?Have you ever wondered whether a compact brick of coffee can deliver a true Italian espresso experience at home?
Product Overview
I bought the Lavazza medium roast Crema e Gusto Ground Coffee, Italian Espresso, 8.8-Ounce Brick to see how a small, affordable tin of ground coffee performs in real-world home brewing. I wanted a reliable, everyday espresso-style coffee that balances crema, body, and convenience.
What it is
This product is a pre-ground medium roast espresso blend packaged in an 8.8-ounce brick, designed to be used in espresso machines and stovetop moka pots. The blend combines fine Arabica and Robusta beans to create a chocolatey, full-bodied cup that aims to be intensely pleasurable and strongly flavored any time of day.
Key features at a glance
The blend is marketed as an Italian coffee mix with a focus on crema and a strong flavor profile, and it arrives already ground to a medium-fine consistency. I appreciated that the pack is compact and simple, which makes it easy to store and use quickly without grinding fresh beans.
Product Specifications
I put together a table to show the basic specs and what they mean for everyday use. This should help you compare features and decide if this product fits your routine.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Product name | Lavazza medium roast Crema e Gusto Ground Coffee, Italian Espresso, 8.8-Ounce Brick |
| Roast level | Medium |
| Bean composition | Blend of Arabica and Robusta |
| Flavor profile | Chocolaty, full-bodied, strong |
| Grind | Pre-ground (medium-fine; espresso/moka friendly) |
| Weight | 8.8 ounces (250 grams) |
| Best for | Espresso machines, moka pots; acceptable in drip but not ideal |
| Packaging | Vacuum-sealed brick |
| Origin | Italian brand; blend from various origins (not single-origin specified) |
| Intended use | Daily espresso-style coffee, milk-based drinks, quick stovetop espresso |
Taste and Aroma
I judge coffee primarily by how it smells and tastes straight from the cup, and this blend makes a clear first impression. The aroma leans toward dark chocolate and roasted nuts, with a hint of earthiness that prepares you for a bold sip.
First sip impressions
On the first sip, I noticed immediate chocolate notes and a comforting roasted sweetness that carries through the mid-palate. The blend’s Robusta content shows up as a bold backbone that supports crema production and a slightly assertive bitterness rather than bright acidity.
Aftertaste and mouthfeel
The aftertaste is pleasantly lingering with cocoa and toasted bread notes, and the mouthfeel is thick and syrupy enough to feel substantial in an espresso shot or moka pot extraction. The crema holds decently for several minutes, especially in a freshly warmed cup, leaving a tactile satisfaction.
Brewing Performance
I tested this coffee in several common home brewing methods to show how it behaves across different equipment. I describe my results and any adjustments I made so you can replicate or tweak the process.
Espresso machines
When pulled as an espresso on a semi-automatic machine, the Lavazza Crema e Gusto produced a good crema and a full-bodied cup with chocolate and toasted cereal notes. I found that dialing in slightly finer than the packaged grind helped improve extraction uniformity and reduced under-extracted sourness.
Moka pot (stovetop espresso)
In my moka pot tests, the coffee delivered exactly the strong, concentrated cup I expect from Italian blends; it handled the heat well and did not taste thin or watery. The robust character and chocolate profile made it ideal for single servings and for building milk drinks like lattes.
Drip coffee and French press
Using this coffee in a drip brewer or French press is possible, but it doesn’t shine the way it does in pressure-based brewing methods. In a French press, the grind was somewhat fine for optimal immersion; I recommend a coarser grind for this method to reduce sediment and highlight subtler flavors.
Packaging and Freshness
Packaging matters when you buy pre-ground coffee, and the 8.8-ounce brick is compact and vacuum-wrapped to help preserve aroma. I found the vacuum seal effective at keeping the coffee reasonably fresh for several weeks after opening, but because it’s already ground, I use it up faster than whole beans.
Opening and resealing
The brick opens easily, and while it doesn’t include a resealable zip, I transfer the remainder into an airtight container or a small canister to preserve freshness. I noticed the flavor starts to fade after a couple of weeks if left exposed, so airtight storage in a cool, dark place is critical.
Shelf life and best-by guidance
Lavazza’s vacuum packaging extends shelf life compared to loose bags, but ground coffee will inevitably lose volatile aromatics sooner than whole beans. I recommend consuming within two to four weeks after opening for the best experience, and I check the smell and taste before everyday use.
