Best Nespresso Capsules

Top Nespresso CapsulesBased in Lausanne, Switzerland and part of the Nestlé Group, Nespresso is a brand that has become synonymous with high-quality coffee capsules. These capsules are a popular choice among coffee lovers who want a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee at home or in the office.

Nespresso is the most popular coffee capsule brand offering a wide selection of machines and capsules available in two lines, OriginalLine which are the original coffee capsules we review on this site and VertuoLine which are bigger capsules used with a Vertuo machine and mostly designed for the US market (please note, as personal preference, we are only reviewing Original capsules here, not Vertuoline capsules).

As of 2023, the original line includes around 80+ coffee capsules divided in 8 categories: Limited EditionBarista CreationsItalianaEspressoMaster OriginLungoDecaffeinato and Variations. That said, Nespresso seems to have branding issues as they continuously reorganize their coffee lines, which makes it confusing for consumers. You should also be aware that some of their classic coffee pods get renamed and remarketed as new.

Nespresso original capsules usually include 5 grams of roast and ground coffee and their intensity rating is calculated on a scale from 0 to 13.

Servings offered include espresso (1.35 oz)lungo (3.70 oz) and ristretto (0.85 oz), most Originalline Nespresso coffee machines being set for espresso and lungo with some upgraded models featuring options for Cappucino (espresso with milk) and Latte Macchiato (lungo with milk) – If you don’t have a ristretto button, all you have to do is stop at 2/3 on an espresso. Each coffee comes packaged in a rectangle box including 10 aluminum capsules which can be recycled by mail or dropped off at a Nespresso store near you.

When it comes to beans, original pods are usually made of arabica, Robusta beans, espresso blends coming from South America, Central America and most particularly Colombian Arabica beans. Each coffee pod spec includes cup size, roast level, intensity level, mg of caffeine, flavor profile and rating. Our reviews are for all types of coffee drinkers from the causal espresso coffee drinker to the Nespresso lover. Whether you are coffee lovers who like darker roasts for their espresso shot, or just casual drinkers who enjoy lighter roasts or just iced coffee, you will find a here a great choice for your taste buds. In this article, we will look at some of the best Nespresso pods available in 2023. Each section includes the most popular Nespresso pods we are recommending for everyday use.

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EXCLUSIVE COFFEE CAPSULE REVIEWS

Growing up in Marseille, a Mediterranean city with a strong Italian heritage, sitting at cafe terraces sipping espressos was a way of life for a coffee lover. An early Nespresso adopter with the Cube machine, I started reviewing Nespresso capsules because of a lack of capsule information at the time. Each capsule review follows the same strict, unbiased, uncompromising process: 10+ capsules get tasted in their pure form, without any sugar, milk or water. Our reviews are designed to tell it like it is, without sugarcoating anything, and include a 5-star system. Because espressos are part of a lifestyle, we are also offer exclusive pairing guidance with food and music – being now located in Los Angeles with ties to the music and movie industries might have something to do with this.

12 BEST NESPRESSO CAPSULES

Do you have one of the original machines and want to know what are the best Nespresso capsules for espresso, Lungo, Latte and Cappuccino? Here’s our exclusive list of the best 12 best Nespresso pods that are currently available as of 2023, including all Original limited edition and standard ranges:

IL CAFFE
rating: 5 Stars
Il Caffè is a limited edition espresso made of a blend of Robusta beans from Vietnam, Indonesia and Arabica beans from Colombia. With an intensity of 13 out of 13, Nespresso’s Il Caffè capsule is as dark and intense as it gets and is sure to satisfy espresso connoisseurs.
Intensity: 13/13. Flavor: roasted, cereal.

ISPIRAZIONE NOVECENTO
rating: 5 Stars
Ispirazione Novecento is a limited edition espresso made from Robusta beans. With an intensity of 13 out of 13, it delivers a dark, intense and addictive experience with a distinct roasted flavor.
Intensity: 13/13. Flavor: roasted, bitter.

