Coffee Beans & Grounds
Discover the finest coffee beans from around the world. From single-origin to blends, light to dark roasts.
About Coffee Beans & Grounds
Coffee beans are the foundation of great coffee. We review beans from around the world, testing for flavor, aroma, freshness, and value. Whether you prefer light, medium, or dark roasts, single-origin or blends, our expert reviews help you find your perfect bean.
Our tasting process involves multiple brew methods and evaluation by certified Q Graders to ensure objective assessments. Each review includes detailed tasting notes, brewing recommendations, and value analysis to help you find beans that match your taste preferences.
What to Consider When Buying
✓Roast Level
Light roasts preserve origin flavors with bright acidity. Medium roasts balance origin character with roast development. Dark roasts emphasize body and chocolate notes over origin characteristics.
✓Origin & Processing
Single-origin showcases unique regional flavors. Blends provide consistency and balanced complexity. Processing method (washed, natural, honey) dramatically affects flavor profile.
✓Freshness
Look for roast dates within 2-4 weeks for peak flavor. Whole beans stay fresh longer than pre-ground. One-way valve bags help preserve freshness after roasting.
✓Certifications
Organic ensures no synthetic pesticides. Fair Trade supports ethical farming practices. Direct Trade often indicates higher quality and farmer relationships.
✓Bean Variety
Arabica offers complex flavors and pleasant acidity. Robusta provides body and crema but can taste bitter. Specialty varietals (Gesha, Bourbon) offer unique flavor experiences.
✓Price vs. Value
Specialty beans ($15-25/lb) offer complex flavors. Mid-range ($10-15/lb) balances quality and affordability. Budget options (under $10/lb) prioritize consistency over complexity.
Expert Tips
💡Buy whole beans and grind just before brewing for maximum freshness and flavor. Pre-ground coffee loses its aromatics within hours.
💡Store beans in an airtight container away from light, heat, and moisture. Don't refrigerate or freeze—it causes condensation that damages the beans.
💡Match your beans to your brewing method. Light roasts shine in pour-over, medium roasts work everywhere, and dark roasts excel in espresso.
💡Start with a variety pack if you're new to specialty coffee. This helps you discover your preferred flavor profiles without committing to a full bag.
💡The roast date matters more than the 'best by' date. Coffee is at its peak 4-14 days after roasting for most brewing methods.
Need Help Choosing?
Check out our comprehensive buying guides for expert advice