Discovering the Ultimate Freshness: Unveiling the Best Coffee Bean Finds Across the Globe
Are you ready to embark on a flavorful journey, exploring the depths of the world's best coffee beans? If you're a coffee connoisseur who craves that perfect cup with every sip, then you've come to the right place. In this article, we will delve into the enchanting realm of coffee, unveiling the secrets behind the best coffee bean freshness. From ranking the top 10 best coffee beans in the world to discovering where to buy them, we'll navigate through the intricacies of origin, flavor, roasting, and much more. So, grab your favorite mug, and prepare to indulge in a caffeinated adventure like no other!
Criteria for Ranking Each Country's Coffee Bean
It has been 120 days since I informed him that I would use the money to taste-test coffees from different countries and brands around the world.
The good news? I have indeed accomplished that and have now come to a conclusion on the best coffee beans in the world.
The criteria I utilized to make this judgment are as follows:
- Speciality coffee grading system (SCA)
- Flavor profile
- Taste
- Aroma
- Ability to adapt to various brewing methods
- The freshness of the coffee beans
- Reviews from individuals who have ordered these coffee beans
P.S: I taste-tested over 100 coffee beans during the 120-day period, and only 20 made it to the list of the best coffee beans in the world by country.
I also ensured that the best grind for coffee beans is taken into consideration. After all, you can't fully enjoy your coffee without the perfect grind size.
Below, I will focus more on those beans with a detailed analysis of my brewing process, the results, and how they performed according to the grading criteria mentioned above.
Top 10 Best Coffee Beans In The World
My journey to find the best coffee beans in the world took me from the mountains of Ethiopia to the lush forests of Colombia. With every sip of freshly brewed coffee made from these beans, I couldn't help but appreciate the unique characteristics that come from the climate, soil, and other factors of each location. Through my experiment, I learned that only the freshest and highest quality beans from exotic places are worth trying.
As for the rest, not only do they sometimes taste like burnt liquid, but they're also not good for your health. So let's dive into the list of the ten best coffee beans in the world based on my screening criteria, so you can discover which ones are worth trying.
1. Finca Santa Teresa, Mexico
Coffee Name: Rotate Espresso
Coffee Brand: Balance Coffee
If you were to ask me what my favorite coffee in the world is, I would enthusiastically say the Rotate Espresso from Balance Coffee! While it may seem like an easy choice, a lot of thought and analysis went into it.
The Rotate Espresso is one of the first medium-dark roast single-origin coffees I tried from Balance Coffee. As someone who prioritizes sourcing specialty-grade, 100% Arabica coffee, I was specifically looking for the best coffee beans for Espresso. One of the coffee farmers I work with recommended the Finca Santa Teresa farm in Mexico, and despite my initial hesitation, I decided to give it a try.
After traveling to Mexico and visiting the Finca Santa Teresa farm, I tasted the coffee and fell in love with its vibrant notes of dark chocolate and cranberries.
How I Brewed The Finca Santa Teresa, Mexico Beans
For my taste-testing experiment, I brewed the Rotate Espresso using my mum's Sage espresso coffee machine and grinder. After grinding the beans finely, I used 18g of ground coffee in the Sage Espresso portafilter handle to get a yield of 36g in the cup. After around 30 seconds, the hissing sound of the coffee machine indicated that my mouth-watering coffee was ready.
And it was perfect.
The Final Verdict on Finca Santa Teresa Coffee Beans
As soon as I took a sip of the Rotate Espresso, I was transported back to the verdant hills of Mexico. The beans produced a rich, robust, and velvety Espresso with notes of dark chocolate and cranberries. The speciality-grade and premium quality of these beans truly shine through in their taste and aroma.
I also brewed these coffee beans in a French Press and Aeropress, and the result was just as amazing. But don't just take my word for it; these coffee beans have raving customer reviews. So why not give them a try? Plus, the Rotate Espresso comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so it's a risk-free purchase. These are truly the best coffee beans in the world for espresso.