KAZAAR
rating: 5 Stars
Kazaar is an espresso made with Robusta beans from Brazil and Guatemala. Woody with nice bitter tones, Kazaar tastes like a real espresso should taste.
Intensity: 12/13. Flavor: bitter, peppery.

MASTER ORIGIN COSTA RICA
rating: 5 Stars
Master Origin Costa Rica is a limited edition espresso/lungo made from Arabica beans from Costa Rica. Made from beans soaked in Costa Rica’s Orosi mineral hot spring, this coffee features a surprisingly rich and smooth body with a malty flavor.
Intensity: 7/13. Flavor: malty.

MONSOON MALABAR
rating: 5 Stars
Monsoon Malabar is an espresso made with green coffees from south-western India. Featuring a medium intensity, it stands out by combining a rich body with salty, woody tones and an upfront bitterness coming from the spices.
Intensity: 8/13. Flavor: woody, spicy.

SELECTION VINTAGE 2014
rating: 5 Stars
Selection Vintage 2014 is a limited edition espresso made with Arabica beans from Colombian Highlands. This raw, authentic espresso manages to be soft, velvety, fruity while delivering moderate intensity.
Intensity: 7/13. Flavor: woody, fruity.

TRIBUTE TO PALERMO
rating: 5 Stars
Tribute to Palermo is an espresso made with Arabica and Robusta beans from Africa. Featuring a rich, velvety body, Tribute to Palermo feels and tastes like authentic European coffee, almost transporting you to a café’s terrace.
Intensity: 11/13. Flavor: cacao, spicy.

UMUTIMA WA LAKE KIVU RWANDA
rating: 5 Stars
Umutima Wa Lake Kivu Rwanda is an espresso made with Arabica beans from Rwanda .What makes this coffee stand out is its split roast which offers a very subtle experience with a slightly liquorice sensation, a fruity flavor and salty aftertaste.
Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: fruity.

CAFECITO DE CUBA
rating: 4 Stars
Cafecito de Cuba is an espresso made of Arabica beans from Cuba. Very short, intense but with a soft texture, it delivers tobacco and citrus notes with a spicy aftertaste.
Intensity: 10/13. Flavor: smoky, woody.

HAWAI KONA
rating: 4 Stars
Hawaii Kona is an espresso made of Arabica beans from Big Island, Hawaii. Feeling surprisingly dark despite its moderate intensity, it features roasted nuts and spicy red fruit notes with a lasting smoky salty aftertaste.
Intensity: 5/13. Flavor: nutty, fruity.

ISPIRAZIONE NAPOLI
rating: 4 Stars
Ispirazione Napoli is a limited edition espresso made of Robusta beans.
This capsule is exactly how an authentic espresso should be: With an intensity of 13 out of 13, it delivers a dark, intense experience with a distinct roasted flavor as well as a salty and bitter aftertaste.
Intensity: 13/13. Flavor: roasted, bitter.

PARIS BLACK
rating: 4 Stars
Paris Black is a limited edition espresso made of Arabica and Robusta beans. It is dark, boldly roasted and peppery just the way we like it, leaving you with a thick finish.
Intensity: 9/13. Flavor: cereal, woody, spicy.
Intensity: 11/13. Flavor: cacao, spicy.

Last but not least, we will also give your our selection of the Top 3 Nespresso pods released in 2023.

Discontinued capsules might be available in our Amazon online store.

BEST EVERYDAY NESPRESSO CAPSULES

While the best-rated Nespresso pods are usually high-priced limited-edition releases – a scarcity marketing model -, readers often ask what are our favorite Nespresso capsules, including go-to pods for everyday use. So here are our top 3 everyday capsules:

LIVANTO
Livanto is a medium roast coffee that is made from a blend of Central and South American Arabica beans. With an intensity of 6, Livanto is a milder coffee option that is perfect for those who want a coffee that is smooth and easy to drink. This coffee has a balanced flavor profile, with hints of caramel and cereal notes.
Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: malt, cereal. Rating: 4 stars.

VOLLUTO

Volluto is a Nespresso capsule that is made from pure South American Arabica beans. This light roast coffee has an intensity of 4, making it the perfect choice for those who prefer a mild coffee taste. Volluto has a smooth and creamy texture, with notes of honey and biscuit.
Intensity: 4/13. Flavor: fruity, biscuity. Rating: 4 stars.

