When it comes to cafe-quality coffee at home, your beans matter – and so does how you brew them.
At The Espresso Club™, we created Rich Strong for those who love bold flavour and a thick crema, no matter your brewing method.
Whether you’re an early-riser espresso fan or a silky latte lover, here’s how to get the most out of our boldest blend – your way.
What is Rich Strong?
Rich Strong is our darkest blend, roasted specifically for automatic espresso machines, but it also performs beautifully across a range of brewing styles.
Expect full-bodied flavour, chocolate and caramel notes and a smooth intensity, not bitterness, with a thick golden crema (especially in press-button home espresso machines).
This is the blend that delivers a cafe-style hit without needing to dial in every detail. It’s designed for flavour that holds up in milk, shines on its own, and keeps you coming back for another cup.
How to Brew Rich Strong at Home
1. With an Automatic Espresso Machine
This is where our Rich Strong Blend shines.
Automatic espresso machines do everything – grind, dose, tamp, extract – at the touch of a button.
Tips:
- Adjust your strength setting to medium-strong
- Use around 18g of coffee per shot (standard double shot)
- Keep the grind medium-fine, depending on your machine's default
- Try it as a short black or top it with steamed milk for a rich flat white
Bonus: Add dairy or oat milk – our Rich Strong Blend holds it own in milk beautifully.
2. With a Manual Espresso Machine
Our Rich Strong Blend works great in manual setups too – especially if you like a fuller flavour.
Tips:
- Dial in using a 1:2 ratio (18g in, 36g out)
- Pull your shot in 25-30 seconds
- Tightly pack/tamp the puck
- Great for flat whites, cappuccinos or iced long blacks
3. With a Moka Pot
No espresso machine? No problem. Our Rich Strong Blend brews beautifully in a stovetop.
Tips:
- Use a medium-fine grind
- Fill the basket evenly, no tamping
- Heat slowly to avoid bitterness
- Expect a bold, espresso-like result – excellent with a dash of milk
4. With an Aeropress (Espresso-Style)
A great travel option that can still give you that espresso kick.
Tips:
- Use 18g of coffee with 50-60ml hot water
- Use the inverted method and a 1-minute steep for a strong, syrupy shot
- Press slowly for best flavour
- Enjoy straight or top with frothed milk
5. With a French Press
A classic method that’s easy to master and perfect for a smooth, rich cup at home. Read our full French Press brewing guide here.
Tips:
- Use 30g of coffee with 500ml of hot water (just off the boil)
- Go for a coarse grind (similar to sea salt)
- Stir gently after pouring water, then place the lid on
- Steep for 4 minutes, then press the plunger down slowly and evenly
- Pour and enjoy right away (don't leave it sitting – it keeps brewing!)
Brew it Your Way
The beauty of our Rich Strong Blend is in its versatility. However you take your coffee – strong and black, smooth and milky, on ice, or travel-ready – this blend delivers the same quality, body, and flavour you expect from a great espresso, no matter the machine.
