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If you’re reading this post, you more than likely already using pods. But do you know the best Nespresso pods for different types of drinks, roasts, intensity, variety packs? Or the best bargains?
We’ll describe all of the different coffee pods in this article, and give you a description of each kind.
Best Nespresso pods For Cappuccinos – Nespresso Vertuoline made for Double Cappuccino
Best For Latte’s – OriginalLine, Envivo Lungo, Dark Roast Espresso Coffee Pods
Best For Americano’s – OriginalLine, Ristretto Intenso, Dark Roast Coffee
Best Light Roast – Nespresso Capsules VertuoLine, Voltesso
Best Medium Roast – OriginalLine, Vivalto Lungo, Medium Roast Coffee
Best Dark Roast – VertuoLine, Stormio, Dark Roast Coffee
Best Decaf – OriginalLine , Vivalto Lungo Decaffeinato, Medium Roast Coffee
Most Affordable – Bestpresso Coffee for Nespresso Original Machine 120 pods
Best Variety Pack – Nespresso Capsules OriginalLine, Ispirazione Espresso Variety Pack, Medium Roast
Best For Virtuo – Nespresso Capsules VertuoLine, Espresso Variety Pack
All 49 Best Nespresso Pods
The below list is the different flavors, roasts, and intensity options you can buy for the original line and Virtuo line machines, including the master and gourmet selections.
Original Line Pods
What are the different types of Nespresso capsules?
Each line has its own selection of coffee pods. The Original line has 6 different categories of pods to choose from. These categories are Intenso, Lungo, Espresso, Decaffeinato, Master Origin, and Crafted for Milk.
There are also many third-party options that are compatible with the Orignal line machines.
The Orignal line categories all have different flavors, strengths, and purposes. Here is a breakdown of each:
Ispirazione Italiana
Ristretto Decaffeinato – The Ristretto Decaffeinato blend has an intensity level of 10. This capsule is described as having a powerful and contrasting flavor.
Roma – The Roma blend has an intensity level of 8. This capsule is described as having a full and balanced flavor.
Kazaar – The Kazaar blend has an intensity level of 12. This capsule is described as having an exceptionally intense and syrupy flavor.
Arpeggio Decaffeinato – The Arpeggio Decaffeinato blend has an intensity level of 9. This capsule is described as having a rich and creamy flavor.
Espresso & Lungo
Linizio Lungo – The Linizio Lungo has an intensity of 4. This capsule is described as having a round and smooth flavor.
Envivo Lungo – The Envivo Lungo has an intensity of 8. This capsule is described as having a potent and caramelized flavor.
Fortissio Lungo – The Fortissio Lungo has an intensity of 8. This capsule is described as having a rich and full-bodied flavor.
Capriccio – The Capriccio has an intensity of 5. This capsule is described as having a rich and distinctive flavor.
Vivalto Lungo – The Vivalto Lungo has an intensity of 4. This capsule is described as having a complex and balanced flavor.
Vivalto Lungo Decaffeinato – The Vivalto Lungo Decaffeinato has an intensity of 4. This capsule also has a complex and balanced flavor but is decaffeinated.
Livanto – The Livanto has an intensity of 6. This capsule is described as having a round and balanced flavor.
Master Origins
India – The India blend has an intensity of 11 and is described as having a woody and spicy flavor.
Indonesia – The Indonesia blend has an intensity of 8 and is described as having a tobacco leaf and woody flavor.
Nicaragua – The Nicaragua blend has an intensity of 5 and is described as having a smooth honey and sweet caramel flavor.
Ethiopia – The Ethiopia blend has an intensity of 4 and is described as having a fruit jam and orange blossom flavor.
Columbia – The Columbia blend has an intensity of 6 and is described as having a winey and red fruit flavor.
BARISTA CREATIONS
Chiaro – The Chiaro blend is known for its sweet biscuit flavor.
Scuro – The Scuro blend is described as having a roasted, yet balanced flavor.
Corto – The Corto blend is described as having a spicy flavor.
Vanilla Eclair – The Vanilla Eclair blend is described as having a vanilla flavor.
Caramel Creme Brulee – The caramel creme brulee blend is described as having a caramel flavor.
Cocoa Truffle – The Cocoa Truffle blend is described as having a chocolate flavor.
VertuoLine Pods
The VertuoLine also has its own set of coffee pods, and these pods are even more customizable.
These pods come in 3 different sizes so you can decide if you want a small, medium, or large cup of espresso.
As previously stated, each pod has its own barcode that gives the machine specific instructions on how to brew it.
The VertuoLine also increased the amount of crema in each pod, can brew both espresso and coffee pods.