VIENNA LINIZIO LUNGO

Vienna Linizio Lungo is a smooth coffee made from a blend of Arabica beans from South America. With a mild intensity, silky texture and malted flavor, this one is a crowd-pleaser which both casual coffee drinkers and fanatics should enjoy.

Intensity: 4/13. Flavor: fruity, malted, caramelized. Rating: 4 stars.

BEST CAPSULES / COFFEE DRINKS

What's the best Nespresso Capsule for Espresso?

With its spicy cocoa flavor and medium to strong intensity, Ispirazione Novecento is a great capsule for authentic Italian-style espresso.

What's the best Nespresso Capsule for Latte?

Featuring a crowd-pleasing flavor, Livanto is our top pick when it comes to creating a great Latte which is made with espresso, steamed milk and a thin layer of foam (you will need a milk frother)..

What's the best Nespresso Capsule for Macchiato?

A bigger version of the Latte including more milk, Macchiato is particularly satisfying when using a Linizio Lungo pod.

What's the best Nespresso Capsule for Cappuccino?

Similar to Latte but with 3 identical layers of espresso, steam milk and foam, Cappuccino delivers bold aromas and caffeine kicks when prepared with a Roma capsule.

 

ALL NESPRESSO CAPSULES

You can then find lists below including all our pod lines, reviews, favorites and details for each category.


LIMITED EDITION CAPSULES

Tribute To Palermo Nespresso capsule and cup

Nespresso’s Tribute To Palermo capsule and coffee cup

Nespresso’s limited edition capsules are the most sought-after and usually sell out pretty fast. There are several limited edition releases every year, including seasonal for summer and Christmas, and even though they’re not available once they’re out of stock, the company sometimes re-releases some of the most popular such as Cafecito de Cuba and Selection Vintage 2014. While generally, limited edition are far superior from regular capsules, there are also a few exceptions such as the Holiday editions which in some cases can be quite disappointing.

Here is a list of all our Limited Edition Capsules Reviews in chronological order, starting with the most recent 2023 releases and including our best picks:

 

