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Learn about capsule coffee intensity
If you have bought Nespresso capsules before,
most likely you would have come across the term 'intensity'.
The more intense a coffee is, the higher the number.
So then, what does high intensity refer to?
Learn about the intensity and features of each type of
capsule coffee with Nespresso Professional.
The meaning of capsule coffee intensity
Classified through three standards
The intensity of Nespresso coffee is not based on the amount
of caffeine content, but is determined through careful
consideration of a coffee's body, bitterness, and roasting aroma.
Let's take a closer look at each category.
Roasting aroma is a scent produced during the coffee
roasting process. Regardless of roasting time, it resembles
the smell of roasted beans and is mostly noticeable
when the coffee is being brewed.
Bitterness is the taste perceived at the tip of the tongue,
similar to the flavors found in chicory, and dark chocolate.
Body refers to the richness, density, and weight of the coffee
felt in the mouth. A high-bodied coffee leaves a heavy
and rich aftertaste, whereas a coffee with a low body feels
smooth and light, similar to water.
High Intensity Capsule Coffee
Introducing capsule coffee with an intensity of 7 or higher
Nespresso Professional labels intensity from 0 to 12.
Here are the coffee capsules with an intensity of 7 or higher,
listed in descending order of intensity.
Intensity 12 - Ristretto Intenso
The highest intensity, 'Ristretto Intenso',
offers a strong bitterness and rich body.
It is characterized by spicy and woody notes.
Intensity 11 - Starbucks® Espresso Roast
This intense coffee features
a sweet caramel-like roasting aroma.
Intensity 9 - Ristretto
Dark-roasted coffee that provides a rich body
and texture with pronounced cocoa notes.
Intensity 8 - Intenso, Starbucks® House Blend
'Intenso' is created by roasting two different beans in
separate ways, resulting in a strong but smooth cocoa flavor.
Similarly, 'Starbucks® House Blend
offers a well-balanced coffee flavor
with sweet toffee notes.
Intensity 7 - Forte, Decaffeinato
'Forte' has a high intensity with a hint of acidity
and jam-like berry notes, perfect for adding a
refreshing touch in the afternoon.
For those who want to enjoy coffee without worrying
about caffeine, 'Decaffeinato' is a great choice.
Low Intensity Capsule Coffee
Introducing capsule coffee with an intensity of 6 or lower.
Nespresso Professional also offers lower-intensity coffees
with subtle and appealing aromas.
Intensity 6 - Leggero, Guatemala,
Starbucks® Blonde Espresso Roast
'Leggero' features lightly roasted beans with a
smooth grain and cocoa aroma.
'Guatemala' also at intensity 6, combines malt and
grain aromas, offering a delightful flavor profile.
'Starbucks® Blonde Espresso Roast'
is delicately roasted, providing a soft and sweet aroma.
It's perfect for a gentle start to your morning
and pairs well with milk.
Intensity 5 - Finezzo
Lightly roasted Finezzo offers a blend of jasmine,
range blossom, and bergamot flower aromas,
giving a sense of being surrounded by a secret garden.
It’s a great choice for an afternoon refreshment.
