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Nespresso Intensity Levels Explained: Find the Coffee That Fits Your Taste
Coffee is more than just a drink; it’s an experience. Whether you’re starting your day or winding down in the afternoon, the perfect cup can make all the difference. But what makes one cup of coffee more satisfying than another? For many, it comes down to intensity—that balance of roast, body, and richness that defines every sip.
We've made it easier than ever to explore coffee intensity levels with our carefully curated range of coffee capsules, from light and delicate blends to bold and robust creations. In this guide, we’ll help you decode these intensity levels so you can find the perfect match for your taste.
What Does Coffee Intensity Mean?
Coffee intensity refers to a combination of factors that influence the depth of flavour, body, and overall robustness of a cup. While many assume that a higher coffee intensity level means more caffeine, this isn’t always the case. Intensity is determined by the roast level, the concentration of coffee solids, and the overall strength of flavour.
At Nespresso, we classify coffee intensity levels on a scale from 1 to 13 to help you easily identify the best match for your taste preferences.
Understanding Nespresso’s Coffee Intensity Levels
Our coffee intensity scale is divided into three ranges:
Mild Coffee (Level 1-4)
Lightly roasted with delicate, floral, or fruity notes. Perfect for those who prefer a smoother and more subtle cup
Balanced Coffee (Level 5-7)
A versatile middle ground with well-rounded flavours, making it ideal for everyday coffee lovers
Bold Coffee (Level 8-13)
Darker roasts with rich, full-bodied notes, ideal for those who enjoy a more intense coffee experience
Matching Coffee Intensity to Your Palate
Finding your ideal coffee intensity starts with understanding your personal preferences:
• If you enjoy light blends with floral, nutty, or citrusy notes, go for mild coffee. Try our Delicate & Mild Coffee Collection from Vertuo or the Original range’s Coffee Sommelier Pack.
• For those who appreciate a middle ground, balanced coffee offers smooth and well-rounded flavours. Our Original Coffee Afficionado Pack and Vertuo Trio Starter Pack gives you the perfect blends for a balanced cup filled with malty cereal & rich caramel notes.
• If you’re looking for deep, full-bodied, and roasted flavours or prefer a stronger, more concentrated taste, bold coffees like those in our Vertuo Discovery Intense Selection or Original’s Coffee Connoisseur Pack deliver a rich and powerful flavour.
If you’re still unsure, take our Nespresso coffee quiz to find your ideal match.
Pairing Coffee Intensity with Brewing Style and Time of Day
Deciding the best coffee intensity level for you may also depend on how and when you drink your coffee:
• Mild coffee made as a cappuccino or latte is perfect for a light start to the day or a relaxed afternoon break. If you’d like to try something a little different to kick off your mornings/afternoon, check out our new limited edition White Chocolate & Strawberry capsule from the Vertuo range. The classic blend of strawberry flavours with white chocolate, complemented by rich dairy notes of milk, butter, and cream, offer an indulgent drinking experience regardless of the time of day.
• Balanced coffee brewed as a lungo or an iced coffee suits any time of the day, providing a smooth and versatile option.
• Bold coffee served as a ristretto or espresso delivers a strong energy boost or an after-dinner treat. Looking for a bold coffee with a powerful kick? Enjoy Original’s Arpeggio Extra or Vertuo’s Stormio Go for a rich, intense flavour. These capsules offer a glimpse into the world of bold coffees.
Tips for Exploring and Customising Your Coffee Experience
Enjoying coffee is all about exploration and personalisation. If you’re new to different intensity levels, start by trying a variety of blends to discover new favourites. Adding milk or plant-based alternatives can enhance the flavour of both mild and bold coffee, creating a smoother, creamier texture. To further refine your experience, explore our coffee accessories for extra convenience when brewing and storing your coffee.
Find Your Perfect Intensity and Savour Every Sip
Choosing the right coffee intensity isn’t just about picking a drink—it’s about discovering a flavour that complements your mood, time of day, and personal preferences. Whether you enjoy a mellow start with mild coffee or crave the rich, bold flavour of intense coffee, Nespresso offers a world of possibilities to explore.
Ready to embark on your coffee journey? Discover our Vertuo and Original range of coffee capsules today and find the perfect coffee intensity level to match your taste. Because with the right cup, every moment becomes extraordinary.
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