For many coffee lovers, there’s nothing better than a cup of black coffee in the morning. But what’s the best coffee to drink black?
The best coffee to drink black is Volcanica’s Tanzania Peaberry!
But with so many coffee varieties and brewing methods available, how do you know which one is the best for drinking without any added cream or sugar?
In this article, we’ll explore the world of black coffee and discover the best coffee to drink black, coffee types types, brewing techniques, and tips for enjoying a perfect black brew.
Here is the best coffee to drink black
Best Overall
Volcanica’s coffees are genuinely stunning, and are the perfect coffee to drink black.
Runner-up
100% Kona Coffee Private Reserve is a delicious treat, and I’m still considering making this #1.
Understanding Black Coffee
Black coffee is a staple in the world of coffee lovers. It is a simple yet delicious drink that can be enjoyed any time of day.
The beauty of black coffee is that it allows you to savor the unique flavor profile of the coffee bean without any distractions.
This bold and robust drink is perfect for those who want to enjoy the full flavor of their coffee without any additives like milk, cream or sugar.
When it comes to black coffee, not all coffee is created equal. This makes it so tough to decide on the best coffee to drink black!
Some varieties are better suited for this style than others. To truly appreciate the flavors of black coffee, it’s important to choose the right coffee beans.
That’s why with I’ve recommended the following two coffees for you to try.
Volcanica – Tanzania Peaberry Coffee
The best coffee to drink black
- Roast Profile: Medium Light Roast
- Tasting Notes: Dried Fruit, Savory Chocolate, and Orange
- Origin/Blend: Single Origin from Tanzania from the Nitin Estate
- Eco-friendly: Yes
- Fair Trade: Not listed
- Site Experience: 5/5
- Purchasing options: Choice of bag size. Choice of whole bean or ground for drip, espresso, or French press.
What we like:
- Incredible taste
- The mouthfeel was out of this world
- Reasonably priced
Things to consider:
- It was more acidic than I expected, but that could be user error!
As a coffee enthusiast, I have had the opportunity to taste the Tanzanian Peaberry coffee from Volcanica Coffee, and it did not disappoint.
When I tried this coffee, I was immediately struck by its rich body and intense flavor.
It leapt out of the cup, grabbed me by the scruff of my shirt, slapped me around and proclaimed, “I am the best coffee to drink black!” I mean, not really, but I wouldn’t be surprised if that happened, it’s THAT good!
The coffee had a lovely, fragrant aroma, which reminded me of a little bit of the scent you get when drinking wine. This aroma gave it such a unique taste that I couldn’t shake for the rest of the day.
In the background of this coffee, you get delicate notes of dried fruit and chocolate, with just a hint of orange.
That, and the wine aroma reminded me of the time I got drunk while munching on a Terry’s Chocolate Orange! (You can buy those here by the way.)
One of the unique aspects of the Tanzanian Peaberry coffee is that it is a low acid coffee, making it an excellent option for people who have more sensitive tummies.
This coffee is also UTZ Certified, which means it is produced sustainably and offers better opportunities for farmers and their families.
Overall, I found this coffee to be the best coffee to drink black because it’s so packed full of lovely flavour.
While it may not be suitable for everyone’s taste or budget, the Tanzanian Peaberry coffee from Volcanica Coffee is definitely worth trying for those who are looking for a distinctive coffee experience.
Private Reserve Medium Roast 100% Kona Coffee
The 2nd-best coffee to drink black
- Roast Profile: Medium Roast
- Tasting Notes: Honey, Lemon, and Almond
- Origin/Blend: Single Origin from Costa Rica from the Aquiares Estate
- Organic: Not listed
- Eco-friendly: Yes
- Fair Trade: Not listed
- Site Experience: 5/5
- Purchasing options: Choice of bag size. Choice of whole bean or ground for drip, espresso, or French press.
What we like:
- Good taste
- Light body with pleasant acidity
- Rainforest Alliance Certified
- Reasonably priced
Things to consider:
- The flavor might not be bold enough for some
When I tried this 100% Kona Coffee from Hawaii Coffee Company, I found it to be a very aromatic and smooth coffee with a full-bodied mouthfeel. Let me explain I think this is the 2nd best coffee to drink black.
Drinking this coffee made it immediately clear to me why this coffee has been judged as “superior” by the American Academy of Taste.
I used an Aeropress to make this coffee, and I thought the flavors of the Kona beans were rich, bold, and delicious when I tasted them. A really nice surprise as it was my first time trying them!
This coffee is perfect for any occasion, from an early morning pick-me-up to a post-dinner treat. I enjoyed the fact that it is available in both whole bean and all-purpose grind, making it easy to prepare in whichever way suits your preference.
However, I did find that the coffee could be a bit too mild for my taste, especially if you prefer a stronger cup of coffee.
