The Canberra Times

7 Best coffee beans in Australia revealed for 2024

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Buying coffee beans online can offer superb discounts.. Picture Shutterstock
Buying coffee beans online can offer superb discounts.. Picture Shutterstock

There are some fantastic coffee beans online for an amazing at-home brewing experience. Whether you're looking for a smooth, well-balanced filter coffee or a robust, rich espresso, each has a unique profile that suits a range of tastes. While you can pick them up in stores, buying coffee beans online can offer superb discounts. With that said, these are our top picks for the best coffee beans in Australia:

  1. Grinders Crema Beans 1kg - Best medium-roast coffee beans
  2. Lavazza Qualità Oro Beans 500g - Best Arabica coffee beans
  3. De'Longhi Signature Coffee 1kg - Traditional Italian wood-fired roasted beans
  4. Harris Smooth Beans 1kg - Best dark roast coffee beans
  5. Byron Bay Organic Espresso 1kg - Best organic coffee beans

Top-rated coffee beans for the perfect brew

Best medium-roast coffee beans

Best medium-roast coffee beans. Picture supplied
Best medium-roast coffee beans. Picture supplied

Coffee enthusiasts should be pleased to hear that Grinders Coffee Roasters offers an Arabica blend that tastes as good as a café, all from the comfort of your home coffee machine. The nutty, fruity aroma and smooth, creamy flavour of the Grinders Crema Coffee Beans are claimed to elevate your morning cup to a slightly more refined level.

But remember that these are medium-roasted beans. For most coffee consumers, this roasting degree strikes a nice balance between the inherent character of the beans and the strength of flavour.

It's not all plain sailing, though. These beans might be a little bit mild for your taste if you tend to like very strong coffee. As such, I find these best suited for lattes and cappuccinos rather than long blacks. Furthermore, while whole beans do guarantee the freshest coffee, doing so necessitates having a coffee bean grinder on hand.

Pros

  • Provides a rich, creamy cup of coffee.
  • A medium roast is suitable for most palates.
  • Roasted with pride in Melbourne, Australia.

Cons

  • Possibly unsuitable for people who want a stronger flavour.

Best Arabica coffee beans

Best Arabica coffee beans. Picture supplied
Best Arabica coffee beans. Picture supplied

Lavazza has demonstrated its skill in blending with the release of Qualità Oro. When I think about these beans, I'm fully engaged in this rich legacy, seeing the six Arabica kinds coming together to form something that transcends the sum of their parts. Any coffee lover is excited by the idea of experiencing such a harmonious blend of flavours.

I am aware that the Qualità Oro has a 56-year history and strives to provide a consistently excellent flavour with each cup and you should not be surprised to find Lavazza beans in some of the best cafes in Melbourne, known for their excellent taste in coffee, but also throughout the rest of Australia.

The fruity and floral scents hint at a sensory experience that might turn my daily routine into an indulgent moment. Due to their skillful blending of sweetness and intensity, Lavazza is widely recognised for its mastery of the medium roast.

Knowing that Lavazza is dedicated to quality and that their Qualità Oro beans are no exception might be reassuring. I understand that this blend was made for people who value the craft of coffee manufacturing, even as I consider the distinct probability that every sip will deliver a sweet and refined taste.

Pros

  • Has a fruity, flowery, and rich scent.
  • Ideal for espresso and other types of coffee makers.
  • A premium blend from a reputable company.

Cons

  • Might not satisfy fans of beans from a single origin.
  • Dark roast enthusiasts may find the medium roast level too mild.
  • The availability may be restricted to some areas.

Traditional Italian wood-fired roasted beans

Traditional Italian wood-fired roasted beans. Picture Delonghi
Traditional Italian wood-fired roasted beans. Picture Delonghi


Many people would like the well-rounded flavour profile of the De'Longhi Signature Blend first thing in the morning. Not all blends can match the authentic Italian coffee experience provided by its wood-fire roasting procedure. A great blend of 70% Arabica and 30% Robusta gives you a taste that is both smooth and sharp.

The majority of the 112 consumers gave it great ratings, although some complained about the scent. Nonetheless, the majority of reviews commend this blend's quality and palatability, particularly when used in a De'Longhi machine. So much so, I get the impression that people who have taken a chance on this coffee bean have developed a devoted following.

With its medium roast and undertones of chocolate and toasted almonds, the De'Longhi Signature Blend may easily become your go-to cupboard item. But remember, everyone who drinks coffee has different tastes. This is probably a good choice if you prefer a softer brew with a silky crema.