  • Infinitely Espresso: 2022 Limited Edition capsule made of Arabica beans from Tolima, Colombia. Roast: medium-dark. Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: woody, peppery. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Forest Black: 2021 Exclusive Edition espresso organic Arabica beans from Colombia. Roast: split. Intensity: 7/13. Flavor: woody, peppery. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Forest Almond: 2021 Exclusive Edition espresso organic Arabica beans from South America. Roast: split. Intensity: 7/13. Flavor: almond, vanilla, fruity. Rating: 1 stars.
  • Forest Fruit: 2021 Exclusive Edition espresso organic Arabica beans from South America. Roast: split. Intensity: 7/13. Flavor: berry, pastry. Rating: 2 stars.
  • Ispirazione Novecento: 2021 Exclusive Edition espresso organic Arabica beans from Africa and Brazil. Roast: split. Intensity: 9/13. Flavor: cocoa, spicy. Rating: 5 stars.
  • Ispirazione Millennio: 2021 Exclusive Edition espresso organic Arabica beans from Brazil, Colombian and India. Roast: split. Intensity: 8/13. Flavor: spicy, fruity. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Kahawa Ya Congo: 2021 Exclusive Edition espresso organic Arabica beans from Congo. Roast: split. Intensity: 7/13. Flavor: fruity, cereal. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Nicaragua La Cumplida Refinada: 2021 Exclusive Edition espresso organic Arabica beans from Jamaica’s volcanic Blue Mountains. Roast: medium. Intensity: 7/13. Flavor: woody, pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Jamaica Blue Mountain: 2021 Exclusive Edition espresso. Roast: medium. Intensity: 5/13. Flavor: fruity. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Peru Organic: 2021 Exclusive Edition espresso. Roast: medium. Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: fruity, cereal. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Il Caffè: 2020 Exclusive Edition espresso. Roast: dark. Intensity: 13/13. Flavor: roasted, cereal. Rating: 5 stars.
  • Torta Di Nocciole Flavor: 2020 Exclusive Edition espresso. Roast: split. Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: hazelnut, vanilla. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Amaretti Flavor: 2020 Exclusive Edition espresso. Roast: light. Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: almond, vanilla. Rating: 1 star.
  • Yemen: 2020 Exclusive Edition espresso. Roast: medium-dark. Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: floral, roasted. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Nordic Black: 2019 Limited Edition lungo. Roast: split. Intensity: 5/13. Flavor: fruity, cereal. Rating: 2 stars.
  • Nordic Cloudberry: 2019 Limited Edition espresso. Roast: split. Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: fruity, cereal. Rating: 1 star.
  • Nordic Almond Cake: 2019 Limited Edition espresso. Roast: split. Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: fruity, cereal. Rating: 2 stars.
  • Cafecito de Puerto Rico: 2019 Limited Edition espresso. Roast: split. Intensity: 11/13. Flavor: spicy. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Tribute to Trieste: 2019 Limited Edition ristretto. Roast: split. Intensity: 5/13. Flavor: chocolate, hazelnut, fruity. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Flat White Over Ice: 2019 Summer Iced Limited Edition ristretto which should be prepared with milk and ice cubes. Roast: split. Intensity: 5/13. Flavor: spicy, roasted. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Long Black Over Ice: 2019 Summer Iced Limited Edition ristretto which should be prepared with sparking water and ice cubes. Roast: split. Intensity: 5/13. Flavor: acidic, fruity. Rating: 2 stars.
  • Esperanza de Colombia: 2019 Reviving Origins Limited Edition espresso made from Arabica beans from Colombia. Roast: split. Intensity: 5/13. Flavor: fruity. Rating: 2 stars.
  • Master Origin Costa Rica: 2019 Limited Edition espresso made with beans from Costa Rica. Roast: split. Intensity: 7/13. Flavor: malty. Rating: 5 stars.
  • Café Istanbul: 2019 Coffee Houses Limited Edition espresso made from a blend of beans from Yemen, Indonesia and India. Roast: medium. Intensity: 10/13. Flavor: spicy. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Paris Black: 2018 Limited Edition Explorations espresso made from a blend of Arabica and Robusta beans. Roast: dark. Intensity: 9/13. Flavor: cereal, woody, spicy. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Hawaii Kona: 2018 Limited Edition Special Reserve espresso made from Arabica beans from Big Island, Hawaii. Roast: medium. Intensity: 5/13. Flavor: nutty, fruity. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Aurora de la Paz: 2018 Limited Edition Explorations espresso made from 100% Arabica beans. Roast: split. Intensity: 5/13. Flavor: cereal, fruity. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Republica Dominica: 2018 Limited Edition Explorations espresso made from 100% Arabica beans. Roast: medium. Intensity: 5/13. Flavor: fruity, nutty. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Robusta Uganda: 2018 Limited Edition espresso made with Robusta beans from Uganda. Roast: dark. Intensity: 10/13. Flavor: cocoa, caramel, spices. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Arabica Ethiopia Harrar: 2018 Limited Edition espresso made with Arabica beans from Harrar, Ethiopia. Roast: mild. Intensity: 5/13. Flavor: fruity, floral. Rating: 2 stars.
