Lavazza, one of Italy’s most well-known coffee brands, was founded in 1895 in Turin by Luigi Lavazza. What began as a small grocery store is now a global coffee powerhouse. Luigi Lavazza’s vision was to create unique coffee blends by combining beans from different regions, a practice that was revolutionary at the time. Over the years, Lavazza has remained a family-owned business, with its fourth generation continuing to lead the company.

Flavor Profile: Lavazza is known for its balanced, smooth flavors that appeal to a wide range of coffee drinkers. Whether you’re a fan of espresso or drip coffee, Lavazza offers a variety of blends that cater to all preferences. Lavazza’s coffees are often medium-bodied with rich, well-rounded flavors, including notes of dark chocolate, nuts, and subtle spices. Their espresso blends are particularly popular for delivering a smooth yet robust experience with a velvety crema.

Notable Blends

• Lavazza Qualità Oro: A 100% Arabica blend with sweet, fruity flavors and a light floral aroma.
• Lavazza Crema e Gusto: Known for its bold and intense flavor, perfect for those who enjoy a stronger, more robust coffee.

Illy was founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy in Trieste, Italy. Illy has always been synonymous with quality and innovation, and it’s known for introducing the first-ever pressurized coffee packaging system, which preserved the freshness of the coffee beans. Today, Illy is renowned for its commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing, as well as for creating one of the finest Arabica blends in the world.

Flavor Profile: Illy’s signature blend consists of 100% Arabica beans sourced from the best regions around the world. The result is a beautifully balanced coffee that offers a rich, smooth, and subtly sweet flavor. You’ll notice delicate notes of caramel, chocolate, and floral undertones, making it a favorite for espresso purists. The flavor is never overpowering, and the finish is always clean and refined.

Notable Blends

• Illy Classico: The most popular blend, known for its balanced flavor, offering mild bitterness with hints of chocolate and caramel.
• Illy Intenso: A bolder option for those who enjoy stronger, more full-bodied coffee with rich cocoa undertones.

Kimbo was founded in 1963 in Naples, the heart of Italian espresso culture. The founders, the Rubino brothers, aimed to bring the rich espresso tradition of Naples to the world. Kimbo quickly became a symbol of Neapolitan coffee, known for its strong, bold flavors. Today, Kimbo is one of the most popular coffee brands in Italy, second only to Lavazza in national consumption.

Flavor Profile: Kimbo’s coffee is rich and intense, with a deep, full-bodied flavor that captures the essence of Naples’ coffee culture. Neapolitan espresso is known for its bold, almost smoky profile, and Kimbo delivers just that. Expect notes of dark chocolate, toasted nuts, and a hint of spice in every cup. If you prefer a robust, traditional espresso with a strong kick, Kimbo is the brand for you.

Notable Blends

• Kimbo Espresso Napoletano: The signature blend, offering a rich, dark roast that stays true to the bold flavors of Naples.
• Kimbo Antica Tradizione: A medium-dark roast with intense flavor and a lingering finish, perfect for espresso lovers.

Crastan is an Italian brand best known for its rich history in the production of coffee and coffee substitutes. Founded in 1870 in Pontedera, Tuscany, Crastan has been a family-owned business for five generations. Originally specializing in coffee surrogates such as barley and chicory, Crastan has since evolved into a respected name in the world of Italian coffee.

Flavor Profile: Crastan offers a more niche selection, particularly known for its instant coffee and chicory-based drinks. Their blends tend to have a mild and smooth flavor with less bitterness compared to traditional espresso brands. Crastan is perfect for those who prefer a lighter coffee experience but still want to enjoy the rich history and heritage of Italian coffee culture.

Notable Product

• Crastan Barley Coffee: A caffeine-free alternative that is roasted to deliver a nutty, slightly sweet flavor. It’s a great choice for those seeking a more delicate, yet flavorful coffee experience.