligentsia offers a range of superb light roasts, such as the El Gallo Breakfast Blend and various single-origin coffees, the House Blend is our top choice. Intelligentsia, one of the most beloved and influential roasters in recent decades, prioritizes craftsmanship and advancing the direct-trade coffee model. While their products vary in price, the House Blend offers a highly flavorful and affordable option compared to similar competitors. It can be purchased in two sizes: 12 ounces or 5 pounds."

Illy Coffee

Illy, hailing from Italy, is a renowned Italian coffee company headquartered in Trieste that specializes in espresso. Interestingly, they were reportedly the first coffee company to introduce coffee pods to the market.

According to The Coffee Chronicler, Illy Coffee Beans are considered a classic in the espresso community. The reviewer states, "Illy is a traditional Italian company that has long been associated with espresso. Despite being a large and somewhat industrial enterprise, Illy demonstrates great attention to selecting the right beans for their blends. They meticulously choose sweet cherries with minimal defects. This is the same kind of coffee that world barista champions used only 16 years ago. The medium roast of Illy's beans makes them suitable for almost any brewing style. Illy may not be the highlight of the highly advanced and snobbish coffee world that exists today, but it never fails to deliver a smooth and balanced cup, regardless of your preferred brewing method. The Classic Roast is pre-ground, making it convenient for those without a coffee grinder. However, if you have a grinder, I recommend opting for the whole beans for better freshness. Illy's products pride themselves on containing only pure coffee beans without any additives or preservatives. Whether you're seeking a delightful after-dinner treat or a companion for a light snack, this blend offers something for every coffee lover."

Tasting Table affirms, "When you think about quality espresso, it's hard not to envision an idyllic Italian scene. Your kitchen may not resemble a gleaming Sicilian villa or a bustling cafe in Rome, but with Illy Coffee, you can infuse your space with the scent of Italian excellence. While Turin often receives recognition for introducing the now-international Lavazza brand, the far northeastern city of Trieste is equally significant in Italy's coffee history. And at the helm rests the king of the capital: illycaffè. Admittedly, Illy is pricier compared to grocery store coffee, but its flavor is unmatched. The 8.8-ounce tins contain some of Italy's finest roasts, including pods for single-c

up machines and exquisite instant coffee options. Illy is commonly used as an espresso coffee, but the magic lies in its versatility. Whether brewed in a French press or a regular coffee maker, it offers a smooth and balanced experience, devoid of any burnt or sour notes. Nonetheless, for those who prefer a ground coffee, Illy also offers the Ground Drip Classico. Embarking on a coffee journey is undoubtedly an Italian tradition."

Good Housekeeping describes Illy Coffee Beans as "smooth and robust with minimal bitterness or acidity." The medium roast offers a subtle, lingering sweetness that leaves you craving another sip. Packaged in an air-free, pressurized can for maximum freshness and easy storage, these 100% Arabica beans are considered a premium choice among the world's most common coffee varieties. The balanced brew is readily available in various retailers nationwide, making it an accessible option for anyone in search of a new go-to cup.

Lavazza Coffee

Lavazza has undoubtedly made a name for itself on the shelves of grocery stores worldwide. Founded in 1895 by Luigi Lavazza, this Italian brand has shown remarkable resilience and is currently managed by third and fourth-generation family members, clearly indicating its enduring presence in the coffee industry.

Lavazza Coffee Medium Roast is praised by Cuisine at Home as an exceptional choice for those seeking a rich and creamy cup of coffee. Their light-medium espresso roast effectively brings out the delightful aromas of hazelnuts and brown sugar. This blend, known as Super Crema, consists of 60% Arabica and 40% Robusta beans, resulting in a unique flavor profile that is perfectly suited for preparation in your favorite espresso machine. For true coffee enthusiasts, the 2.2 lb bag is the ideal size—it's not too small, requiring immediate repurchase, yet it's also not excessively large, ensuring that you won't end up with excessive amounts of coffee. This guarantees that every brewed cup of Lavazza coffee is fresh and bursting with flavor. The brand prides itself on using only pure coffee beans, without any additives or preservatives. Whether you're indulging in an after-dinner treat or simply savoring a light snack, this blend caters to a variety of tastes.

The Coffee Chronicler adds insights about Lavazza Espresso Italiano, stating, "This is a medium roast coffee from Lavazza that offers a subtle and balanced experience with notes of hazelnut and chocolate. While Lavazza refers to it as 'Espresso Italiano,' it may be misleading to those associating Italian espresso with a super dark and strong blend. In reality, this roast is not dark at all. If you prefer a darker roast, I recommend trying Lavazza's Qualita Rossa. This blend, one of the company's most renowned, incorporates a significant amount of robusta beans, resulting in a strong coffee with less acidity and subtle flavors. The focus here is on crema, texture, and mouthfeel. It embodies the very essence of a traditional espresso!"