Pros

  • Blends Robusta and Arabica expertly for a flavour that is robust.
  • Created utilising a special wood-fire roasting method from Italy.
  • Arrives in a substantial one-kilogram packaging.

Cons

  • Perhaps too gentle for people who like a strong kick.
  • Some aficionados may not find the aroma up to par.
  • The complexity of the combination may not be to everyone's taste.

Best dark roast coffee beans

7 Best coffee beans in Australia revealed for 2024
7 Best coffee beans in Australia revealed for 2024

Many customers have found the Harris Smooth Beans to be a wake-up call due to their creamy taste. Whether it's the first cup in the morning or an afternoon pick-me-up, its 100% Arabica beans promise a premium coffee experience. It's also important to note that, because it was roasted in Australia, it arrives with an expectation of freshness.

Harris has responded to market demand for sustainability with packaging that won't trouble consumers' consciences. The REDcycle program's dedication to recyclable materials is admirable since it guarantees that the product's life cycle is as seamless as the coffee itself. However, those who prefer a dark roast's robust punch may not discover their ideal match.

Although the beans receive great reviews, each person has different tastes in intensity and depth, which may not be satisfied in this instance. Even so, it's a good choice for anyone whose tastes run more towards a soft hug than a firm handshake after their coffee.

The Harris Smooth Beans capture the essence of what constitutes a fulfilling cup without overpowering the senses. This brand is ideal for those who care about the environment since it strikes a balance between responsibility and flavour.

Pros

  • Australia-roasted for optimal freshness.
  • Completely recyclable packaging complies with environmental standards.
  • A balanced and creamy profile is assured with 100% Arabica beans.

Cons

  • Only available in 1kg, which may not meet everyone's consumption requirements.
  • The strength that some coffee connoisseurs want may not be present in the medium roast.

Best organic coffee beans

Best organic coffee beans. Byron Bay coffee
Best organic coffee beans. Byron Bay coffee

A great option for individuals looking for a quality coffee experience with a hint of Australian heritage is the Wholebean, Organic Espresso from Byron Bay Coffee Company. Coffee lovers will value the attention to detail that goes into making each batch of Byron Bay Organic Espresso.

These freshly roasted beans are sourced globally with an emphasis on quality, resulting in a flavorful and filling cup. With every brew, the brand's legendary beginnings in the Byron Bay hinterland serve more than simply coffee-they offer a taste of rustic Australian character.

The company's commitment to using organic agricultural methods and careful roasting methods is shown in the nuanced flavour notes that clients like. But not all beans are made equal, and depending on storage and stock conditions, some may not be as fresh as others.

Although the milder roast degree may not satisfy those who prefer a darker, more robust espresso, the aromatic profile is often praised. If these characteristics match your expectations for coffee, give it a try. You can buy a 1kg bag for $44.98 on Amazon and $48 directly from Byron Bay.

Pros

  • Worldwide sourcing and local roasting to ensure freshness.
  • Encourages the development of a rich taste profile with nutty and chocolaty undertones.
  • For those who value their health, organic and mycotoxin-free coffee.

Cons

  • The light to medium roast might not be to everyone's liking.
  • Limited package quantity might not satisfy those who consume a lot of coffee.

Best specialty coffee beans for espresso shots

Best specialty coffee beans for espresso shots. Picture supplied
Best specialty coffee beans for espresso shots. Picture supplied

Coffee lovers are constantly searching for the ideal cup that captures the atmosphere of a small Italian café. That's what the Lavazza Espresso Intenso claims to do. It is a rich mix that appeals to people who like a strong shot of espresso since it has a blend of Arabica and Robusta beans.

I like the depth of this blend's aroma, which includes undertones of wood and cocoa that will make your daily coffee habit more enjoyable. A balanced cup is ensured by the medium roast profile, which steers clear of the harshness that some darker roasts may bring.

Given that the coffee received a 9 out of 10 intensity rating, it is evident that this choice is intended for individuals who like their coffee stronger. Why not try it out and grab a bag for $28 on Amazon or Woolworths.

Pros

  • A true Italian taste profile.
  • Fit for a range of espresso machines.
  • Offers a durable cremation.

Cons

  • Perhaps too strong for certain people.
  • Restricted to a single taste profile.
  • A higher caffeine level may not be to everyone's taste.

Best no-fuss Italian blend

Best no-fuss Italian blend. Picture Lavazza
Best no-fuss Italian blend. Picture Lavazza

This coffee strikes a nice balance between the robust flavour of an authentic Italian espresso and the delicate flavour that some may like for a morning brew. The medium roast degree guarantees that the beans lack the acidic tang of a lighter roast or the bitterness of a dark roast.