Here is the list of VertuLine coffee pods and flavors:
Espresso & Double Espresso
Double Espresso Scuro – The Double Espresso Scuro blend has an intensity of 8 and is described as having a dark and bold flavor.
Double Espresso Chiaro – The Double Espresso Chiaro blend has an intensity of 6 and is described as having a dense and wild flavor.
Diavolitto – The Diavolitto blend has an intensity of 11 and is described as having a highly intense and powerful flavor.
Altissio – The Altissio blend has an intensity of 9 and is described as having a full-bodied and creamy flavor.
Decaffeinato Intenso – The Decaffeinato Intenso blend has an intensity of 7 and is described as having a dense and harmonious flavor.
Voltesso – The Voltesso blend has an intensity of 4 and is described as having a light and sweet flavor.
Gran Lungo
Fortado – The Fortado blend has an intensity of 8 and is described as having an intense and full-bodied flavor.
Arondio – The Arondio blend has an intensity of 6 and is described as having cereal and a mild flavor.
Alforazio – The Alforazio blend has an intensity of 4 and is described as having a floral and delicate flavor.
Decaffeinato Ontuoso – The Decaffeinato Ontuoso blend has an intensity of 4 and is described as having a malty and unctuous flavor.
Mug & Alto
Intenso XL – The Intenso XL blend has an intensity of 7 and is described as having a smooth and strong flavor.
Dolce XL – The Dolce XL blend has an intensity of 4 and is described as having a smooth and round flavor.
Intenso – The Intenso blend has an intensity of 9 and is described as having a deep and dense flavor.
Stormio – The Stormio blend has an intensity of 8 and is described as having a rich and strong flavor.
Odacio – The Odacio blend has an intensity of 7 and is described as having a bold and lively flavor.
Melozio – The Melozio blend has an intensity of 6 and is described as having a smooth and balanced flavor.
Elvazio – The Elvazio blend has an intensity of 4 and is described as having a delicate and fruity flavor.
Giornio – The Giornio blend has an intensity of 4 and is described as having a floral and velvety flavor.
Solelio – The Solelio blend has an intensity of 2 and is described as having a fruity and light-bodied flavor.
Decaffeinato – The Decaffeinato blend has an intensity of 6 and is described as having a round and malty flavor.
Half Caffeinato – The Half Caffeinato blend has an intensity of 5 and is described as having a sweet and velvety flavor.
Master Origin
Mexico – The Mexico blend has an intensity of 7 and is described as having an intense and spicy flavor.
Columbia – The Columbia blend has an intensity of 5 and is described as having an Arabica flavor.
Barista Creations
Bianco Leggero – The Bianco Leggero blend is described as having a sweet biscuit flavor.
Bianco Forte – The Bianco Forte blend is described as having a dark roasted, yet balanced flavor.
Hazelino Muffin – The Hazelino Muffin blend is described as having a hazelnut flavor.
Caramel Cookie – The Caramel Cookie blend is described as having a caramel flavor.
Vanilla Custard Pie – The Vanilla Custard Pie blend is described as having a vanilla flavor.
What is a Nespresso Coffee Machine
So what exactly is Nespresso?
Nespresso is a coffee company that has successfully created an at-home espresso maker that is easy to use and brews high-quality espresso while maintaining a strong focus on sustainability.
But how does the Nespresso machine work and what makes it special?
Well, if you’ve ever owned an espresso machine or know someone who has, you’ll know that they are pretty complicated to use.
The Nespresso machine gives you a hot cup of espresso in seconds with the push of a button.
There is nothing complicated about this coffee maker. These machines are built to work efficiently with very little maintenance.
Even better, this simplicity does not take away from quality.
Nespresso has perfected their machine’s ability to make one of the best espresso drinks out there.
The machine combines rotational speed and water flow to extract every ounce of flavor from the coffee pod.
Even the biggest espresso snob can’t deny the exceptional taste Nespresso produces.
What are the different types of Nespresso machines
There are two different types of Nespresso machines: the Original line and the VertuoLine. These two lines differ in the way they extract the coffee from the pod, the types of pod used in each, and some features of the machine itself.
How does Each Machine Work
The Original line uses pressure-based extraction, which is typical in most coffee pod machines. The VertuoLine uses a more advanced method of combining rotational speed and water flow to extract more flavor from the coffee pod.
Each VertuoLine coffee pod has a barcode on the outside of the container that tells the machine how to specifically brew it.
This includes water flow, volume, temperature, infusion time, and capsule rotation speed.
- Related article – Coffee machines with built-in grinders
- Related article – 13 best espresso cups
Machine Features
The features of each line differ slightly. The Original line offers some machines that include milk frothers, where the VertuLine does not offer this feature on any of their machines. You do have the option of buying the Aeroccino milk frother separately.