According to Tasting Table, "Although Starbucks holds the title for popularizing espresso in America, it's important to remember that Italy is the birthplace of this coffee-making technique. And if you ever need a reminder, just grab a bag of Lavazza from your local store shelves. From the moment you scoop the grounds to the final sip, these beans transport you to the heart of cappuccino culture. Lavazza coffees are known for their intensity, with each roast clearly labeled on the intensity scale. The Classico roast is highly sought after, but it is the Gran Selezione that reigns supreme. With its chocolate-forward accents, this morning cup invites you to savor every moment. While it might register a 7 on the intensity scale, its taste is truly a 10 out of 10. Other blends may fall lower on the intensity scale but still deliver robust flavor comparable to a genuine espresso. Surprisingly, a daily espresso actually contains less caffeine and lower acidity than a daily coffee, which may come as a pleasant surprise to home espresso machine owners.

Premium Coffee Blends from Partner's Coffee Roasters in Brooklyn

Pros:

•  The Partner's Brooklyn roast offers a balanced flavor profile.
•  It is a medium roast, making it suitable for a wide range of coffee preferences.

Cons:

Ever since I discovered Partner's Brooklyn roast from Partner's Coffee Roasters, I have been incorporating it into my daily coffee routine. This particular blend is meticulously crafted to achieve a balanced flavor profile, with hints of milk chocolate and toffee that create a delightful drinking experience. What sets it apart is that it strikes the perfect balance without being overpowering. It makes for an excellent pour-over coffee that kickstarts my mornings with its smooth and flavorful taste.

Best Budget Option

Dunkin' Original Blend Medium Roast

Best Budget Option

Starbucks Breakfast Blend

Best Budget Runner-Up

Mayorga Organics Coffee Cafe Cubano

Best for Cold Brew

Starbucks Espresso Roast

Best For Espresso

Intelligentsia Black Cat Espresso

Best For Espresso Runner-Up

La Colombe Nizza Medium Roast

Best Medium Roast (Sweet)

Tandem Coffee Roasters Stoker

Best Medium Roast (Smooth)

Peet's Coffee Major Dickason's Blend

Best Dark Roast

Death Wish Coffee Co. Dark Roast

Best Dark Roast Runner-Up

Lavazza Dek Whole Bean Coffee Blend

Best Decaf For Espresso

Allegro Coffee Organic Italian Roast

Best Value

Chamberlain Coffee Fluffy Lamb Vanilla Blend

Best Medium Roast

Caffe Vita Queen City

Indulge in the exceptional taste of Caffe Vita Queen City, a medium-dark roast that offers a truly satisfying coffee experience. With its robust flavor and well-balanced profile, this roast is perfect for those who appreciate the finer qualities of a rich and full-bodied cup of coffee.

Onyx Coffee Lab El Salvador Santa Rosa Washed

Experience the luxurious flavors of Onyx Coffee Lab El Salvador Santa Rosa Washed. Every step of the process, from picking the beans to the final blend, is carefully crafted to ensure the perfect cup of coffee. With its delightful notes of rose, white grape, fig, and black tea, this roast is sure to captivate your taste buds.

Pros:

• Transparent pricing
• Brand pays 3-4x more than Fair Trade standard

Cons:

• Expensive

Discover the exceptional qualities of Onyx Coffee Lab El Salvador Santa Rosa Washed. The dedicated team behind this roast collaborated with local partners to create a blend that showcases the best features of the coffee beans. With its full, roasted flavor and balanced acidity, this coffee is a true delight. Whether enjoyed on its own as a drip coffee or incorporated into a creative recipe, such as a vanilla latte with a hint of cinnamon, this roast is sure to impress.

The term "washed" refers to the coffee's processing method. During fermentation, the beans are submerged in water for 12-36 hours, resulting in the breakdown of the outer layer and easier drying. After fermentation, the coffee is washed to remove the remaining outer fruit layer. Finally, it is spread out to dry in the sun. This meticulous process enhances the quality and depth of the flavors in each cup.

Roast: Medium

Size: 10 oz

Origin: El Salvador

Manufacturer tasting notes: Rose, white grape, fig, black tea

Pros:

• Offered in different grind sizes to suit your coffee machine
• Transparent pricing

Cons:

• Expensive

Enjoy the luxurious flavors of a decaf coffee that surpasses expectations. Despite the removal of most of the caffeine, these beans retain their incredible taste and aroma. Tasters were amazed by the rich, roasted scent and distinct chocolatey flavor, which was described as "stronger" than other decaf options. One taster even compared the fermented, malted flavor to that of a stout beer. This decaf coffee proves that a caffeine concentration isn't necessary for a truly complex and delicious cup.

The Coffee Project NY is an impressive company, owned by women and latinx entrepreneurs. Its founder, Jen Apodaca, has achieved recognition in the coffee industry, being the runner-up in the 2022 Roasters Championship and the winner of the 2019 Cup Tasting category at the U.S. Coffee Championships.

Roast: Medium

Size: 10 oz.