The Robusta and Arabica combined blend gives the beans a full-bodied profile without being too overpowering. It's a sensory delight, with subtle notes of chocolate and dried fruit.

The 4.6-star rating and more than 18,000 reviews on Amazon suggest that it is well-liked by Aussies. Qualità Rossa, though, stands a good chance of winning an award for a traditional, fuss-free, authentically Italian blend.

Pros

  • Blends aromatic Arabica and robust Robusta for a complex flavour.
  • Medium roast suits a range of palates, offering a balanced taste.
  • Notable notes of chocolate and dried fruit.

Cons

  • Intensity may not satisfy those who prefer a lighter or stronger brew.

The Types of Coffee Beans to Shop for Online

Breakfast blends

Light to medium-roasted beans are typically used in the breakfast blend because of their smoothness and well-balanced flavour profile. The reason it's termed "breakfast blend" is that it's typically consumed in the morning, providing a mild boost without overpowering the senses. It's a refreshing way to start the day, with a medium acidity level and maybe some citrus or flowery nuances.

AnchorHouse blends

A lot of coffee shops and roasters have house blends as their signature coffee which are quite often the best coffee beans you can locally buy. They are designed to balance acidity, body, and flavour to appeal to a wide range of palates. They produce a well-rounded flavour with moderate acidity and sweetness, and are typically roasted to a medium roast. House blends are a dependable option for everyday enjoyment since they are adaptable and work well with a variety of brewing techniques, from drip coffee to espresso.

Dedicated for espresso

Designed especially for making espresso, these Australian coffee beans often include dark-roasted beans for a strong, concentrated flavour. Espresso blends give priority to characteristics like crema, richness, and a robust mouthfeel. Their distinct flavours, which include hints of sweetness and smokiness, make them a popular choice amongst coffee drinkers for espresso-based beverages such as macchiatos, lattes, and cappuccinos.

Italian roast

French roast and Italian roast blends are similar, but the former is a little lighter and offers a harmony of acidity and assertiveness. They're frequently used in espresso brewing because of their shining surface and rich, caramelised flavour, which gives the coffee a stronger but smoother flavour than French roast. Italian roast mixes taste great on their own as a robust black coffee or combined with milk for a smooth, creamy finish.

Decaf

Blends labelled as "decaf" are made from beans that have had the caffeine extracted using a variety of techniques. These blends aim to preserve the flavour and aroma of ordinary coffee even if they are devoid of caffeine. Because they are available in a variety of roast levels and flavour profiles, fans of decaf coffee can still have a delicious cup without the jitters.

Single-origin blends

These blends showcase the distinctive qualities of a certain region's terroir by using beans that are derived from that particular geographic area. For instance, Ethiopian blends may have floral notes and fruity acidity, while Colombian blends frequently have a balanced flavour with caramel and nutty overtones. With single-origin blends, coffee lovers can discover the various flavour profiles found in various coffee-growing countries.

Flavoured blends

During or after roasting, different natural or artificial flavourings are added to coffee to create a flavoured blend that enhances the coffee's flavour profile. Hazelnut, caramel, chocolate, vanilla, and seasonal spices like pumpkin or cinnamon are examples of common flavourings. These blends are ideal for people who like their coffee to taste like dessert since they cater to those who want a sweeter or more aromatic cup of joe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top varieties of coffee beans for espresso?

Robusta coffee beans are frequently preferred for espresso due to their deep flavour and ability to produce crema. For a robust and nuanced cup, I suggest experimenting with a mix that combines the two or a single-origin arabica from Brazil or Ethiopia.

Which coffee beans are recommended for someone new to brewing at home?

A medium roast arabica coffee bean is a good option for beginners because it has a somewhat acidic flavour profile and is quite forgiving when brewing. Colombian or Guatemalan beans make great foundations.

How do I select the finest coffee beans for a drip coffee maker?

Choose beans that are medium-bodied and well-balanced for your drip coffee maker. A medium roast from places like Papua New Guinea or Costa Rica will bring out the nuances that a drip machine can't.

What are some of the best coffee beans for use in a pour-over method?

A light to medium roast brings forth the best in the pour-over process, bringing out the natural attributes of the bean. For a vibrant and fruity character, look for single-origin coffee beans from Ethiopia or Kenya. The Grinders Crema Beans are the best Australian coffee beans for pour-overs.

What are the characteristics of the highest quality coffee bean?

A coffee bean of the finest calibre will taste clean, smell strong, and have the ideal acidity to body ratio. It should also be evenly roasted coffee beans and free