Find out more about the Rotate Espresso by Balance Coffee.
2. Tolima, Colombia
Coffee Name: San Fermin
Coffee Brand: Origin Coffee
After trying Yirgacheffe, I decided to explore coffee from Tolima, Colombia. I had heard great things about the fine and organic coffee produced in this region. Based on recommendations, I chose the San Fermin coffee made from Tolima coffee beans and purchased it from Origin Coffee, a well-known brand in the world of specialty coffee.
I was particularly excited to try Tolima coffee beans because they are known for their unique sweetness. I ordered the ground beans for convenience, but I would recommend purchasing whole beans for a fresher flavor.
If you're unsure about how to use different brewing methods, I recommend checking out these coffee brewing guides.
How I Brewed Tolima Colombia
For brewing Tolima coffee, I chose the Aeropress method as it is a quick and convenient way to make specialty-grade coffee at home. I used approximately 16.5g of coffee mixed with 250 ml of water in my Aeropress machine. After one minute, I flipped the machine and pressed it down for 30 seconds until it was empty.
After brewing the ground coffee in the Aeropress, I was delighted by the flavors of orange sherbet, caramel, and berries. It was a unique and pleasant experience.
The Final Verdict on Tolima Colombia
I thoroughly enjoyed the Tolima Colombia coffee, just as my colleague had hinted. It had a beautiful flavor profile, a delightful aroma, and a medium body that was just right for me. These speciality-grade coffee beans also received positive reviews from customers.
Find out more about San Fermin by Origin Coffee.
3. Yirgacheffe Natural and Organic, Ethiopia
Coffee Name: Yirgacheffe Natural and Organic
Coffee Brand: Union Roasted
Ethiopia is known as the birthplace of coffee, and Yirgacheffe is renowned for producing some of the best coffee in the world. So, of course, I had to include it in my taste-testing. I ordered the Yirgacheffe Natural and Organic coffee beans from Union Roasted, one of the top players in the coffee industry.
I have tried many Union Roasted coffee beans before, and they have never disappointed me. This time was no exception. I love Ethiopian Yirgacheffe coffee for its bright acidity and complex flavor notes, and Union's version exceeded my expectations with its refreshing, delicious, and zesty taste.
How I Brewed Yirgacheffe Natural and Organic?
Quick research informed me that I could brew these coffee beans as either a filter coffee or using a Cafetiere. I decided to start with a filter coffee.
After grinding the coffee beans, I poured hot water over them, allowing the water to extract the flavors before passing through the filter to separate the grounds from the liquid. The result was a clean and flavorful cup of coffee.
I was impressed with the vibrant acidity and floral-tasting notes of the Yirgacheffe Natural and Organic coffee. It gave me the energy I needed to start my day.
The Final Verdict on Yirgacheffe Natural and Organic
The flavor profile, taste, and aroma of this coffee were like a burst of vibrant energy. I particularly enjoyed the combination of peach, toffee, and kumquat in its flavor profile. These exceptional coffee beans are suitable for brewing as filter coffee or espresso. Customers love Yirgacheffe coffee from Ethiopia for its unique taste and bright acidity.
Find out more about Yirgacheffe Organic by Union Roasted.
4. Finca, El Salvador
- Coffee Name: Piemonte - El Salvador
- Coffee Brand: Volcano Coffee Works
My research led me to discover that El Salvador is known for producing some of the best and award-winning coffee due to its rich volcanic soil. After further investigation, I decided to reserve coffee beans from Finca, El Salvador, for my taste-testing. I ordered the Piemonte El Salvador coffee beans from Volcano Coffee Works to give Salvadoran coffee a try.
On the fifteenth day of my taste-testing, the coffee beans arrived. It had been a while since I had enjoyed a mouthwatering cappuccino, and I had a feeling these beans would do the trick. And they absolutely did!