Despite drinking it black, it still wasn’t as bold as most other medium roast coffees. So, if you are someone who likes a strong and robust coffee flavor, this may not be the best option for you.
Also worth noting, this coffee can be a bit expensive compared to other coffee blends on the market. While the quality is undoubtedly excellent, it may not be affordable for everyone.
Generally speaking though, I would still highly recommend this 100% Kona Coffee as one of the best coffees to drink black. Especially to anyone who enjoys a smooth, flavorful coffee that is not too strong.
It is a delicious and aromatic coffee that is perfect for any coffee lover who enjoys the taste of 100% Kona coffee.
While it may be a bit expensive and mild for some, I believe the quality of this coffee is worth the investment. It is truly a top-quality coffee that is sure to please. I’m still so torn about putting this at #1 as the overall best coffee to drink black, but I just can’t do it.
You’ll have to try for yourself.
What Makes a Coffee Ideal for Drinking Black
When choosing a coffee for black brewing, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, you want to look for coffee beans that have a strong, distinct flavor profile.
Coffees with notes of chocolate, caramel, or fruit will be especially enjoyable when consumed black. These flavors are able to shine through without any milk or sugar to mask them.
Second, you want to look for coffee beans that have been roasted to a level that will allow their unique flavor to shine through.
A light-to-medium roast is generally recommended for black coffee brewing. This allows the coffee to retain its natural flavors and aromas, without being overpowered by the roasting process.
Finally, you want to look for coffee beans that are single-origin or blended in a way that complements the black brewing style.
Single-origin coffees are grown in a particular region and have unique flavor characteristics that are specific to that area. Blends, on the other hand, are a combination of different types of coffee beans that are roasted together to create a unique flavor profile.
In my personal opinion, I find single origins the best coffee to drink black, although blends are special in their own right!
The Benefits of Drinking Black Coffee
Rattling off the best coffee to drink black is a difficult task if we don’t even know WHY we want it. For me it’s the obscured flavor, but let’s not discount the other benefits!
There are several benefits to drinking black coffee. For starters, it’s a calorie-free beverage that can help you stay hydrated throughout the day.
This means you can enjoy your coffee guilt-free, without worrying about adding extra calories to your diet!
Black coffee is also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your body from cell damage caused by free radicals.
Antioxidants are important for maintaining good health and can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s.
Finally, for those who are watching their sugar intake or trying to cut back on dairy, black coffee provides a comforting and satisfying coffee experience without any added extras.
It’s a simple pleasure that can be enjoyed any time of day, and the perfect way to start your morning or unwind after a long day.
The Art of Coffee Brewing
Now that we’ve covered the basics of why black coffee is so enjoyable, let’s explore the art of coffee brewing.
There are several factors to consider when brewing coffee, including the type of beans, brewing method, water quality, and temperature.
Choosing the Right Coffee Beans
The quality of the coffee beans you choose will have a significant impact on the final flavor of your black coffee.
To ensure the best possible taste, look for freshly roasted coffee beans that are a good fit for black coffee brewing.
Specialty coffee shops are a great place to start your search for high-quality beans, and many offer online sales for those who prefer to order from home.
When selecting your beans, consider factors such as the region they were grown in, the altitude at which they were grown, and the roasting process.
Different regions produce coffee with unique flavors and characteristics, so it’s worth trying beans from a variety of locations to find your favorite.
Perfecting Your Brewing Technique
Once you’ve selected your coffee beans, it’s time to start perfecting your brewing technique.
There are many different methods for brewing black coffee, but some popular ones are Pour-Over Technique, French Press, AeroPress, and Cold Brew.
Here’s how to make french press coffee so delicious your barista cries.
Each method requires a different level of skill and attention to detail, so it’s important to practice and experiment to find the method that works best for you.
If you’re new to coffee brewing, the Pour-Over Technique is a great place to start. This method involves pouring hot water over coffee grounds in a filter, allowing the water to drip through and extract the coffee’s flavor.
It’s a simple and effective method that allows you to control the strength and flavor of your coffee.
Don’t worry, I’ll teach you how to make pour over like a champion.
For those who prefer a stronger, more full-bodied coffee, the French Press is a great option. This method involves steeping coffee grounds in hot water for several minutes, then pressing down a plunger to separate the grounds from the liquid.
The result is a rich, flavorful coffee that is perfect for those who enjoy a bold taste.
If you’re looking for a quick and easy brewing method, the AeroPress is a great choice. This method involves using a small, portable device to brew coffee quickly and efficiently.
Simply add coffee grounds and hot water to the device, stir, and press the liquid through a filter. The result is a smooth, clean-tasting coffee that is perfect for on-the-go brewing.