The Original line offers more variety and options for machine style and price. There are 12 models in the Original line making it more versatile than the VertuoLine’s 3 model options.
Nespresso Intensity Scale
As you may have noticed on the pod descriptions above, each Nespresso pod is ranked for intensity with a number.
Nespresso defines intensity based on the degree of roasting, the bitterness, and the blend’s body.
The intensity does not describe the amount of caffeine in each capsule.
The intensity ratings go from 1-13, with 1 being lowest in intensity and 13 being highest. Nespresso considers coffee with a rating between 1 and 6 to be less intense. A rating between 8 and 13 is considered intense.
What Do The Different Colors Of Nespresso Pods Mean
This roast goes from stronger to weaker as follows: black, purple, light brown, and green. The green one is not decaf; it is rated as 5 out of 10 on the strength scale of regular coffee. All these drinks are supposed to be espressos of course varying in strength.
Each color represents a different flavor element. this is due to factors like the type of coffee bean used, the roast’s intensity, added flavors like caramel, vanilla, chocolate, or nuts.
Which Pods Have The Most Caffeine.
The caffeine content can be found on the packaging of your Nespresso pods. Most capsules contain between 55 and 65 mg of caffeine.
The Lungo blends have slightly more caffeine and range between 77 and 85 mg. The capsule with the highest caffeine amount is the Kazaar blend with about 125 mg of caffeine per capsule.
How to Use Nespresso Pods
To use a Nespresso pod, you will need a Nespresso machine. Nespresso pods are not compatible with other coffee makers.
To start, make sure you have enough water in the water tank before inserting your pod. This will ensure you do not burn your coffee grounds. Filtered water is best. Turn on the machine and allow the Nespresso to heat.
Then simply place your cup underneath, place the pod in the capsule container, and select the correct size option for brewing. Your machine will do the rest!
What Are They Made Of
Nespresso pods are made of aluminum, one of the best materials to keep the coffee fresh. Aluminum can also be recycled for an unlimited amount of time, which is important for keeping waste down.
Can You Use Them More Than Once
One Nespresso pod gets you one shot of espresso. If you want a double shot, you’ll need to use 2 pods.
This doesn’t stop people from using them twice to save money and reduce waste, but the second use will deliver a much weaker watered-down shot compared to the first.
If you are okay with this, then it is perfectly fine for you to do it.
Just as long as you don’t anger the coffee gods in doing so.
What Flavors Do They Come In
The capsules also come in various flavors, including chocolate, sweet porridge, light, intense roast, and wood flavors.
Along with different varieties of roasts
Benefits of Nespresso Pods
There is a reason why people buy Nespresso machines and solely use Nespresso pods. Nespresso has perfected espresso with a premium taste that you think you’d only find in a fancy coffee shop.
Along with taste comes aroma. As your coffee brews and you slowly sip your espresso, the strong aroma will make your experience even more enjoyable.
Nespresso machines brew very quickly, with an average brew speed of about 25-35 seconds. There is no time wasted, and you will have your coffee in hand in no time.
Compared to other espresso makers, the Nespresso machine is straightforward to use. You don’t have to be in the “know-how” of espresso making to use this machine.
You only need to push a couple of buttons, and the machine knows how to take care of the rest.
You can also control the dosage. Nespresso pods come in different sizes and strengths, making it easy to customize your perfect cup.
Disadvantages of Nespresso Pods
The Nespresso machine isn’t for everyone, and there are some disadvantages to having a Nespresso machine.
The main disadvantage is you have to have a Nespresso machine to use the Nespresso pods.
So if you fall in love with one of their excellent flavors, you’re stuck buying a machine to make that same cup of joe yourself.
Nespresso pods do cost more than ground coffee. But if you are buying a Nespresso machine to limit your visit to the coffee shop, you might actually save money in the long run.
Nespresso pods are cheaper than buying a coffee at a shop, and you won’t be using any gas to get there.
Buying Nespresso pods isn’t as accessible as buying ground coffee. You can find a bag of coffee at just about any grocery store. Nespresso pods might be a bit harder to find, especially if you need coffee now.
How Should You Store Them
Nespresso has many great options you can buy to organize and store your coffee pods neatly. They have countertop displays as well as drawer organizers if you’d rather have them hidden away.
How Long Do They Stay Fresh
The Nespresso pods are built to stay fresh. The aluminum capsule keeps the coffee sealed and prevents oxidation from happening, which means the coffee quality can last for a while.
Nespresso guarantees freshness for up to a year after purchasing. There is an expiration date, which can be found on the coffee pod box.
