Coffee Blog
How to Brew Rich Strong Blend
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. Find your nearest Woolworths Shop Online
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Do I Need An Espresso Machine For These Beans?
At The Espresso Club™, we craft our specialty coffee blends with home brewing in mind, aiming to bring quality espresso experiences to your kitchen. While our beans are perfect for espresso machines, we understand that not everyone has one – so, let's explore how you can enjoy our coffee, regardless of your equipment. Designed for home espresso machines Our Smooth Medium Blend and Rich Strong Blend are roasted specifically for home espresso machines. This means: Optimal extraction:The roast profile is tailored to extract rich flavours under the high pressure of home espresso machines Flavour balance: Expect notes of chocolate and caramel, delivering a well-rounded cup Crema formation:Our beans are ideal for producing that desirable crema on top of your espresso shot Don't have an espresso machine? No problem. Our beans are versatile and can be brewed using various methods. Stovetop Flavour: Produces a strong, espresso-like coffee Grind size: Medium-fine Tip:Fill the filter basket without tamping and brew over medium heat Aeropress Flavour: Offers a concentrated, smooth cup Grind size: Fine Tip: Use the inverted method for better control over steeping time French Press Flavour: Yields a full-bodied, rich coffee Grind size: Coarse Tip: Steep for 4 minutes before pressing the plunger slowly Each method brings out different aspects of The Espresso Club beans' flavour profile, allowing you to tailor your coffee experience to your taste preferences. Finding your perfect brew: Your choice of brewing method depends on your desired coffee strength and flavour:Espresso machine: For a concentrated, crema-rich shot. Moka Pot: For a robust, espresso-like brew without the machine.Aeropress: For versatility and portability.French Press: For a hearty, full-bodied cup.Pour-Over: For clarity and subtle flavour notes. No matter your equipment, our beans are crafted to deliver a satisfying cup. Where to Buy You can find The Espresso Club blends at your local Woolworths or order directly from our website, straight to your door.
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