9 Best Italian Espresso Beans of 2026

Silky crema lovers, rejoice—Lavazza Super Crema delivers a luxuriously creamy espresso experience that’s rare at this price point. The Arabica and Robusta blend (with a slight Robusta kick) produces a bold, full-bodied shot with a velvety mouthfeel and a rich, honeyed sweetness that lingers. Engineered for consistency, this medium roast is a go-to for those who prioritize crema thickness and smooth finish over complex acidity, making it ideal for milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos. If you’re tired of thin, bitter espresso, this blend solves that with balanced intensity and natural sweetness.

In real-world testing, the 2.2 lb bag proves excellent value, grinding evenly and extracting beautifully in both home and semi-professional espresso machines. The 35.2 oz capacity means fewer reorders, and the medium roast profile adapts well to various grind settings, pulling shots with consistent crema and a rounded, syrupy body. It performs admirably in moka pots too, though it lacks the bright acidity some prefer in filter brewing. While it doesn’t dazzle with floral or fruity high notes, it excels in reliability, especially for daily drinkers who want a rich, comforting shot without fuss.

Compared to the more delicate Illy Classico, Lavazza Super Crema is the bolder, more robust sibling—less about nuanced aromatics, more about body and texture. It’s a direct competitor to Caffè Borbone in strength, but with a smoother, less aggressive finish. Ideal for espresso purists who want consistent, café-style crema at home, it strikes a smart balance between richness and drinkability. It doesn’t chase complexity, but nails the fundamentals better than most in its class.

Elegant and refined, Illy Classico is the gold standard for aromatic finesse in Italian espresso beans. Sourced from 100% Arabica beans, this medium roast unfolds with delicate notes of caramel, orange blossom, and jasmine—a sensory journey that elevates every shot into a ritual. The single-origin consistency and precision roast profile deliver a balanced, clean cup with a sweet aftertaste, making it perfect for those who savor floral complexity over brute strength. If your espresso machine doubles as a flavor laboratory, this bean is your muse.

During testing, Illy Classico shone brightest in espresso and stovetop brewing, where its aromatic clarity remains intact without turning sharp or sour. The 8.8 oz can, while smaller than competitors, ensures peak freshness—critical for preserving its fragile floral notes. It produces a thin but glossy crema and a lighter body, which some may find less satisfying in milk drinks. It struggles slightly in French press, where its subtlety gets overshadowed, but in a well-tuned machine, it delivers a harmonious, tea-like elegance that few blends can match.

Priced higher per ounce than Lavazza or Borbone, Illy competes on purity and terroir expression, not volume or boldness. Compared to Lavazza Espresso (100% Arabica), it’s more aromatic but less full-bodied—a trade-off between depth and delicacy. It’s the ideal choice for discerning drinkers who value aromatic precision and want a true Italian café experience at home. While it doesn’t pack a punch, it offers sophistication that lingers long after the sip.

Engineered for espresso machines, Lavazza Barista Gran Crema is a dark roast powerhouse built for high-pressure extraction. With an intensity of 7/10 and aromatic notes of honey and roasted coffee, this Arabica-Robusta blend delivers a full-bodied, robust shot that stands up to milk and sugar without fading. The 35.2 oz bag offers serious longevity, and the consistent grind tolerance makes it a favorite for home baristas using semi-automatic machines. If you want Italian strength with modern reliability, this bean delivers.

In real-world use, it extracts with thick, golden crema and a toasty, slightly sweet profile that avoids harsh bitterness—thanks to Lavazza’s controlled dark roast. It performs flawlessly in super-automatic and bean-to-cup machines, where its blend stability shines. However, in pour-over or French press, the low acidity and heavy body can feel one-dimensional. It’s less aromatic than lighter roasts, but that’s by design: this bean is optimized for espresso mechanics, not multi-method versatility.

Stacked against Lavazza Super Crema, Gran Crema is darker, stronger, and more intense, trading some creaminess for deeper roast character. It’s less floral than Illy but more structured than Caffè Borbone. Ideal for those who pull multiple daily shots and need a machine-friendly, no-nonsense blend that tastes like Italy. It doesn’t dazzle with nuance, but dominates in consistency and machine synergy.

Deep, indulgent, and aromatic, Lavazza Gran Riserva is a dark roast masterpiece built for those who crave velvety texture and rich aroma. With notes of maple syrup and walnuts, this Italian-roasted blend delivers a luxurious mouthfeel and a long, satisfying finish that lingers like a fine digestif. The 2.2 lb bag offers exceptional value for high-volume users, and the nut-free facility production adds peace of mind for sensitive consumers. If your ideal espresso feels like liquid dessert, this bean is a top contender.

In performance, Gran Riserva pulls dense, amber crema and extracts with a smooth, syrupy body that resists bitterness—even at higher temperatures. It’s particularly strong in double espressos and flat whites, where its roasty sweetness complements milk beautifully. While it lacks the floral lift of lighter roasts, it compensates with depth and warmth. It’s less effective in drip or cold brew, where its low acidity can feel flat, but in an espresso machine, it unfolds like a well-aged wine.

Compared to Filicori Zecchini Forte, Gran Riserva is sweeter and more approachable, trading some boldness for refined balance. It’s pricier than most Lavazza offerings but justifies it with premium roast development and sensory richness. Best suited for espresso traditionalists who want authentic Italian depth without harsh edges. It’s more aromatic and smoother than Caffè Borbone, making it a superior choice for flavor-forward enthusiasts.

Bold, budget-friendly, and unapologetically strong, Caffè Borbone Espresso Intenso is the workhorse of Italian beans—delivering high-octane flavor without the premium price. This Robusta-heavy blend punches above its weight with a creamy, intense shot that holds up in lattes and macchiatos. At 2.2 lb, the bag offers serious value, and the Neapolitan roast tradition ensures a consistent, full-bodied experience across brew methods. If you want power and affordability, this bean delivers in spades.

