Espresso (Monmouth Coffee Company)

Monmouth Coffee Company’s Espresso is a seasonal espresso blend, which means that its composition changes throughout the year along with the changes in availability of coffee beans used in it.

The main note present regardless of what time of year you try it is almonds. The dominance of that note will vary, I found it the strongest in the blends available around May-June and September-October, but it is always there. Other noticeable notes are dark cocoa and a hint of caramel.

Personally, I like to enjoy it on Saturdays in Monmouth Street (they are closed on Sundays). Other days, I will get to the bag of Monmouth Espresso I keep at hand, purge and clean the grinder, and try to do this classic blend justice.

When it comes to grinding, this blend requires care and attention. Setting 3 will result in brewing time just under 30 seconds with light tamping. If you want to go for a finger grind (settings 2 or 1) be delicate when tamping, the harder you tamp, the longer the extraction time will be. When brewed with care, there is no unpleasant "burnt" espresso aftertaste, but some of the darkness and almond notes do linger in your mouth for a while though not too long.

Mixed with milk, Monmouth Espresso will result in a drink tasting of dark chocolate and almonds. Perfect for autumn and winter.

This blend is one of the quintessential London flavours. A true classic like no other. Modern, but classy.

WHERE TO BUY

You can buy Monmouth Espresso from the Monmouth Coffee Company's shop in Monmouth Street in London (other locations include Borough Market and Spa Terminus) or you can order it online or buy from one of their shops.

EQUIPMENT

• Coffee grinder: Sage (Breville) Smart Grinder Pro

• Espresso machine: Sage (Breville) Bambino Plus