  • Colombia Aguadas Explorations 2:  2018 Limited Edition espresso blend. Roast: light. Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: fruity. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Ethipopia Yrgacheffe Explorations 2:  2018 Limited Edition espresso blend. Roast: light. Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: floral. Rating: 2 stars.
  • Variations Confetto Liquorice: 2017 Limited Edition espresso blend made with Livanto and various spices. Roast: medium. Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: liquorice, candy. Rating: 1 star.
  • Variations Confetto Orangette: 2017 Limited Edition espresso blend made with Livanto, orange peel and chocolate. Roast: medium. Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: orange, chocolate. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Variations Snowball: 2017 Limited Edition espresso blend made with Livanto (Arabica from South and Central America), coconut and vanilla. Roast: medium. Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: coconut, vanilla. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Intenso On Ice: 2017 Limited Edition espresso made with beans from Brazil and Costa Rica. Roast: split. Intensity: 11/13 Flavor: cereal, roasted. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Leggero On Ice: 2017 Limited Edition espresso made with beans from Kenya and Colombia. Roast: light. Intensity: 7/13. Flavor: fruity, lemony. Rating: 2 stars.
  • Laos Bolaven Plateau Explorations 1 : 2017 Limited Edition espresso made with beans from a high altitude region in southern Laos. Roast: split. Intensity: 7/13. Flavor: cereal, wheat. Rating: 2 stars.
  • Kenya Peaberry Explorations 1: 2017 Limited Edition espresso made with beans from Kenya. Roast: split. Intensity: 7/13. Flavor: fruity. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Selection Vintage 2014: 2017 Limited Edition espresso made with Arabica beans from Colombian Highlands. Roast: split. light/dark Intensity: 7/13. Flavor: woody, fruity. Rating: 5 stars.
  • Variations Sachertorte: 2016 Limited Edition espresso made with Arabica beans. Roast: medium. Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: chocolate, apricot. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Variations Linzer Torte: 2016 Limited Edition espresso made with Arabica beans. Roast: medium. Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: red fruits, spiced dough. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Variations Apfelstrudel: 2016 Limited Edition espresso made with Arabica beans. Roast: medium. Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: baked apple, cinnamon. Rating: 2 stars.
  • Suluja Ti South Sudan: 2016 Limited Edition Grand Cru espresso made with Robusta beans from South Sudan, Africa. Roast: medium Intensity: 8/13. Flavor: cereal, woody. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Cafezinho do Brasil: 2016 Limited Edition espresso made with Arabica beans from Brasil. Roast: dark. Intensity: 9/13. Flavor: walnut, herbal. Rating: 2 stars.
  • Cafecito de Cuba: 2016 Limited Edition espresso made with Arabica beans from Cuba. Roast: split, dark. Intensity: 10/13. Flavor: smoky, woody. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Tanim de Chiapas: 2016 Limited Edition espresso made with Arabica beans from from Chiapas, Mexico. Roast: split – light, dark. Intensity: 7/13. Flavor: nutty, bready. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Umutima Wa Lake Kivu Rwanda: 2016 Limited Edition espresso made with Arabica beans from from Lake Kivu, Rwanda. Roast: split – light, dark. Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: fruity. Rating: 5 stars.
  • Tribute to Milano: 2015 Limited Edition espresso made with Arabica beans from South and Central America plus Robusta from Guatemala. Roast: split – dark, light, long. Intensity: 9/13. Flavor: cereal, fruity. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Tribute to Palermo: 2015 Limited Edition espresso made with Arabica and Robusta beans from Africa. Roast: split – dark, medium, long. Intensity: 11/13. Flavor: cacao, spicy. Rating: 5 stars.
  • Peru Secreto: 2015 Limited Edition espresso made with Arabica beans from Peru. Roast: n/a. Intensity: 8/13. Flavor: roasted, cocoa. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Monsoon Malabar: 2015 Limited Edition espresso made with Green coffees from south-western India . Roast: strong. Intensity: 8/13. Flavor: woody, spicy. Rating: 5 stars.

