Why We Only Sell Whole Beans for Espresso

Dairy Beanz Team

Why We Don’t Sell Pre-Ground Coffee for Espresso

At Dairy Beanz, we’re passionate about helping our customers experience the freshest, most flavorful coffee possible. One of the ways we ensure this is by selling only whole beans for espresso, and we often get asked: why no pre-ground option? The answer comes down to freshness, precision, and customization—three crucial aspects of crafting the perfect espresso shot.

1. Freshness Matters

Coffee’s vibrant flavors and aromas come from its natural oils, which start to dissipate as soon as the beans are ground. Pre-ground coffee, even when vacuum-sealed, can lose much of its complexity within days. Espresso, in particular, relies on these delicate compounds to create the rich, bold taste and enticing crema we all love. By selling whole beans, we’re ensuring you start with the freshest base for your brew.

2. Grinding for Espresso Requires Precision

Espresso machines are sensitive, requiring a grind size that’s tailored to your specific machine and preferences. A grind that’s too coarse will result in a watery, under-extracted shot, while a grind that’s too fine can clog your machine and lead to over-extraction.

Pre-ground coffee simply can’t account for these nuances. Different espresso machines and setups call for unique adjustments, which are best made with a quality burr grinder right before brewing.

3. Customization to Suit Your Taste

Every espresso lover’s ideal shot is unique. Some prefer a short, intense ristretto, while others enjoy a smooth, balanced lungo. By grinding your beans fresh, you can experiment with grind size, dose, and tamping pressure to craft the perfect shot for your palate. Pre-ground coffee locks you into one grind size, limiting your ability to customize and explore.

4. Preserving Your Investment in Quality Beans

We put a lot of care into sourcing and roasting our coffee to bring out its best flavors. Selling it as whole beans ensures that the quality we work so hard to deliver isn’t compromised. Grinding your coffee just before brewing is the final step in safeguarding the integrity of our product.

Tips for Grinding Espresso at Home

If you’re new to brewing espresso, investing in a quality burr grinder is essential. Burr grinders provide consistency and allow for precise adjustments. Here are a few tips to get started:

  • Dial in your grind size: Start with a medium-fine setting and adjust based on the flow and taste of your shot.
  • Grind only what you need: Measure your beans for each shot to keep the rest of your coffee fresh.
  • Clean your grinder regularly: Residual oils and grounds can build up, affecting the flavor of your coffee over time.
Learn other brewing methods, check out our Brewing Guides and Tips.


The Dairy Beanz Commitment

At Dairy Beanz, we’re committed to helping you brew the best cup of coffee possible. Selling whole beans for espresso aligns with our mission to deliver freshness, quality, and a superior coffee experience. If you’re ready to elevate your espresso game, we’ve got the beans—you bring the grinder and creativity.

Happy brewing!

Back to blog