Been using a Breville barista almost daily for 6 months. Been grinding fresh, full-city roast Costa Rica Terrazo beans for every cup. Really happy with the full, balanced flavor, mouth-feel, aroma, aftertaste, etc. The great reviews of the San Marcos Espresso bean intrigued me, so I thought I'd give it a try. The dominant characteristic to both my wife & me is it's distinct peppery taste. There really is no unpleasant aftertaste at all, however. If one is used to a bit of a bite in their espresso, this likely is the bean for you. However, it's a bit disappointing to us. That being said (actually, written!) I will continue to make espresso/cappuccino for myself until the bag is empty, as it's not distasteful - to my taste buds, however, it's just does not have the fully pleasant characteristics we've come to be used to with the Costa Rica Terrazo beans. Though our experience with the espresso beans was not as expected, we remain confident that San Marco Coffee is of high quality, & we will continue to purchase the few other varieties we enjoy so much in our daily coffee brew.

I have used San Marco espresso whole bean coffee for over 15 years. No other brand I have tried and compared over the years offers the same quality and consistency, much less pricing, as does San Marco(or San Giorgio as it was previously branded). And at a rate of 4# per month for personal consumption, only, I should know.

Used this for over a year now for espresso plus pour-overs and will continue using it as it's 'the best I've found'. For espresso, I grind with a Vario Baratza and produce shots with a Breville BES900XL/B Dual Boiler Espresso machine at 9 bar. For the pour-over, I use a combination of 1:2 ratio San Marco to Starbucks French Roast. Both, absolutely outstanding!!

We use this esspresso blend to make straight espressos or Lattes using a Rncilio Silvia and a Rancilio grinder. The coffee is consistently good with balanced acidity, great aroma and amazing smoothness. We have tried Illy, Lavazza etc blends but nothing compares to this. best bang for your buck.

It is espresso, only one way to use it. Straight up w/o sugar or other additives.