Testing reveals it excels in moka pots and espresso machines, where its high Robusta content generates thick crema and a biting strength that wakes up the palate. It’s less nuanced than Arabica-dominant blends, with earthy, woody notes dominating over fruit or florals. In French press, it becomes almost syrupy—ideal for those who like their coffee dark and heavy. However, its low acidity and aggressive roast may overwhelm sensitive palates, and it lacks the aromatic finesse of pricier options.

Pitted against Lavazza Super Crema, Borbone is bolder but rougher, sacrificing smoothness for raw intensity. It’s not as refined as Illy or Filicori, but it’s a smart pick for high-volume households or offices. Ideal for budget-conscious espresso lovers who prioritize strength and value over subtlety. It may not win awards for elegance, but it dominates in sheer impact per dollar.

Bright, fragrant, and aromatic, Lavazza Espresso (100% Arabica) is a sensory standout for those who love floral and fruity notes in their morning shot. With a 5/10 intensity, this medium roast strikes a rare balance—light enough to reveal terroir, bold enough for espresso. The blend of South American and African beans delivers a sweet, perfumed cup with hints of citrus and blossom, making it a favorite for filter and espresso hybrid users. If you want Italian authenticity with modern brightness, this bean delivers.

In real-world use, it shines across espresso, moka pot, and drip, producing a clean, vibrant shot with a floral lift that few Italian roasts offer. The 2.2 lb bag ensures longevity, and the low Robusta content means no harsh aftertaste. However, the crema is thinner than Robusta-blended options, and milk drinks can mute its delicate notes. It’s not the strongest choice for cappuccinos, but for straight shots or Americanos, it offers aromatic clarity that sings.

Compared to Illy Classico, it’s more affordable and slightly fruitier, though less caramel-sweet. Against Lavazza Super Crema, it’s lighter and more nuanced, trading body for floral complexity. Best for adventurous drinkers who want aromatic depth without sacrificing Italian roast tradition. It may not be the creamiest, but it’s the most expressive in its category.

Gentle, smooth, and stomach-friendly, Filicori Zecchini Delicato is the best choice for sensitive drinkers who refuse to compromise on flavor. This low-acidity, medium roast blend of Arabica and Robusta delivers a silky-smooth espresso with notes of hazelnut and milk chocolate—rich without the burn. Slow-roasted in Bologna and sealed in one-way valve bags, it arrives fresh and aromatic, preserving the century-old craftsmanship of a family-run roastery. If acid reflux has kept you from enjoying espresso, this bean is a game-changer.

In testing, Delicato performed flawlessly across espresso machines, moka pots, and French presses, producing a thick crema and balanced body without sharp edges. The 340g bag is smaller but ensures peak freshness, and the slow roast process minimizes bitterness while enhancing sweetness. It lacks the boldness of dark roasts, but that’s not the goal—this is refined, easy-drinking espresso for daily enjoyment. Even on an empty stomach, it feels gentle and nourishing.

Compared to Lavazza Gran Riserva, Delicato is lighter and less intense, but far kinder to digestion. It’s more aromatic than Caffè Borbone and smoother than Kimbo. Ideal for health-conscious drinkers or those transitioning from commercial coffee. While not the strongest, it offers unmatched comfort and consistency for sensitive systems.

Floral and sweet, Kimbo Espresso Napoli is a hidden gem from Naples, offering pleasant floral notes and fresh-baked biscuit aroma in a medium-dark roast. Blended and roasted in Italy, this Arabica-Robusta mix delivers a well-balanced, full-bodied cup with a surprising lift of jasmine-like brightness—rare in traditional Italian blends. At 12 oz, it’s smaller than most, but the authentic Neapolitan roast ensures rich flavor and sweet finish across multiple brew methods.

In practice, it excels in moka pots and drip, where its floral nuances remain intact. In espresso, it produces a moderate crema and a smooth, slightly sweet shot, though it lacks the intensity of heavier Robusta blends. It’s less effective in French press, where the body thins out. Still, for those who want Italian tradition with a floral twist, it’s a refreshing alternative to the usual dark, smoky profiles.

Versus Illy Classico, Kimbo is less caramel-forward but more floral, with a biscuity warmth that evokes fresh pastries. It’s not as strong as Lavazza’s offerings, but more aromatically interesting than most budget beans. Best for drinkers who enjoy light complexity in their espresso and appreciate regional Italian craftsmanship. It may not dominate in strength, but it wins in character and charm.

The complete package, Filicori Zecchini Forte is the best overall Italian espresso bean—a bold, dark roast that balances power and polish like no other. With notes of dark chocolate and toasted almond, this slow-roasted Arabica-Robusta blend delivers a full-bodied, intense shot with zero harshness, thanks to small-batch roasting in Bologna. The 2.2 lb bag offers longevity, and the thick, persistent crema confirms its barista-grade quality. If you want maximum impact without compromise, this is the pinnacle.

In testing, Forte dominated in espresso machines, pulling rich, oily shots with a lingering, bittersweet finish. It adapts well to milk drinks, where its roasty depth shines, and even works in French press with a chocolatey body. Unlike many bold roasts, it avoids acrid bitterness—a testament to its masterful roast profile. The high price reflects its artisanal production, but the consistency and depth justify it.

Compared to Lavazza Gran Riserva, Forte is bolder and more complex, with greater aromatic depth. Against Caffè Borbone, it’s smoother and more refined, despite similar strength. Ideal for serious espresso enthusiasts who want Italian authenticity, modern quality, and zero stomach distress. It’s the most complete, well-rounded bean in the lineup—worth every penny.