| Coffee Beans | Roast Level | Flavor Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Whole Bean | Medium Roast | Honey, Roasted Coffee, Baked Goods |
Note: A balanced espresso blend with velvety crema, smooth body, and versatile brewing options — ideal for café‑style coffee at home.
Crafted from a mix of Arabica and Robusta beans, this whole‑bean coffee is designed to deliver the rich crema and aromatic depth you’d expect from an Italian café.
The Story Behind Lavazza Barista Gran Crema
Lavazza has been crafting coffee for over 125 years, and its Barista Gran Crema blend is one of the brand’s most popular medium roasts. Designed for espresso lovers, this whole‑bean coffee combines Arabica and Robusta beans sourced from South America and Asia.
- Established Italian coffee brand with global recognition
- Blend of Arabica and Robusta beans
- Medium roast with intensity level 7/10
- Crafted for espresso machines but versatile for other brewing methods
This background sets the stage for why Gran Crema is considered a reliable choice for those who want café‑style espresso at home.
Flavor Profile and Aroma
The Gran Crema blend is celebrated for its balance between boldness and smoothness. The Arabica beans contribute sweetness and mild acidity, while the Robusta beans add body and crema. Together, they create a cup that feels indulgent yet approachable.
- Full‑bodied taste with a velvety texture
- Aromatic notes of honey, roasted coffee, and baked goods
- Mild acidity balanced with natural sweetness
- Smooth finish that lingers pleasantly
This combination makes it a versatile roast, appealing to both casual coffee drinkers and espresso enthusiasts who appreciate depth without overwhelming bitterness.
Bean origin and sourcing
Lavazza lists origins spanning South America and Asia, with some pages also referencing Central America and Africa to emphasize the blend’s global sourcing strategy aimed at a velvety, barista-style espresso profile.
- Composition: Arabica & Robusta — blended for balance, crema, and a rounded mouthfeel
- Primary origins: South America and Asia; some listings include Central America and Africa, reflecting multi-region sourcing
- Intensity: 7/10 — positioned for a medium, everyday espresso cup with presence but not harshness
This wide sourcing net allows Lavazza to keep the flavor consistent year-round: sweet-leaning Arabicas for nuance, robustas for texture and crema, and a roast profile tuned to espresso that maintains clarity without excessive bitterness.
Brewing recommendations
Designed for espresso machines first, Gran Crema also performs well in moka pots and other Italian-style preparations. Lavazza explicitly marks it “ideal for espresso,” and retailer guidance suggests avoiding extremes in grind fineness for best results.
- Espresso: Use a fine grind and target a 25–30 second extraction for a balanced shot with stable crema
- Moka pot: Medium-fine grind, gentle heat; stop the brew early to avoid harshness and preserve sweetness
- Drip/Pour-over: Medium grind; slightly lower ratio (e.g., 1:15–1:16) to keep body while limiting bitterness
- French press: Coarse grind, 4 minutes; plunge gently to emphasize the smooth body over acidity
Start with a 1:2 brew ratio for espresso (e.g., 18 g in, 36 g out) and adjust in small steps: finer/longer for more intensity and crema, coarser/shorter for a lighter, sweeter cup.
Packaging, Freshness, and Value
Lavazza pays attention to presentation and quality control, ensuring that the beans arrive fresh and well‑protected. While some users note that packaging could be sturdier, the overall experience reflects the brand’s premium positioning.
- Airtight packaging to preserve freshness
- GMO‑free and eco‑conscious sourcing practices
- Affordable compared to other premium Italian blends
- Widely available in supermarkets and online
For coffee lovers seeking a balance of quality and accessibility, Gran Crema offers a sense of luxury without breaking the budget.