BARISTA CREATIONS

  • Caramel Crème Brûlée: Espresso made from Robusta beans from Brazil and Colombia. Roast: split. Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: caramel, coconut, vanilla. Rating: 2 stars.
  • Chiaro: Ristretto specifically made for cappuccino drinks with Arabica beans from Brazil and Kenya . Roast: split, medium-to-dark. Intensity: 5/13. Flavor: biscuit, caramel. Rating: 2 stars.
  • Cioccolatino: Lungo made from Arabica beans from South America. Roast: light. Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: cocoa, biscuit. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Cocoa Truffle: Espresso made from Robusta beans from Brazil and Colombia. Roast: split. Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: cocoa, cereal. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Coconut Over Ice: Coconut Flavor Over Icemade of Arabica beans from Latin America and Africa. Roast: medium. Intensity: 1/13. Flavor: roasted coconut, caramel, vanilla. Rating: 1 star.
  • Corto: Ristretto made with Arabica beans from India and Robusta beans from Guatemala . Roast: split. Intensity: 11/13. Flavor: acid, bitter. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Filter Style Intense: Lungo made with Arabica beans from South America . Roast: dark. Intensity: 7/13. Flavor: sandalwood, smoky. Rating: 1 star.
  • Filter Style Mild: Lungo made with Arabica beans from South America . Roast: light. Intensity: 4/13. Flavor: fruity, malted cereal. Rating: 1 star.
  • Freddo Delicato: Espresso made of beans from Kenya. Roast: light. Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: fruity. Rating: stars.
  • Freddo Intenso: Espresso made from 100% Arabica beans from South America and Indonesia. Roast: dark. Intensity: 9/13. Flavor: roasted. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Liminha Over Ice:  Brazilian-inspired iced coffee made of Arabica beans. Roast: medium. Intensity: 8/13. Flavor: lime, mint. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Nocciola:  Lungo made of Arabica beans from South America.. Roast: light. Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: praline, biscuit. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Scuro: Espresso specifically made for macchiato drinks with Arabica beans from Costa Rica and Colombia. Roast: split, medium-to-dark. Intensity: 8/13. Flavor: roasted, chocolate. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Vaniglia: Lungo made from Arabica beans from South America. Roast: light. Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: vanilla, cereal, biscuit. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Vanilla Éclair: Espresso made from Robusta beans from Brazil and Colombia. Roast: split. Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: vanilla, cereal. Rating: 3 stars.
Best Nespresso Barista Creations Capsules

ISPIRAZIONE ITALIANA CAPSULES

Kazaar Nespresso capsule and cup

Nespresso’s Kazaar capsule and espresso cup.

Just like the name implies, this line includes Nespresso’s Italian-style intense and darker espresso and ristretto coffee capsules.

Here is a list of all our Intenso Capsules Reviews starting with the strongest and including our best picks:

  • Caffè Venezia: 2019 Coffee Houses Limited Edition lungo made from a blend of beans from India and Ethiopia. Roast: medium. Intensity: 7/13. Flavor: fruity, flowery. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Firenze Arpeggio: espresso/ristretto made with Arabica beans from South America and Central America. Roast: dark. Intensity: 9/13. Flavor: cocoa, malt. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Genova Livanto: Espresso made with Arabica from South and Central America. Roast: dark & light split-roasting. Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: malt, cereal. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Ispirazione Napoli: 2020 Limited Edition espresso. Roast: dark. Intensity: 13/13. Flavor: roasted, bitter. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Palermo Kazaar: espresso/ristretto made with Robusta beans from Brazil and Guatemala. Roast: dark & light split-roasting. Intensity: 12/13. Flavor: bitter with notes of pepper. Rating: 5 stars.
  • Ispirazione Millennio: 2021 Exclusive Edition espresso organic Arabica beans from Brazil, Colombian and India. Roast: split. Intensity: 8/13. Flavor: spicy, fruity. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Ispirazione Novecento: 2021 Exclusive Edition espresso organic Arabica beans from Africa and Brazil.. Roast: split. Intensity: 9/13. Flavor: cocoa, spicy. Rating: 5 stars.
  • Ristretto Italiano: espresso/ristretto made with Arabica and Robusta beans from East Africa and South America. Roast: dark. Intensity: 10/13. Flavor: fruity, chocolaty. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Roma: espresso made with Arabica and Robusta beans from South and Central America. Roast: light. Intensity: 8/13. Flavor: sweet, woody. Rating: 3 stars.
Best Nespresso Intenso Capsule

ESPRESSO CAPSULES

Nespresso Volluto Capsule

Nespresso’s Volluto espresso and capsule

Nespresso’s Espresso line is specifically designed for espresso aficionados, featuring a fine selection of moderately intense coffees including some of our favorite go-to capsules we drink on a daily basis.