Origin: Cajamarca, Peru

Manufacturer tasting notes: Chocolate malted ice cream

Pros:

• Performs well in multiple brewing methods
• Great for drinkers who enjoy a slightly sweet, yet strong, cup

Cons:

• Expensive

Immerse yourself in the delightful flavors of Blue Bottle Coffee Hayes Valley Espresso. These beans excel in various brewing methods and deliver a truly satisfying coffee experience. However, they truly shine when brewed using a French press. This brewing technique involves steeping coarsely ground beans in hot water before pressing on the grounds, resulting in a strong and luxurious coffee. The vanilla-scented and lightly sweet flavors of this blend perfectly complement the robust flavor and creamy mouthfeel created by the French press method.

Named after the San Francisco neighborhood that houses Blue Bottle Coffee's first-ever brick-and-mortar location, Hayes Valley Espresso is their darkest roast. It features deeply roasted notes with a subtle hint of acidity, showcasing the expertise and passion of the brand's master roasters.

Roast: Dark

Size: 6 oz., 12 oz.

Origin: N/A

Manufacturer tasting notes: Baking chocolate, orange zest, brown sugar

Pros:

• Make-ahead
• Available in multiple quantities

Cons:

• Not recommended for hot coffee drinkers

Experience the wonderful flavors of Coffee Project NY 32 Degrees Cold Brew Coffee Beans. While any coffee bean can technically be used for cold brew, this specific blend is designed to enhance the cold brewing process. The coffee beans are carefully selected and profiled to ensure optimal solubility for cold brewing. This results in a low-acidity, smooth, and delightful cup of coffee with notes of sweetness, chocolate, and a hint of fruitiness.

Making cold brew coffee is easy with a cold brew coffee maker, but it can also be prepared without one. Simply combine coarsely ground coffee and cold water in a covered container, refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours, then strain and enjoy. Cold brew coffee is an excellent make-ahead option, perfect for busy mornings.

Roast: Cold brew

Size: 10 oz., 2 lb., 5 lb.

Origin: N/A

Manufacturer tasting notes: Dark chocolate, vanilla, cinnamon, brown sugar, stone fruit. Low acidity, creamy body.

What to look for when shopping for coffee beans

✔?? Roast Type: When choosing coffee beans, consider the roast type. Specialty roasters often prefer light roast beans as they highlight the unique characteristics of the beans. Light roasts are known for their sweetness and balanced acidity, while dark roasts offer bolder flavors with less acidity. Medium roasts fall between the two. It's important to note that dark-roasted beans have a shorter shelf life and should be consumed fresh.

✔?? Roast Date: When purchasing coffee beans from specialty roasters, look for a roast date on the bag. A more recent roast date indicates fresher coffee. Larger commodity roasters usually provide a "best-by" date, which doesn't indicate freshness but rather the date until the coffee is considered fine to drink. However, to ensure the best flavor and aroma, rely on your senses and consume coffee within a reasonable timeframe.

✔?? Price: The price of coffee beans often reflects the attention and care given to each step of production, including growing, harvesting, and roasting. Higher-priced beans are typically of higher quality and may offer more complex and balanced flavors. Paying more can also provide insight into the bean's origin, such as coffee from Ethiopia versus Kenya. While great coffee can be found at various price points, it's important to note that lower-priced options may not deliver the same level of complexity and balance.

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How to store coffee beans

To preserve the freshness of your coffee beans, store them in an airtight container in a dark, non-humid location at room temperature. If your coffee comes in an unlined paper bag, transfer it to an airtight container for long-term storage. For coffee packaged in a thick, foil-lined bag with a valve, you can keep it in the original bag until you're ready to open it. Avoid refrigerating coffee, as the moisture and odors in the fridge can negatively affect its flavor and freshness. However, freezing coffee in fully airtight bags is a viable option. You can even brew coffee directly from frozen beans!

How to grind coffee beans

For the best-tasting coffee, experts like James Hoffman recommend using a burr grinder. Burr grinders produce a more consistent grind, resulting in a better overall flavor and balance in your cup of coffee. Blade grinders, on the other hand, tend to create uneven grinds with large and fine pieces, leading to a less pleasant consistency and taste. Burr grinders also allow for more control over the grind size, which is crucial as different brewing methods require different grind sizes. For example, French press coffee requires a coarser grind compared to espresso. It's important to grind your coffee just before brewing to preserve freshness, as ground coffee can quickly lose its flavors and aromas.

In conclusion, when it comes to finding the best whole bean coffees, there are plenty of options out there to suit every preference and brewing method. Whether you're looking for a rich and bold dark roast or a smooth and vibrant light roast, the top quality brands mentioned in this article are sure to satisfy your coffee cravings. From Kicking Horse Coffee's Kick Ass Dark Roast to Stumptown Coffee Roasters' Hair Bender Dark Roast, there's something for everyone. Remember to consider factors such as origin, flavor notes, and roast level when shopping for coffee beans, and don't forget to store them properly and grind them just before brewing for the best taste and freshness. So go ahead, explore the world of top quality whole bean coffees and elevate your coffee experience to a whole new level.