5 Best Italian Coffee Bean Brands of 2024 – Top Picks & Reviews

When it comes to food and flavor, few cultures compare to the expertise of Italians. Known for culinary delights like pesto and prosciutto, it’s no surprise that they also excel in roasting some of the finest coffee beans in the world.

Typically, the term “Italian roast” refers to a darker roast, often used for espresso. But don’t limit yourself — Italian roast coffee works beautifully in drip coffee makers, pour-overs, and even French presses. If you enjoy a bold, smoky flavor, you’re in the right place.

We’ve explored a range of Italian roasts and selected the ones that best represent the classic Italian coffee experience. We hope these reviews will guide you to your next favorite coffee.

The 5 Best Italian Coffee Bean Brands

1. illy Classico Whole Bean Coffee — Best Overall

Our top choice is the Illy Classico Whole Bean Coffee, a well-crafted blend from one of Italy’s most respected coffee companies. Like Lavazza, Illy has deep roots in Italy’s coffee culture and consistently delivers a high-quality product.

One standout feature is that Illy sources its beans through Direct Trade. Unlike Fair Trade, which relies on regulatory bodies, Direct Trade simplifies the supply chain by working directly with coffee farmers around the world. This ensures that Illy not only produces excellent coffee but also supports ethical sourcing.

Flavor-wise, Illy Classico offers a classic profile with strong notes of chocolate and a subtle smokiness. Plus, Illy uses 100% Arabica beans, ensuring a premium coffee experience. The only downside? It’s a bit pricey — but worth it.

Pros:

• Ethically sourced via Direct Trade
• Classic, rich flavors
• 100% Arabica beans

Cons:

• Not as complex as other blends
• On the expensive side

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2. Lavazza ‘Gran Espresso’ Whole Bean – Best Italian Espresso Beans

If you’re after the best Italian espresso beans, look no further than Lavazza Gran Espresso. This dark, chocolatey blend with plenty of crema comes from Brazil, Uganda, and Honduras, offering just enough complexity to create a rich espresso shot.

With slightly spicy undertones and full-bodied flavor, the Gran Espresso stands out from other dark roasts. It’s not overly fruity, making it a perfect choice for those who prefer a more robust, traditional espresso flavor.

Not an espresso drinker? No problem! This coffee also shines in a French press — just grind the beans coarser to avoid bitterness.

Pros:

• Rich crema production
• Unique chocolate and spice notes

Cons:

• Lacks fruity flavors

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3. Lavazza Super Crema Whole Bean Coffee Blend

Another classic from Lavazza, Super Crema offers a reliable and consistent coffee experience. While Lavazza might not always be the most adventurous option, it’s guaranteed to deliver a satisfying cup every time.

This blend features tasting notes of honey, fruit, and a touch of nuttiness, making it a versatile choice for both espresso and drip coffee. The natural oils in the beans help produce an impressive amount of crema, even when using methods like the French press.

Pros:

• Consistent, reliable flavor
• Produces a lot of crema

Cons:

• Slightly fruitier than other dark roasts

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4. Lavazza Crema e Gusto – Best Pre-Ground Pick

For those who prefer pre-ground coffee, Lavazza Crema e Gusto is a fantastic option. Packaged in a vacuum-sealed “brick” to maintain freshness, these pre-ground beans make it easy to enjoy a great cup of Italian coffee without worrying about grinding.

The flavor profile features bold chocolate notes with a rich bitterness that’s perfect for those who love intense, strong coffee. However, it may be a bit too bitter for those who prefer a more balanced flavor.

Pros:

• Conveniently pre-ground and well-packaged for freshness
• Bold, intense taste

Cons:

• Can be overly bitter for some

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5. Lavazza Dek Ground Coffee Blend – Best Decaf Pick

Decaf drinkers will love Lavazza Dek, which offers all the flavor of Italian coffee without the caffeine. This blend is packed with rich, dark notes while keeping the bitterness in check. It’s perfect for any brewing method, from espresso to French press.

With a smooth, well-rounded flavor and a great aroma, this decaf option is an excellent addition to any coffee lover’s rotation.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Balanced flavor without too much bitterness

Cons:

• Lacks fruity notes

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Buyer’s Guide: How to Find the Best Italian Coffee Beans

For coffee enthusiasts, exploring Italian roasts is a deep dive into a rich, dark, and bold coffee culture. Italian coffee is typically roasted dark, emphasizing bitter and smoky flavors, which is a nod to the long-standing tradition of espresso in Italy. Keep this in mind when selecting Italian beans, as they’ll often be heavier on the palate than lighter roasts from other regions.

What’s the best brewing method?

While Italian roasts are synonymous with espresso, they can be brewed in various ways. For the full Italian experience, use an espresso machine or a stovetop percolator, both of which use pressure to extract rich crema. If you’re not seeing that signature crema, you might not be fully capturing the essence of Italian coffee.

That said, these beans also work beautifully with other brewing methods. We recommend starting with a pour-over to experiment with grind sizes and water ratios. Once you’ve perfected your recipe, you’ll be enjoying rich, flavorful coffee every day.

Conclusion

To summarize: our top pick for the best Italian coffee beans is the Illy Classico Whole Bean Coffee, thanks to its high quality and reliable flavor. If you’re looking for espresso beans, we recommend Lavazza Gran Espresso, while Lavazza Crema e Gusto is our favorite pre-ground option. For those who prefer decaf, Lavazza Dek is an excellent choice.

With these reviews and a buyer’s guide, we hope you find the perfect Italian coffee to suit your taste. Italian coffee is known for its bold, dark flavor — and with the right beans, you’ll feel like you’re sipping coffee in Italy without ever leaving home. Buon appetito!