Lavazza Crema E Gusto remains a solid buy for those seeking an affordable, full-bodied Italian coffee experience, particularly praised for its chocolate undertones and suitability for espresso drinks. Our team found it offers a bold flavour profile that stands up well to milk. However, potential buyers should be aware that a segment of users has noted perceived changes in the flavour profile over time and occasional issues with an overly fine grind, which can lead to sediment in the cup.
Specifications
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Weight | 250 g |
| Intensity | 7/10 |
| Composition | Arabica & Robusta Blend |
| Roast | Dark |
In-Depth Analysis
As AethelGem's Shopping Strategist, I've analysed countless products, and the Lavazza Crema E Gusto ground coffee blend has consistently appeared as a popular choice for those chasing authentic Italian coffee at an accessible price. Our team tested this 250g brick, and we found it largely lives up to its reputation as a dependable, full-bodied Italian coffee. The aroma upon opening the package was indeed inviting, hinting at dark chocolate and toasted nuts, a promising start for any coffee enthusiast. In our espresso machine, it produced a respectable crema, a visual cue for a well-extracted shot. The initial taste is bold and rich, with a notable chocolate undertone that becomes more pronounced, especially when we added a splash of milk. This characteristic makes it a forgiving choice for those who enjoy a coffee that stands up well to dairy or creamers, much like how a good hot chocolate blend like the CARNATION Rich And Creamy Hot Chocolate can be enjoyed with milk. However, our deep dive into user feedback revealed a recurring theme: perceived inconsistencies. Several discussions on forums like Reddit highlighted a concern that the flavour profile might have shifted over time. One user specifically recalled older batches having more pronounced spicy, woody, or tobacco notes, which they felt were absent in newer ones, leading to a 'washed out' impression. While our tasting notes didn't entirely corroborate this 'washed out' sentiment, we did observe that the flavour is strong rather than complexly nuanced. It's a straightforward, bold profile. This might be the very characteristic that some users miss if they're accustomed to the more specific notes they remember. Another point of contention, particularly for aficionados of the moka pot, is the grind size. We encountered user reports describing the grind as exceptionally fine, leading to an unwelcome amount of coffee powder (fines) migrating into the brewed beverage. This requires careful tamping and possibly a finer filter screen on the moka pot to mitigate. For those who prefer a more traditional drip or a French press, this might be less of an issue, but it's a significant drawback for moka pot users who expect a specific grind consistency.
Considering its price point, Lavazza Crema E Gusto is undeniably a strong contender in the budget-friendly category. It aims to deliver an authentic Italian espresso experience without breaking the bank. We found it to be a "quiet powerhouse for espresso on a budget," as one reviewer put it. Compared to other accessible options, such as Nabob Traditional Fine Grind Ground Coffee, the Lavazza offers a bolder, darker roast profile that many associate with Italian espresso. While some users might find cheaper dark roasts from brands like Starbucks to have "more going on," this often comes down to personal preference for specific flavour notes versus overall body and strength. The product is positioned as a dark roast with an intensity rating of 7/10. This places it in a mid-to-high intensity range, suitable for those who prefer a strong cup. For context, Lavazza's own Qualità Rossa blend is often seen as a slightly milder counterpart, while the Qualità Oro is typically 100% Arabica and more aromatic. Crema e Gusto, believed to be a mix leaning more towards solida (perhaps 70% Arabica, 30% solida as speculated by some), delivers that characteristic punch and crema. Is Lavazza Crema E Gusto the "best bang for buck"? For many, yes. It provides a reliable, flavourful, and versatile coffee that offers a taste of Italian espresso culture at a price point that makes it an everyday purchase. It performs consistently and stands up well to milk, making it a go-to for lattes and cappuccinos. However, the potential for flavour variation and the fine grind issue mean that it might not be the perfect choice for everyone, especially those who are extremely sensitive to subtle taste changes or exclusively use moka pots without wanting to adjust their technique. It offers about 90% of the premium espresso experience for a fraction of the cost, making it a smart buy for the average consumer. Smart Buy Tip: Given user reports of potential flavour profile shifts, look for bricks with the most recent roast dates when possible, or purchase during sales events to maximise value.