Value and Price
I evaluate value by flavor relative to cost and convenience, and in my experience this product presents strong value for money. For those who want a solid Italian espresso blend without the premium cost of single-origin or specialty roasted whole beans, this brick is an economical choice.
Cost per cup
Given the 8.8-ounce size, you’re not getting the largest volume, so cost per cup might be higher than bulk bags for heavy drinkers. For moderate daily use—one to two espresso shots or a single moka pot serving per person—the price is reasonable, especially when convenience is factored in.
Who benefits from the price point
If you drink espresso-style coffee frequently and don’t own a grinder or don’t want the fuss of fresh grinding, this product’s pre-ground convenience is a big plus. If you’re a specialty coffee purist who chases bright acidity and single-origin clarity, you might prefer a pricier whole-bean option.
Who This Coffee Is For
I think this coffee is best for people who appreciate a strong, comforting Italian-style espresso without a lot of fuss. I would recommend it to users who prioritize crema and body over delicate acidity.
Ideal user profiles
This is a great match for home baristas with semi-automatic machines, moka pot enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys milk-based drinks like cappuccinos and lattes that pair well with chocolatey beans. I would also suggest it to busy people who want a reliable everyday espresso without measuring out beans and grinding every morning.
Who should pass
If you prefer bright, fruity, or floral coffee or if you require freshly ground beans for maximum aroma, this pre-ground medium roast might feel limiting. I’d also caution those who want single-origin transparency or a lighter roast profile to consider alternatives.
Pros and Cons
I always find it helpful to summarize the main strengths and weaknesses so you can make a quick judgment. These reflect my experience using the Lavazza Crema e Gusto ground brick at home.
Pros
- The flavor is richly chocolatey and full-bodied, which makes it satisfying for espresso and milk drinks.
- Good crema for a pre-ground blend, thanks to Robusta in the mix.
- Convenient vacuum-brick packaging that is easy to store and transport.
- Affordable relative to many specialty whole-bean brands.
- Versatile for espresso machines and moka pots.
Cons
- Being pre-ground, it loses peak freshness faster than whole beans.
- Not ideal for methods that benefit most from a specific grind size like pour-over without regrinding.
- The 8.8-ounce size is relatively small for heavy daily drinkers, meaning more frequent repurchases.
- Not a single-origin or specialty profile for people who want origin transparency.
Comparison with Similar Products
I like to compare to other Italian-style blends to see how this one stacks up. I compared it informally with Lavazza Super Crema and Illy medium roast to give context.
Lavazza Crema e Gusto vs Lavazza Super Crema
Compared to Lavazza Super Crema, the Crema e Gusto is a bit stronger and darker due to a higher Robusta presence, which gives it more punch and better crema. Super Crema tends to be smoother and slightly more balanced with brighter notes, while Crema e Gusto emphasizes chocolate and body.
Lavazza Crema e Gusto vs Illy Medium Roast
Illy is often more refined and consistent with lighter sweetness and a floral note that some people enjoy, but it’s typically more expensive. I noticed Crema e Gusto aims for power and comfort—more robust flavor for less money—while Illy goes after a cleaner, more delicate sweetness.
Brewing Tips I Use
I’ve adjusted my technique when using this coffee to get the best results, and these are the steps I’d recommend trying. Small changes can make a big difference when using pre-ground coffee.
For espresso machines
I pull slightly finer than the packaged grind setting and use a firm, even tamp of about 30 pounds pressure to promote a uniform extraction. I preheat the portafilter and cup to maintain temperature stability, and I aim for a 25–30 second extraction window for a 1:2 ratio (e.g., 18g in / 36g out) as a starting point.
For moka pots
I use a medium-fine fill without tamping, a medium-low heat, and I remove the pot from heat as soon as the brew stream becomes steady and a bit sputtery. This technique preserves some of the aromatic oils and reduces bitter over-extraction.
For French press or drip
For French press I coarsen the grind if possible by sifting or mixing with a coarser coffee, steeping for 3–4 minutes and plunging gently. For drip brewers, I use a slightly finer-than-normal setting and ensure the filter-to-coffee ratio is balanced to avoid overly strong bitterness.
Pairings and Serving Suggestions
I enjoy pairing coffee with food because the right combination can elevate both elements. Here are combinations that worked well for me with this blend.
Breakfast and pastries
The chocolate and toasted notes pair beautifully with buttery croissants, almond biscotti, and dark chocolate tarts. I find that the coffee’s heft offsets sweet pastries without getting lost.