The Finca beans produced a spectacular Espresso with notes of toasted almonds, toffee, and cherry. You could tell that the beans had been freshly roasted before delivery, adding an extra touch of excellence.
How I Brewed The Finca El Salvador?
For my brewing method, I decided to indulge in a rich Espresso shot mixed with steamed milk for a creamy cappuccino. I used my grinder to grind the beans, followed by my Espresso machine to brew the shot, and finished by steaming some milk. Just the usual routine for an exceptional coffee experience.
The Final Verdict on Finca El Salvador
I loved the lingering notes of toasted almonds, toffee, cherry, and toffee in this coffee. The beans are sourced from a farm owned by Rodolfo Battle in Finca, El Salvador, where farmers are paid 50-180% above fair trade to ensure the sustainability of the coffee industry. These light to medium roast beans perfectly complement their sweet flavor profile.
These speciality-grade beans are roasted in small batches in Brixton and are best brewed as an Espresso, in my opinion. While there are limited online reviews for these beans, the ones available are highly positive.
Find out more about Piemonte El Salvador from Volcano Coffee Works.
5. San Ignacio, Belize
- Coffee Brand: Caravan Coffee Roasters
With high expectations, I purchased the San Ignacio coffee beans from Caravan Coffee Roasters. I knew this brand only sources and delivers the best specialty coffee, so I was confident that these beans would be amazing too.
I reserved tasting these beans for the third week of my experiment to ensure that I could fully appreciate their unique qualities without mixing up my coffee experiences.
For brewing, I decided to go with a filter coffee using the Ana Maria method. The end result was truly fantastic, with a delicate, clean taste.
How I Brewed The San Ignacio, Belize.
I chose to use my Chemex for brewing these coffee beans as it allows for a high level of precision. After grinding the beans, I placed them in the filter and poured hot water over it. The water cascaded over the ground coffee, infusing the air in my kitchen with enticing aromas. After five minutes, I had a hot cup of filter coffee ready to enjoy.
The Final Verdict on San Ignacio, Belize
It's hard not to love the lingering notes of peach, pistachio, and white chocolate in this coffee. The brewing method may not offer much flexibility, but it produces a smashing mug of filter coffee that coffee enthusiasts can truly appreciate. With excellent customer ratings on various platforms, including TrustPilot, these beans have certainly made a mark.
Find out more about Ana Maria by Caravan Coffee Roasters.
6. Blue Mountain, Jamaica
- Coffee Name: Jamaica Blue Mountain Wallenford
- Coffee Brand: Volcanica Coffee
For the fourth week of my taste-testing, I decided to explore coffee beans from the famous Blue Mountain region in Jamaica. I had seen countless coffee enthusiasts flaunting their delicious cups of Blue Mountain coffee on social media. After doing some research on the best brands that sell Blue Mountain coffee, I chose Volcanica Coffee, a brand known for stocking 100% authentic Blue Mountain beans.
Not only did I receive top-quality medium roast whole beans, but I could also tell from the aroma that the beans had been freshly roasted. As expected, the delivery process was smooth and seamless.
How I Brewed Blue Mountain Jamaica
Based on customer recommendations, I chose the pour-over brewing method to highlight the natural sweetness and acidity of the Blue Mountain beans. The precision of the process, from grinding the beans to pouring the water, added to the anticipation of my Sunday pour-over ritual.
As the water cascaded over the ground coffee, my kitchen filled with enticing aromas. The first sip of the pour-over coffee was pure bliss.
The Final Verdict on Blue Mountain Jamaica
One of the best things about this coffee is its crisp chocolate and orange peel flavor when brewed as a pour-over. These beans are also adaptable to other brewing methods like pour-over brewers such as the Hario V60 or Chemex. Customers love Blue Mountain coffee so much that it is widely considered the world's best coffee.
Find out more about Blue Mountain Jamaica Coffee by Volcanica Coffee.
