Essence

Essence from Alma Coffee is the espresso roast that breaks all the rules—in the best way. Roasted longer than typical espresso profiles to unlock deep extraction potential, this blend delivers warm chocolate notes that shine whether you're pulling a solo shot or building milk-based drinks. But here's the secret: Alma's own team prefers brewing Essence on drip or French press, where its full-bodied character truly blooms. That versatility makes it ideal for home baristas who want one bag that does it all.

Tasting Notes

Essence leads with rich chocolate sweetness, backed by a smooth, syrupy body that coats the palate. The extended roast development breaks down acidity into gentle warmth, creating a forgiving cup with subtle caramel undertones. The finish is clean and lingering, with just enough bittersweet cocoa to balance milk's natural sugars. This isn't a bright, fruit-forward coffee—it's the comforting, crowd-pleasing espresso your machine was built for.

Brew Methods

While designed for espresso machines of all types, Essence adapts beautifully to immersion methods. Try it in a French press for a full-bodied morning cup, or brew it through drip for a chocolate-forward alternative to lighter roasts. The dark roast profile means it extracts readily without channeling, making it forgiving for dialing in. Pair with milk for cappuccinos and lattes, or pull a straight shot to appreciate its straightforward espresso character.

About the Roaster

Alma Coffee is a family operation rooted in five generations of Guatemalan coffee farming. Co-owner Leticia transformed Finca La Unica from cattle pasture into a high-altitude estate where coffee trees grow alongside strategic shade and wild fruit. That farm-to-roaster connection shows in every batch they produce.

Clive's team is here to recommend grinder settings, machine pairings, and brew ratios that bring out Essence's best—whether you're pulling shots or exploring its unexpected drip-coffee side.