Milk-based drinks
This blend is excellent in flat whites, cappuccinos, and lattes since its chocolatey backbone holds up to steamed milk. I like adding a small dusting of cocoa or cinnamon on top to enhance the chocolate notes.
Savory pairings
I sometimes pair this coffee with savory breakfast items such as smoked ham, aged cheeses, or roasted mushrooms; the coffee’s roast character complements umami and saltiness well. The result is surprisingly balanced and satisfying for a brunch spread.
Sustainability and Sourcing
I care about where my coffee comes from and how it’s produced, and I consider this when assessing value. Lavazza is a large company with various sustainability initiatives, but this specific product does not advertise single-origin or direct-trade sourcing on the brick.
What I could confirm
The coffee is a blend of Arabica and Robusta, sourced from multiple origins, aiming to produce a consistent Italian-style profile rather than highlighting origin-specific farming practices. Lavazza does have broader sustainability programs, but if you require full transparency about farm-level practices, this product is not marketed primarily for that feature.
My perspective on environmental impact
I like that the brick packaging is compact, which reduces volume for shipping and storage, but I would prefer a resealable bag or recyclable option to reduce waste. If sustainability and traceability are top priorities for you, consider certified single-origin offerings or direct-trade brands.
Storage and Shelf Life
Proper storage matters more with pre-ground coffee, and I follow a few simple rules to keep this brick tasting its best for as long as possible. My experience shows that simple practices can stretch the decent flavor window significantly.
How I store it
After opening, I transfer remaining coffee into a small airtight container and store it in a cool, dark cupboard away from heat and sunlight. I avoid the refrigerator or freezer for daily-use coffee, because moisture and temperature fluctuations can degrade flavor.
Expected shelf life
If unopened and stored properly, the vacuum packaging keeps the coffee reasonably fresh for months; after opening, expect peak flavors for about two to four weeks. I consume or rotate the coffee quickly to avoid stale or flat-tasting cups.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
I compiled common questions I had before buying and the answers I discovered through testing. These should help address practical concerns.
Is this suitable for espresso machines?
Yes, it’s intended as an espresso-style blend and performs well in espresso machines and moka pots, producing good crema and strong body. I recommend dialing in grind and tamp to match your machine.
Is the grind suitable for pour-over?
The pre-ground size is optimized for pressure-based brewing, so pour-over might be less than ideal without regrinding or adjusting technique. You can still use it in pour-over, but expect less clarity and more body.
How much caffeine does it contain?
There isn’t an exact caffeine number printed on the brick, but because it contains Robusta, it will be on the higher side compared to 100% Arabica blends. Your actual caffeine per cup will vary by dose, extraction, and brewing method.
Is it fresh enough if pre-ground?
Pre-ground coffee is always a compromise versus whole beans. The vacuum brick helps maintain freshness, and if you store it airtight and use it within a few weeks, you’ll get a satisfying cup.
My Personal Experience Over Time
I used this coffee for several weeks to get a sense of consistency and how my impression held up over repeated brews. My longer-term experience reinforced initial impressions and uncovered small adjustments that improved results.
Consistency across batches
The blend stayed consistent across multiple bricks; flavor and crema quality were predictable, which is a big plus for daily use. I appreciated that I didn’t need to recalibrate dramatically between purchases.
How my routine adapted
I started keeping a small airtight jar on the counter and bought a slightly larger tamper to ensure consistent pressure in the portafilter. These small habit changes improved crema and reduced channeling, making the coffee feel even better as an everyday option.
Final Thoughts and Recommendation
After spending time with the Lavazza medium roast Crema e Gusto Ground Coffee, Italian Espresso, 8.8-Ounce Brick, I can say it delivers a satisfying, traditional Italian espresso character with good crema and a chocolate-forward profile. I recommend it to people who want a convenient, affordable, full-bodied espresso blend that performs well in pressure-based home brewing and milk-based drinks.
Who I would recommend it to most
If you value a bold, comforting cup, prefer convenience over ultimate freshness, and enjoy milk drinks that need a strong base, this coffee will likely hit the spot for you. If you’re a specialty coffee purist or want the freshest possible beans and granular origin detail, you may want to look at whole-bean alternatives.
Final verdict in one line
I find it to be a reliable, wallet-friendly Italian-style espresso blend that consistently delivers chocolatey, full-bodied shots with good crema—an excellent everyday choice for many home espresso lovers.
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