Alternatively, if you prefer a cold, refreshing coffee, the Cold Brew method is a great option.
This method involves steeping coffee grounds in cold water for several hours, resulting in a smooth, low-acid coffee that is perfect for hot summer days.
Never made cold brew? Read our ultimate guide on how to make cold brew coffee.
The Importance of Water Quality and Temperature
The quality of your water is another crucial factor when it comes to brewing black coffee.
Water that is too hard or too soft can affect the taste of your coffee, so it's essential to find the right balance. If your tap water is not of good quality, consider using filtered or bottled water instead.
The temperature at which you brew your coffee is also important.
The ideal brewing temperature for black coffee is around 195-205 degrees Fahrenheit, so using a high-quality kettle that can maintain this temperature is a good investment for coffee lovers.
If your water is too hot or too cold, it can affect the flavor of your coffee and result in a less than perfect cup.
Overall, the art of coffee brewing is a complex and fascinating process that requires attention to detail and a willingness to experiment.
By selecting high-quality beans, perfecting your brewing technique, and paying attention to water quality and temperature, you can create a delicious cup of black coffee that is sure to impress even the most discerning coffee connoisseur.
Top Coffee Varieties for Drinking Black
Are you a coffee lover who enjoys a good cup of black coffee? If so, you’re in luck! There are plenty of coffee varieties that are perfect for black coffee brewing.
Below are some of the top coffee varieties that you should consider trying.
Single-Origin Coffees
Single-origin coffees are sourced from a single geographic region, allowing you to enjoy the distinct flavor profile of that area’s coffee beans.
For example, Colombian coffee is known for its mild, sweet flavor, while Ethiopian coffee is known for its fruity and floral notes. Sumatran coffee, on the other hand, has a bold and earthy flavor.
When brewing single-origin coffee, it’s important to pay attention to the roast level. Lighter roasts tend to highlight the unique flavors of the coffee beans, while darker roasts can mask some of those flavors.
Volcanica and Driftaway coffee are my two best picks for single origin coffees.
Specialty Blends
If you’re looking for a more complex coffee experience, consider trying a specialty blend.
These blends are a mix of different coffee beans that have been carefully selected and roasted to create a unique flavor profile. Some popular specialty blends include Breakfast Blend, French Roast, and Espresso Blend.
When brewing specialty blends, it’s important to pay attention to the brewing method. Some blends are better suited for drip coffee makers, while others are better suited for espresso machines.
La Colombe is a great example of how blends can compete with even the best single origin coffees.
Light, Medium, and Dark Roasts
When it comes to black coffee brewing, light to medium roasts tend to be a better option because they allow the coffee bean’s natural flavor to shine through.
Light roasts have a mild flavor and a light body, while medium roasts have a slightly stronger flavor and a medium body.
However, some coffee lovers prefer the boldness of a dark roast. Dark roasts have a strong, bold flavor and a full body. If you prefer dark roast coffee, look for varieties that have a smooth finish to avoid any bitterness.
No matter what type of coffee you prefer, there are plenty of options available for black coffee brewing.
Whether you enjoy single-origin coffees, specialty blends, or dark roasts, there’s a coffee out there that will suit your taste buds perfectly.
Best Coffee Brewing Methods for Black Coffee
We’ve already touched on some popular coffee brewing methods like Pour-Over Technique, French Press, AeroPress, and Cold Brew. But which brewing method is best for black coffee?
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. Each method will produce a slightly different flavor profile, so it’s worth experimenting with different techniques to find the one that suits you.
Pour-Over Technique
The Pour-Over Technique involves pouring hot water over coffee grounds that have been placed in a filter.
This method allows for precise control over the water-to-coffee ratio and brewing time, resulting in a clean and nuanced cup of black coffee.
French Press
The French Press is a classic brewing method that produces a bold, full-bodied cup of coffee.
To brew coffee with a French Press, coarsely ground coffee beans are steeped in hot water for several minutes before being pressed through a filter.
AeroPress
The AeroPress is a modern coffee brewing device that combines the best aspects of a French Press and a Pour-Over Technique.
Coffee grounds are steeped in hot water for a short amount of time before being pressed through a paper filter using air pressure. The result is a smooth and rich cup of black coffee.
Cold Brew
Cold Brew is a unique brewing method that involves steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period of time. The result is a smooth and refreshing cup of black coffee that is perfect for hot summer days.
Conclusion
Drinking black coffee is an excellent way to enjoy the unique flavors of coffee without any added distractions.
By choosing the right coffee beans, brewing method, and water temperature, you can create a perfect black coffee experience every time.
Experiment with different methods and varieties to find the perfect cup for your tastes, and enjoy the rich and complex flavors of black coffee.
Now, look at our choices of best coffee for French press, or the best Turkish coffee brands.