Joybuy Insights

Choosing Your Kimbo 1kg Coffee Beans: Intenso, Barista, or Classico?

By the Joybuy Editorial TeamPublished July 10, 2026

So, you've invested in a coffee machine with a built-in grinder to enjoy the authentic taste of Italian espresso at home. Excellent choice! Kimbo, a true Neapolitan institution, is a trusted name in coffee. But with ranges like Intenso, Barista, and Crema Classico, navigating the options can be tricky. Don't worry—we're here to break down these blends to help you choose the Kimbo 1kg coffee beans that will make your machine sing and delight your palate.

Buyer's Guide: How to Choose the Right Kimbo Coffee Beans

Before we dive into our top picks, here are a few key pointers to guide you toward the perfect coffee for your taste and your machine.

1. Decoding the Intensity Scale

Kimbo rates its coffees on a scale from 1 to 13. Note that this rating isn't a guarantee of quality, but rather a measure of the coffee's body, roundness, and aromatic strength.

  • Low to Medium Intensity (up to 8/13): These coffees are generally milder, with more present acidity and delicate notes.
  • High Intensity (9/13 and up): These coffees, like the Kimbo Intenso, offer a powerful body, a more pronounced bitterness (often with notes of dark chocolate or toasted bread), and a more lasting crema.

2. Arabica, Robusta, or a Blend?

The blend's composition is crucial and directly influences the final result in the cup.

  • 100% Arabica Coffee: Known for its finesse, refreshing acidity, and complex aromas (floral, fruity). It produces a finer, lighter-coloured crema.
  • Arabica/Robusta Blend: The addition of Robusta provides body, a more distinct bitterness, and, most importantly, a thick, velvety crema—the hallmark of a traditional Italian espresso.

3. The 1kg Bag: The Smart Choice for Enthusiasts

For regular coffee drinkers, opting for a 1kg bag is by far the most economical choice. This format offers excellent value, and it's not uncommon to find a deal on whole bean coffee with this packaging. The best way to preserve freshness? Store your beans in an airtight, opaque container, away from moisture.

Recommended Kimbo 1kg Coffee Beans

Let's review three flagship products from the Kimbo range, each offering a unique experience that's ideal for your espresso machine with a built-in grinder.

KIMBO Espresso Barista 100% Arabica

Paquet de café en grains KIMBO Espresso Barista 100% Arabica 1kg

What Sets It Apart

The Kimbo Espresso Barista is a pure 100% Arabica that strives for the perfect balance. Its medium roast preserves the full aromatic complexity of the beans. The result is an espresso that is both smooth and fragrant, a departure from the pronounced bitterness found in some Italian blends.

Highlights

  • Composition: 100% Arabica
  • Intensity: 9/13
  • Profile: Smooth and aromatic
  • Roast: Medium

Who Is It For?

For those who appreciate the finesse and complexity of a pure Arabica. It's the ideal choice if you're looking for a balanced espresso without the typical power of Robusta.

KIMBO Crema Classico

Paquet de café en grains KIMBO Crema Classico 1kg

What Sets It Apart

The Kimbo Crema Classico is the embodiment of balance between smoothness and character. Its light roast and moderate intensity make it a highly versatile coffee. It stands out for its creamy texture and intense aroma, true to the classic image of Italian coffee beans.

Highlights

  • Intensity: 7/13
  • Profile: Balanced, between smoothness and character
  • Body: Full
  • Texture: Smooth and creamy

Who Is It For?

For those seeking an excellent everyday coffee that is both harmonious and comforting. Its controlled intensity and velvety texture make it an ideal companion for any time of day.

KIMBO Intenso

Paquet de café en grains KIMBO Intenso 1kg

What Sets It Apart

True to its name, Kimbo Intenso is a vibrant tribute to the Neapolitan espresso tradition. This blend of Arabica and Robusta features a dark roast that reveals powerful aromas of dark chocolate and dried fruit. It's an unapologetic choice for power and character.

Highlights

  • Intensity: 12/13
  • Profile: Full-bodied, with notes of dark chocolate
  • Composition: Arabica and Robusta blend
  • Finish: Long and persistent

Who Is It For?

For fans of full-bodied, powerful espressos who enjoy a controlled bitterness and a rich crema. It's the perfect coffee for a morning boost or to end a meal on an intense note.

Looking for Other Options?

Our selection focuses on Kimbo's bestsellers, but the world of coffee is endless. If you want to explore other brands, different roasts, or single-origin beans, feel free to browse our complete selection.

? Discover Our Entire Range of Coffee Beans

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What's the difference between a Kimbo 100% Arabica coffee and a blend with Robusta?

To put it simply, Arabica is synonymous with finesse and aromatic complexity, often with more acidic and floral notes (like the Kimbo Espresso Barista). Adding Robusta (as in the Kimbo Intenso) provides power, body, a chocolatey bitterness, and, most importantly, a much denser and more lasting crema—the signature of an Italian-style espresso.

How should I store my 1kg bag of Kimbo coffee beans to preserve their freshness?

Once the bag is open, the secret is to protect the beans from their four enemies: air, light, moisture, and heat. The best method is to transfer them to an opaque, airtight container and store it in a cupboard. And most importantly, no refrigerator! Condensation is the sworn enemy of flavour.

Are Kimbo coffee beans suitable for my automatic espresso machine?

Absolutely. Kimbo coffee beans are perfectly designed for automatic machines with built-in grinders. The 1kg format is also ideal for filling the bean hopper. Just remember to adjust the grind fineness and dosage on your machine to achieve the perfect espresso for your taste.