Which Kimbo 1kg Coffee Beans for Authentic Neapolitan Espresso

You have a bean-to-cup coffee machine and dream of enjoying the authenticity of a true Italian espresso at home. Kimbo, the ambassador of Neapolitan coffee, has caught your eye. But when faced with the 1?kg bags, you hesitate: Intenso, Crema Classico, Aroma Gold? Which one is right for you?

Our editorial team has sifted through the range to help you choose the Kimbo 1?kg coffee beans that truly match your taste. Forget the marketing jargon; we'll guide you in making the right choice, plain and simple.

Buying Guide: 3 Criteria for Choosing Your Kimbo Whole Bean Coffee

To choose well, you need to speak the same language as the roaster. Here are 3 keys to deciphering the character of an Italian coffee and finding your perfect match.

1. The Intensity Scale: Your Flavour Compass

Kimbo rates its coffees on a scale up to 13. More than just a caffeine indicator, this number is the barometer of your coffee's character: it measures its body, bitterness, and finish.

• Low to Medium Intensity (e.g., 7/13): A well-balanced coffee with a pleasant acidity and more delicate notes.
• High Intensity (e.g., 12/13): Get ready for a full-bodied and powerful coffee, with a pronounced bitterness and roasted aromas, the signature of a Neapolitan espresso.

2. The Composition: 100% Arabica or the Art of the Blend?

The choice of beans is crucial. It dictates the profile of your cup.

• 100% Arabica: The choice for aromatic finesse, complexity, and delicate acidity. The result is a smoother, more fragrant coffee.
• Arabica and Robusta Blend: The addition of Robusta is the secret to an Italian-style espresso. It adds body, a thick and long-lasting crema, and more intense, often chocolatey, notes. It's the recipe for a powerful and creamy coffee.

3. The Roast: The Master Roaster's Signature

The Italian roast is traditionally darker. This intense roasting process, a true mark of craftsmanship, develops rich notes of cocoa, toasted bread, and nuts, while reducing the bean's natural acidity. This is the signature that gives Kimbo whole bean coffee its unique character, ideal for extraction in a bean-to-cup machine.

Recommended Kimbo 1kg Coffee Beans

We have selected three must-haves from the Kimbo range. Each has its own personality; it's up to you to find the one that suits you.

KIMBO Crema Classico, Intensity 7/13

Why it stands out: The Kimbo Crema Classico is a sure thing, the very definition of balance. With its 7/13 intensity, it's the ultimate all-rounder, guaranteed to please the majority without ever being aggressive. Its gentle roast offers an ideal compromise between smoothness and character.

Key features:

• Perfect Balance: A remarkable harmony between smoothness and distinct aromas.
• Creamy Crema: It produces a generous and persistent crema, a treat for the eyes and the palate.
• Versatility: Ideal as a short espresso or a long coffee (lungo).

Who is it for? It's the perfect choice for an introduction to the world of Kimbo or for those looking for an excellent everyday coffee. It's a crowd-pleaser at home or in the office.

KIMBO Aroma Gold 100% Arabica, Intensity 9/13

Why it stands out: The Kimbo Aroma Gold is all about finesse. This 100% Arabica prioritises aromatic richness over raw power. Its medium roast (intensity 9/13) reveals a delicate and highly fragrant profile.

Key features:

• 100% Arabica Finesse: All the aromatic complexity of Arabica, without the bitterness of Robusta.
• Smooth Profile: A velvety coffee with very restrained bitterness.
• Subtle Aromas: Perfect for those who enjoy detecting floral or fruity notes in their cup.

Who is it for? For lovers of aromatic and elegant coffees. If, in addition to your espresso machine, you use a French press or another slow-brew method, it will reveal its full aromatic range. An excellent choice if you shy away from bitterness.

KIMBO Intenso, Intensity 12/13

Why it stands out: The Kimbo Intenso is the soul of Naples in your cup. With its 12/13 intensity, this Arabica/Robusta blend makes no compromises. It delivers a full-bodied, rich coffee with a remarkable finish. Its dark roast reveals deep notes of dark chocolate and spice.

Key features:

• Assertive Power: The perfect kick-start in the morning or the ideal digestif after a good meal.
• Generous Body: A dense and velvety mouthfeel.
• Dark Chocolate Aromas: A rich profile, the signature of a masterfully executed Italian roast.

Who is it for? For purists of the short espresso (ristretto) and anyone who believes a coffee must have character above all else. If you love a coffee that makes a statement, look no further: Kimbo Intenso is for you.

Want to Explore Other Horizons?

If you're a fan of full-bodied coffees or simply want to discover other roasters, take a look at our selection of intense coffee beans. You'll find other gems for those who love intense flavours.

Discover our range of Intense Coffee Beans

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Kimbo Intenso or Aroma Gold: which one to choose? It all depends on what you're looking for. For aromatic finesse and smoothness, without a doubt, choose Aroma Gold (100% Arabica). For power, a dense body, and the bold character of a Neapolitan espresso, go for Kimbo Intenso (Arabica/Robusta blend).

2. How do I preserve the freshness of a 1 kg bag of Kimbo coffee? Once the bag is open, the secret is to protect the beans from air, light, and moisture. Transfer them to an airtight, opaque container and store it in a cool, dry cupboard. Above all, avoid the refrigerator: moisture and odours are coffee's worst enemies.

3. What grind size should I use for Kimbo whole bean coffee? That's the great advantage of whole beans: custom grinding! For a bean-to-cup machine or an espresso machine, opt for a fine grind. For a French press, a coarse grind is required. For a drip coffee maker, aim for a medium grind. The goal for an espresso is to adjust the fineness to achieve an extraction time of 25 to 30 seconds.