Here is a list of all our Espresso Capsules Reviews starting with the strongest and including our best picks:

  • Dharkan: espresso/ristretto made with Arabica beans from Asia and Latin America. Roast: dark. Intensity: 11/13. Flavor: cereals, cocoa. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Volluto: Espresso made with Arabica from South America. Roast: light. Intensity: 4/13. Flavor: fruity, biscuity. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Cosi: Espresso made with Arabica beans from East Africa, South and Central America. Roast: light. Intensity: 3/13. Flavor: citrus, lemon. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Capriccio: Espresso made with Arabica and Robusta beans from South America and Brazil. Roast: light. Intensity: 5/13. Flavor: cereal. Rating: 1 star.
Best Nespresso Espresso Capsules

REVIVING ORIGINS CAPSULES

  • Amaha awe Uganda: 2019 Reviving Origins Limited Edition espresso made from Arabica beans from Uganda. Roast: split. Intensity: 5/13. Flavor: fruity, biscuity. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Tamuka mu Zimbabwe: 2019 Reviving Origins Limited Edition espresso made from Arabica beans from Zimbabwe. Roast: split. Intensity: 5/13. Flavor: fruity, flowery. Rating: 3 stars.

MASTER CRAFTED SINGLE ORIGINS CAPSULES

Paris Black Nespresso capsule review and cup

Nespresso Paris Black review: capsule and coffee cup

Launched in 2018, Nespresso’s Master Origin line mostly features exotic coffees from various parts of the world and is replacing the Pure Origin Line. They have very distinctive flavors.

Here is a list of all our Master Origin Espresso Capsules Reviews starting with the strongest and including our best picks:

  • Aged Sumatra: espresso/lungo made from Arabica beans. Roast: split. Intensity: 8/13. Flavor: woody, chocolaty. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Colombia: espresso/lungo made from 100% Late Harvest Arabica beans. Roast: medium. Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: winey red fruit. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Ethiopia: espresso/lungo made from 100% Arabica beans. Roast: light. Intensity: 4/13. Flavor: fruity, orange blossom. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Honduras: espresso/ristretto made from Arabica beans from Copán, Honduras.. Roast: medium-dark. Intensity: 8/13. Flavor: cereal, cocoa. Rating: 2 stars.
  • India: espresso/lungo made from  Robusta blended with Arabica beans. Roast: split. Intensity: 11/13. Flavor: woody, spicy. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Indonesia: espresso/lungo made from 100% Arabica beans. Roast: split. Intensity: 8/13. Flavor: velvety, woody, tobacco. Rating: 2 stars.
  • Nicaragua: espresso/lungo made from 100% Arabica beans. Roast: split. Intensity: 5/13. Flavor: black honey, cereal. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Papua New Guinea: espresso made with Arabica beans. Roast: medium. Intensity: 5/13. Flavor: fruity, velvety. Rating: 3 stars.
Best Nespresso Master Origin Capsules

WORD EXPLORATIONS

Envivo Lungo Nespresso capsule and cup

Nespresso’s Envivo Lungo capsule and coffee cup

Known as long coffees, lungo coffees are not as concentrated as espressos, making a good alternative for casual coffee drinkers and those who cannot handle espresso shots. Because at Coffee Capsule Guide, we first and foremost are espresso fanatics, we mostly keep lungo for weekends and tend to prefer the lighter capsules, including two of our go-to favorites.

Here is a list of all our Lungo Capsules Reviews including our best picks:

  • Buenos Aires Lungo: Lungo made of Arabica beans from Colombia and Robusta beans from Uganda. Roast: light. Intensity: 4/13. Flavor: sweet, cereal. Rating: 2 stars.
  • Cape Town Envivo Lungo: Lungo made with a blend of green Arabica beans from India and Robusta beans from Mexico. Roast: split-roasting. Intensity: 9/13. Flavor: woody, caramelized, gingerbread. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Istanbul Espresso: Istanbul Espresso is an espresso capsule made of Arabica and Robusta beans.. Roast: medium. Intensity: 8/13. Flavor: fruity, nutty. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Miami Espresso: Espresso/Lungo made with Arabica beans. Roast: medium. Intensity: 8/13. Flavor: woody, cereal. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Rio de Janeiro Espresso: Espresso made of organic Arabica beans from Brazil. Roast: dark. Intensity: 8/13. Flavor: herbal. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Shangai: Lungo: Lungo made of organic Arabica beans from China, Indonesia and Kenya. Roast: medium. Intensity: 5/13. Flavor: fruity, berries. Rating: 2 stars.
  • Stockholm Fortissio Lungo: Lungo made with Arabica beans from India. Roast: split-roasting. Intensity: 8/13. Flavor: cereal. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Vienna Linizio Lungo: Lungo made with Arabicas beans from Brazil and Colombia. Roast: medium. Intensity: 4/13. Flavor: fruity, malted, caramelized. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Tokyo Vivalto Lungo: Lungo made with Arabica beans from South American and East Africa. Roast: split-roasting. Intensity: 4/13. Flavor: floral, cereal. Rating: 4 stars.
Best Nespresso Lungo Capsules