The expiration date is for freshness. You can consume the coffee pods after the expiration date, but they probably won’t taste good.
Are They Environmentally friendly
Nespresso pods are environmentally friendly and they can be recycled.
The outer packaging is 100% recyclable, and the grinds can be used as fertilizer, t raise the PH in your garden soil, or as compost.
Nespresso Pods Recycling Program
Nespresso has its own recycling program and will send you recycling bags for free when requested.
There are tons of Nespresso recycling dropoffs and you can likely find one close to where you live.
Nespresso claims that 90% of their users have recycling centers nearby. You can also return them by mail in the recycling bag.
One Nespresso pod gets you one shot of espresso. If you want a double shot, you’ll need to use 2 pods.
This doesn’t stop people from using them twice to save money, but the second use will deliver a much weaker watered down shot compared to the first.
If you are okay with this, then it is perfectly fine for you to do it.
I hope you don’t anger the coffee gods in doing so.
Reusable Nespresso Pods
Pods by SealPod provide access to the coffee experience that has never been possible before. You can choose which beans to grind yourself or stick with pods that come in disposable varieties.
Make sure this fits by entering your model number. Click on this link and give the page a second to load, and you’ll see a box appear about halfway down the page where you can enter your Nespresso machines model number.
A reusable, refillable Nespresso pod is compatible with most machines of the Nespresso OriginalLine.
These Sealpod Lids enclose the espresso capsule and create pressure, similar to your disposable Nespresso capsules, so you get a thick, creamy crema each time.You can still enjoy the convenience of your Nespresso machine with these environmentally-friendly stainless steel capsules.
the food-grade stickers are recyclable as well. The Sealpod refillable capsules do not absorb flavors or colors of different espresso blends and are user-safe, made from stainless steel.
The lids are made of either foil or paper. The patented design is perfectly safe to use with your Nespresso machine when used as directed.
Tested on Nespresso OriginalLine machines: Citiz, Citiz-Milk, Concept, Essenza, Essenza Krups, Gran Maestria, Inissia, KitchenAid, Latissima+, Latissima, Le Cube, Maestria, Pixie, U, and Umilk.
The Easiest Way To Buy Nespresso Pods
The easiest way to buy Nespresso pods is to order them through amazon.
You can set up automatic shipments, so your coffee delivery arrives at the same time each month.
That way, you’re not finding yourself running out to a major chain store since you can’t find them at most convenience or grocery stores.
Can You Buy Them At Stores
Some stores do sell them if you prefer to do your shopping in person instead of online.
- Walmart
- Target
- Bestbuy
- Macy’s
Nespresso also has smaller stores called boutiques or Kiosks where you can restock, but they are normally located in malls or anchor stores that aren’t as convenient to get to.
Are There Cheaper Alternatives
There are third-party alternatives you can buy that can be cheaper than buying from Nespresso. Brands like Gourmesso and Jones Brother Coffee offer compatible coffee pods at a lower price.
All of these brands are also available through Amazon and have automatic shipping options.
Do Starbucks Pods Work In Nespresso Machines
If you love Starbucks’ taste but want the convenience of Nespresso pods, you will be happy to know that Starbucks makes pods compatible with Nespresso machines.
Can You Use Aldi Pods In A Nespresso
Yo can use Aldi pods in a Nespresso but it seems like you can’t find them at all Aldi stores.
I know they sell them in the midwest, but I have not confirmed if you will find them on either the east or west coast.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Nespresso Coffee
The Nespresso machine is already a top-of-the-line coffee maker, but there are some tips and tricks to consider to make your experience with Nespresso even better!
Try priming your Nespresso before brewing your first cup of coffee. To do this, simply place your cup under the machine as usual and turn on the machine without putting a pod in place. This heats the machine and runs a cycle with just water.
Priming your machine is beneficial because it will ensure maximum heat for your coffee and cleanse the pot with a round of water, so your espresso tastes extra pure.
You might also want to consider using filtered water. This will enhance the taste of your espresso and keep your pot cleaner.
Speaking of a clean pot, it’s always a good idea to clean your coffee pot often. The Nespresso machine is very low-maintenance, but that doesn’t mean you should skip cleaning altogether. A clean pot means your machine will last longer.
Clean all removable parts with hot water after every use. This will remove any stagnant water, spilled coffee grounds, or overall grime that might build up after use.
Nespresso has a wide variety of coffee pods, and some machines are compatible with third-party options as well. Play around with different flavors, strengths, and styles to find your perfect pod!
Final Thoughts
If you are an avid espresso drinker, the Nespresso machine won’t let you down. Its simple design and unique espresso-brewing process truly make this a great buy.
There are tons of Nespresso pod options to satisfy each individual’s taste and desired strength.