7. Bourbon, Brazil
- Coffee Name: Bourbon Cream Espresso
- Coffee Brand: Pact Coffee
In the fifth week of my taste-testing journey, I was craving a mouth-watering Espresso. That's when I turned to one of my favorite brands, Pact Coffee, for their Bourbon Cream Espresso. This blend, made from Bourbon beans sourced from Brazil and Colombia, is Pact's bestseller.
Pact Coffee is known for offering some of the best coffee beans in the UK. All their coffees are 100% speciality-grade, roasted just days before ordering, and ethically sourced. Plus, they offer free next-day delivery, so I received my Bourbon Cream Espresso promptly.
After letting the coffee beans sit for a couple of days, I finally indulged in a cup on a fine Sunday morning.
How I Brewed Bourbon
For brewing Bourbon coffee beans, I settled on the French Press method. It is the ideal brewing method to bring out the natural sweetness and acidity of the beans. I ground the beans, heated the water to approximately 93 degrees, and brewed the coffee for four minutes.
The coffee tasted like Bourbon and cream biscuits, adding the perfect kick to my Sunday. It had a full mouthfeel, and the refined sugar's sweetness was evident.
The Final Verdict
Bourbon coffee beans are flexible and can be brewed using the pour-over method as well. They have a natural sweetness with a mild and creamy acidity, making them perfect for those who prefer mild and sweet Espressos. These beans have received stellar reviews online.
Find out more about the Bourbon Cream Espresso by Pact Coffee.
8. Kona Coffee, Hawaii
- Coffee Name: Estate Kona Coffee
- Coffee Brand: Koa Coffee
In the fourth week of my taste-testing experiment, I purchased Kona coffee beans from Koa without knowing exactly what to expect. After doing a Google search for the best brands that sell Kona coffee, Koa Coffee caught my attention.
I must say, the delivery process was incredibly smooth, and I received medium roast whole beans.
The aroma was a clear indicator that Koa had delivered fresh roasted coffee beans. And what happened next? Just an exceptional coffee experience.
How I Brewed Kona Coffee
After doing some research, I found that the pour-over brewing method was recommended for these Kona beans. I took great care in grinding the beans, heating the water, and setting the stage for my Sunday pour-over ritual.
As the water cascaded over the coffee grounds, the enticing aromas filled my kitchen. The first sip of the pour-over coffee was nothing short of pure bliss.
The Final Verdict on Kona Coffee
One of the best things about this coffee is the crisp blend of chocolate and orange peel flavors when brewed using the pour-over method. These beans are also suitable for brewing with other methods such as pour-over brewers like the Hario V60 or Chemex. Customers adore Kona coffee, and it is widely regarded as one of the world's best coffees.
Find out more about Estate Kona Coffee by Koa Coffee.
What are the Best Coffee Beans in the World?
It took me 120 days and around £1231 to come up with a list of the best coffee beans in the world. But I'll give you a quick rundown of my top three picks in less than five minutes!
After rigorous testing, Rotate Espresso, San Fermin, and Yirgacheffe Organic made it to the top three.
Hurry and click the "Shop Now" button to indulge in exquisite coffee from these brands and enjoy lightning-fast delivery! Plus, get an instant £5 off your purchase for a limited time only!
| Product | Benefits | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|
Rotate Espresso  |
| Shop & Save £5 |
San Fermin  |
| Shop Now |
Yirgacheffe Organic  |
| Shop Now |
1. Finca Santa Teresa, Mexico
Highlights:
I first tasted these beans when setting up Balance Coffee in 2020, and I included them in the taste-test experiment to ensure fairness.
As an Espresso aficionado, I judged Rotate Espresso purely on its flavor to see if it fit our range.
It's important to note that I have very high standards when it comes to tasting and scoring coffees.
Rotate Espresso is made from 100% Arabica beans of speciality-grade. These beans are fully washed and grown at an altitude of 1200 – 1800 MASL in Finca Santa Teresa, Mexico.
I brewed a rich mug of Espresso using these beans, and the result was mind-blowing!
