Nespresso has developed a packaging system all of its own. It entails placing the correct amount of ground coffee into aluminium capsules that are coated on the inside with a protective lining. This prevents any contact between the coffee and the aluminium. One individual capsule contains exactly the right amount of fresh, finely ground coffee for one espresso.
This packaging system claims to preserve all of the qualities and flavour of the freshly roasted coffee for at least nine months, providing the best quality at the moment of consumption. Day after day, week after week, the end result is always terrific.
The Grand Crus
Taking the French term normally given to the classification of the best regional wines, Nespresso use the term to describe their range of coffees. I have tried all but the decaffinated coffees (please tell me why these exist!!) and I can honestly say there isn’t one that hasn’t made me go ‘Oooohh – now that’s tasty!’
So here is a quick tour (the number in brackets represents the strength):
Ristretto (10): The typical Italian espresso. It is a short, strong, full-bodied espresso with a touch of acidity. It has a pleasantly lingering taste.
Arpeggio (9): This is a Mediterranean blend par excellence with a strong character, intense body and long, exquisite after-taste. Its thick, smooth crema remains to the last sip.
Roma (8): With its sweetness and its woody notes, Roma is the ideal coffee for a short espresso which is not too strong.
Livanto (6): A very well balanced blend, Livanto is characterized by a dense and velvety aroma. It is a uniquely rounded espresso.
Capriccio (5): A full-bodied espresso, which is also creamy, mild and rich. Its crema is very dense, and so delicate that it reflects the light.
Volluto (4): Lightly roasted but full-bodied, Volluto’s flavour is round and fresh with a cereal hint. Volluto’s character is reinforced by a touch of acidity.
Cosi (3): Cosi is perfect for espresso lovers who enjoy a mild, smooth crema coupled with the refreshing acidity of a hint of lemon.
Decaffeinato Intenso (7): An intense, rich taste with slightly elevated acidity gives this decaffeinated coffee all the strength of a true espresso.
Decaffeinato (2): A lighter and creamier decaffeinated blend, offering a rich and delicate balance between mildness and acidity. Decaffeinato’s crema is distinguished by its hazel colour and consistent texture in the mouth.
There re many waya to buy the capsules – needless to say the web is a great place to start. You can go for a set of a particular flavour or you can go for a stylish box selection set. If you are just starting out in the Nespresso world go for a selection – try enjoy and marvel in the variety.
The next posting will look at the range of machines available for use with th Nespresso capsules.