DECAFFEINATO CAPSULES

Decaffeinato Intenso Nespresso capsule and cup

Nespresso’s Decaffeinato Intenso capsule and coffee cup

This line is kind of tricky because we like our coffee caffeinated. However, Nespresso was able to create a couple worthy decaf coffees which we review below.

Here is a non-inclusive list of all our Decaffeinato Capsules Reviews starting with the strongest and including our best picks:

  • Decaffeinato Intenso: Decaf espresso made with Arabica and Robusta beans from South America. Roast: dark. Intensity: 7/13. Flavor: cocoa, cereal. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Volluto Decaffeinato: Decaf espresso made with Arabica beans from South America. Roast: split. Intensity: 4/13. Flavor: biscuity, fruity. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Decaffeinato Lungo: Decaf lungo made with Arabica and Robusta beans from Colombia and Brazil. Roast: light. Intensity: 3/13. Flavor: roasted, cereal. Rating: 1 star.
Best Nespresso Decaffeinato Capsule

VARIATIONS

Vanilio Nespresso capsule and cup

Nespresso’s Vanilio capsule and coffee cup

Here’s another problematic line – as least for me – as I rarely enjoy my coffee mixed with funky flavors. I would mostly use Variations for guests and special occasions such as Holidays.

Here is a non-inclusive list – I skipped caramel which I don’t like – of all our classic Variations Capsules Reviews not including those released as Limited Editions (find them under that category):

  • Vanilio: espresso made with Arabica beans from Costa-Rica and Colombia. Roast: medium. Intensity: 8/13. Flavor: vanilla. Rating: 1 star.
  • Ciocattino: espresso made with Arabica from South and Central America with chocolate notes.. Roast: medium. Intensity: 6/13 Flavor: chocolate, malted, caramelized. Rating: 1 star.
Best Nespresso Variations Capsule
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PURE ORIGIN CAPSULES – DISCONTINUED REPLACED WITH MASTER ORIGIN

Indriya from India Nespresso capsule and cup

Nespresso’s Indriya from India capsule and coffee cup

Nespresso’s Pure Origin line mostly features exotic coffees from various parts of the world. They have very distinctive flavors.

Here is a list of all our Pure Origin Espresso Capsules Reviews starting with the strongest and including our best picks:

  • Indrya from India: Espresso made with Arabica and Robusta beans from Southern India. Roast: split. roasting Intensity: 10/13. Flavor: spicy, cocoa. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Rosabaya de Colombia: Espresso made with Arabica beans from Colombia. Roast: split roasting. Intensity: 6/13. Flavor: fruity, winy. Rating: 4 stars.
  • Dulsão do Brasil: Espresso made with Arabica beans from Brazil. Roast: light. Intensity: 4/13. Flavor: toasted grain. Rating: 3 stars.
  • Bukeela: Lungo made with Arabica from Ethiopia, Africa. Roasting: 1 part shorter and darker + 1 part lighter and longer. Intensity: 3/13. Flavor: fresh, floral. Rating: 2 stars.
Best Nespresso Pure Origin Capsules
Fred

Author: Fred

COFFEE CAPSULE GUIDE FOUNDER Born in Marseille in the South of France, espressos have always been an important part of my life, accompanying me from one cafe terrace to another.

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