After years of claiming he didn't enjoy speciality coffee, I successfully converted my Dad to these beans. Now he orders Rotate Espresso on a monthly subscription service. So what's so great about these beans? They have a rich medium-dark roast type with flavor notes of dark chocolate and cranberry, making them perfect for both Espresso and filter coffee.
Buy the Right Amount
Coffee starts to lose its freshness immediately after roasting. It's best to purchase smaller batches of freshly roasted coffee more frequently, enough for one or two weeks.
Exposure to air is detrimental to the beans. If you prefer to use an attractive container, it's recommended to divide your coffee supply into smaller portions and keep the unused portion in an airtight container.
This is especially important when buying pre-ground coffee as it has higher exposure to oxygen. If you purchase whole beans, grind only the amount you need right before brewing.
RELATED: Coffee Roast Guide
Where to Buy the Best Coffee Beans in the World?
You can buy the best coffee beans in the world, including Rotate Espresso and Yirgacheffe Natural, from the official stores of Balance Coffee and Union Roasted, respectively.
All the coffee beans at Balance Coffee are 100% speciality-grade, Arabica, and free of coffee nasties such as mycotoxins and pesticides.
The Best Coffee Beans in the World Sold on Amazon
If you're looking for the best coffee beans in the world sold on Amazon, wait no longer! Below, you'll find the top 10 best coffee beans sold on Amazon in ascending order.
But if you're specifically looking for the best coffee beans on Amazon in the UK, my article on the best coffee beans on Amazon UK has got you covered.
So go ahead and treat yourself!
- Lavazza Super Crema Whole Bean Coffee Blend
- Starbucks Espresso Dark Roast Whole Bean Coffee
- AmazonFresh Colombia Whole Bean Coffee, Medium Roast, 32 Ounce
- San Francisco Bay Whole Bean Coffee - DECAF Gourmet Blend (2lb Bag), Medium Roast, Swiss Water Processed
- Peet's Coffee Major Dickason's Blend, Dark Roast Whole Bean Coffee
- Stumptown Coffee Roasters, Medium Roast, Organic Whole Bean Coffee
- Illy Classico Whole Bean Coffee, Medium Roast, Classic Roast with Notes Of Caramel, Orange Blossom and Jasmine, 100% Arabica Coffee
- Bones Coffee Company S'morey Time Ground Coffee Beans S'mores and Graham Crackers Flavor
- Starbucks Medium Roast Whole Bean Coffee — Pike Place — 100% Arabica — 1 bag (28 oz)
- Eight O'Clock Coffee Dark Italian Espresso, Dark Roast, Whole Bean Coffee, 32 Ounce (Pack of 1), 100% Arabica, Kosher Certified
Bonus: More Amazing Coffee Regions For You
Congratulations! You've made it to the end of this ultimate guide on the best coffee beans in the world. And now, I will reward you by sharing ten more amazing coffee regions with you.
- Tarrazú, Costa Rica
- Sidamo, Ethiopia:
- Cauca, Colombia
- Chiapas, Mexico
- Sul de Minas, Brazil
- Aceh, Indonesia
- Mt. Elgon, Uganda
- Lam Dong, Vietnam
- Boquete, Panama
- Kintamani, Bali, Indonesia
Origin
When considering coffee beans, it's important to know which country they come from as it greatly influences the flavor and quality of the coffee. For instance, coffee from Central American countries is known for its sweetness, while African coffees tend to have complex acidity and fruity flavors.
Flavor Notes
Flavor notes refer to the specific characteristics of the coffee that you can taste or smell, such as sweetness, acidity, and body. Different coffee regions produce different flavors, so it's important to determine the flavor profile you prefer before making a purchase.
Roasting Date
The roasting date plays a crucial role in the freshness of your beans. The fresher the roast, the more vibrant and flavorful your coffee will be. Look for clearly labeled roasting dates on pre-ground coffee packages, and if you buy whole beans, consider grinding them immediately before brewing.
Bean Type
Coffee beans come in two main varieties: Arabica and Robusta. Each has its own unique flavor profile and characteristics. Arabica beans are sweeter with notes of chocolate and nuts, while Robusta beans have a stronger flavor and higher caffeine content, making them ideal for espresso-based drinks.
Roast Level
Roast levels range from light to medium to dark. Light roasts are lighter in color and have a milder flavor with more acidity, great for gentle coffees like single origins or espressos. Medium roasts have a fuller body and slightly stronger flavor, commonly found in blends and espresso drinks. Dark roasts offer a rich, intense flavor, perfect for full-bodied coffees like French press and cold brew. Choose the roast level based on your personal taste preference.
Freshness
It's important to consider the freshness of your beans before purchasing them. Coffee is an agricultural product and will eventually lose its qualities over time. Look for clearly labeled roast dates on pre-packaged coffee or ask your specialty coffee shop for the most recent batch of beans to ensure freshness.
Quality of the Bean
Bean quality is determined by factors such as flavor, cup quality, and aroma. It's important to know the level of inspection and testing done for the beans before making a purchase. Specialty-grade coffee is generally of high quality with fewer defects, while lower grades may have more noticeable flaws affecting taste and aroma.
How Long Do Coffee Beans Stay Fresh?
Coffee beans start losing freshness immediately after roasting. Green coffee beans can stay fresh for about 18 months depending on storage conditions and drying methods. Roasted coffee beans can stay fresh from one week up to three months, depending on packaging and roasting style. Ground coffee has a shorter freshness window, so it's best to grind beans right before brewing. Whole beans retain their flavors and aromas better.
How to Keep Coffee Beans Fresh at Home
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the freshness of your coffee beans. After purchasing roasted beans, store them in an airtight container to preserve their flavor. Avoid transparent containers exposed to light. Keep the container in a cool, dark place like a cupboard away from heat sources. Commercial packaging is not ideal for long-term storage, so consider investing in airtight storage canisters.
Price
The price of coffee beans can vary depending on where you buy them. Specialty stores may have higher prices but offer unique blends and single origin coffees worth the splurge. Some stores offer discounts for buying in bulk, which can be beneficial for stocking up at home.
Brewing Method
The brewing method you use plays a significant role in the type of bean that works best. Different methods require different grind sizes and contact time with water. Research the ideal grind size for your desired brewing method before selecting your beans.
How to Grind Coffee Beans
According to experts, the best way to grind coffee is to use a burr grinder. This ensures a consistent grind size and better-tasting coffee. Blade grinders can result in uneven grounds, affecting consistency. Burr grinders offer more control over grind size, which is crucial for different brewing methods. It's recommended to grind coffee right before brewing to preserve freshness and flavors.
Grind Type
The grind type, whether coarse, medium, or fine, is essential for specific brewing methods. French press and pour-over methods require different grind sizes, while espresso machines need very fine grinds for optimal extraction rates. Make sure to research the appropriate grind type for your preferred brewing method before purchasing beans.
Can Coffee Beans Go Bad?
Coffee beans can go bad if not stored properly. Storing them incorrectly can affect their freshness and taste. Signs of stale coffee beans include bad appearance and distinct odors, such as a moldy or putrid scent. Stale beans can result from the rapid release of carbon dioxide and loss of flavor. Dull aromas and lack of enticing scents indicate a decrease in freshness. Consuming coffee made with expired beans may not make you sick, but it will result in a disappointing flavor.
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing the best coffee beans in the world, there are many factors to consider. From the origin and flavor notes to the roasting date and quality of the bean, each element plays a crucial role in determining freshness and taste. By understanding how long coffee beans stay fresh and following the proper storage methods, you can ensure that you're always enjoying the highest quality brew. So, whether you're a coffee connoisseur or simply seeking a delicious cup of joe, take these tips into consideration and explore the amazing coffee regions that the world has to offer. Don't let your coffee beans go bad - savor every sip of perfection.
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