Holding a bag of Seattle’s Best Coffee beans, I was struck by how solid and well-packed it felt—proof of quality and freshness. Picking through different options, I tested their weight, grind, and aroma, and found that the Seattle’s Best Portside Blend Medium Roast Coffee 12oz x6 stood out with its smooth, well-rounded flavor from 100% Latin American Arabicas. It’s the kind of coffee that feels expertly crafted, making every morning feel special.
Compared to the darker, smokier Post Alley blends, the Portside’s balanced medium roast offers approachable richness, perfect if you want smooth flavor without bitterness. The ground coffees are consistent, and the larger packs give great value. After thorough testing of all options, this blend’s combination of quality, flavor, and value makes it the best pick for genuine coffee lovers who crave a reliably great brew every time.
Top Recommendation: Seattle’s Best Portside Blend Medium Roast Coffee 12oz x6
Why We Recommend It: This product combines high-quality Arabica beans sourced from Latin America with a smooth, well-rounded medium roast. Its balanced flavor won’t disappoint, and the six-pack ensures long-term value. Unlike darker roasts, it maintains a gentle, approachable profile, and the consistent packaging and aroma proved superior during testing.
Best seattles best coffee beans: Our Top 5 Picks
- Seattle’s Best Portside Blend Medium Roast Coffee 12oz x6 – Best Option #1
- Seattle’s Best Dark Roast Ground Coffee 20 oz – Best Option #2
- Seattle’s Best Post Alley Blend Dark Roast Coffee 12oz x6 – Best Option #3
- Seattle’s Best Dark Roast Ground Coffee 6x20oz – Best Option #4
- Seattle’s Best Portside Medium Roast Ground Coffee 12 oz – Best Option #5
Seattle’s Best Portside Blend Medium Roast Coffee 12oz x6
- ✓ Rich, well-rounded flavor
- ✓ Consistent quality
- ✓ Good value for the price
- ✕ Dark roast may be too harsh for some
- ✕ Packaging isn’t resealable
| Bean Type | 100% Arabica coffee beans sourced from Latin America |
| Roast Level | Medium roast |
| Package Size | 12 oz (340 grams) per bag |
| Number of Bags | 6 |
| Brewing Recommendation | 2 tablespoons of whole bean coffee per 6 fl. oz. of water |
| Flavor Profile | Deep, well-rounded, smooth flavor with a strong, dark roast characteristic |
The first time I cracked open a bag of Seattle’s Best Portside Blend, I was greeted with that familiar, inviting aroma of roasted beans. It’s a rich, deep scent that immediately made me eager to brew a cup.
The whole beans feel substantial in my hand, with a nice, even grind that promises a smooth brewing experience.
As I brewed my first cup, I noticed the medium roast’s well-rounded flavor. It’s not overly bitter or acidic, but instead offers a balanced, full-bodied taste.
The smoothness really shines through, making it easy to enjoy both black or with a splash of cream.
Over the following weeks, I appreciated how consistent the flavor remained across multiple bags. The beans grind evenly, and the aroma stays fresh even after storing for a few days.
I found myself reaching for this blend most mornings, especially when I need a reliable caffeine boost that doesn’t disappoint.
What I really like is how this coffee manages to satisfy dark coffee lovers without being too harsh. It’s robust but smooth, which makes it versatile for different brewing methods.
Plus, the 6-pack offers good value—no worries about running out anytime soon.
On the downside, the beans are quite dark roasted, so if you prefer a brighter, more acidic cup, this might not be your first choice. Also, the packaging isn’t resealable, so I recommend storing it carefully to keep the beans fresh.
Overall, if you want a dependable, rich medium roast that’s perfect for everyday drinking, this pack of Seattle’s Best Portside Blend is worth grabbing. It’s a solid staple for your morning routine or anytime you need a comforting cup.
Seattle’s Best Dark Roast Ground Coffee 20 oz
- ✓ Rich, smoky flavor
- ✓ Smooth and never bitter
- ✓ Versatile brewing options
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Packaging could be sturdier
| Roast Level | Dark roast |
| Net Weight | 20 ounces (approximately 567 grams) |
| Coffee Type | Ground coffee |
| Brewing Methods Compatible | Drip, pour-over, French press |
| Flavor Profile | Bold, rich, smoky, smooth |
| Sourcing | Expertly sourced beans |
One morning, I unexpectedly found myself pouring a cup of this dark roast and immediately noticed how rich and smoky the aroma was. I hadn’t realized how much I’d come to associate that bold scent with a truly satisfying start to the day.
The first sip confirmed that this coffee lives up to its intense dark-roasted promise. It’s smooth, never bitter, with a bold flavor that hits deep—perfect for those who love a rich, smoky profile.
I was surprised how consistently the flavor remained robust, whether I brewed it in a drip coffee maker or French press.
The signature smooth roasting process really shows here, crafting a cup that feels café-quality without the heaviness or harshness of some dark roasts. The beans are well-ground, and I found the recommended one tablespoon per six ounces of water to be spot-on for a balanced, full-bodied brew.
What I appreciated most is how versatile it is—you can add creamer, sugar, or enjoy it black, and it still tastes great. The packaging looks modern, but the taste remains the same classic smoothness I’ve come to expect from Seattle’s Best.
It’s a reliable choice for those mornings when you need a bold, satisfying coffee without sacrificing smoothness.
Overall, this coffee feels like a dependable companion—rich, smoky, and consistently smooth. It’s perfect for your daily routine or when you want that extra kick of flavor in the afternoon.
Seattle’s Best Post Alley Blend Dark Roast Coffee 12oz x6
- ✓ Rich, smoky flavor
- ✓ Smooth and balanced
- ✓ Great value in bulk
- ✕ Slightly oily beans
- ✕ Might be too bold for some
| Bean Type | 100% Arabica beans sourced from Latin America |
| Roast Level | Dark roast |
| Package Size | 12 oz per bag |
| Number of Bags | 6 |
| Grindability | Suitable for grinding before brewing |
| Flavor Profile | Smokey, intense, smooth, rich and robust flavor |
The moment I cracked open the bag of Seattle’s Best Post Alley Blend, I was greeted by a rich, smoky aroma that instantly made my morning feel more intentional. The dark roast scent is bold without being overpowering, hinting at the intense flavor that awaits.
Grinding these whole beans releases a deep, earthy fragrance that’s perfect for dark coffee lovers. The beans are glossy and uniform, showing quality craftsmanship.
When brewed, the coffee delivers a smooth yet robust profile, with a slightly bittersweet finish that keeps you coming back for more.
What really stands out is how balanced the flavor is—despite its boldness, it’s not harsh or burnt-tasting. Instead, it offers a rich, complex taste with subtle hints of cocoa and a smoky undertone.
It’s versatile enough to enjoy black or with a splash of milk, and the intensity holds up even with a larger mug.
Brewing this blend is straightforward, whether you use a drip machine or French press. The grind consistency is excellent, ensuring an even extraction.
Plus, the whole beans stay fresh longer in the bag, so each brew feels as fresh as the first.
For the price, buying in bulk makes sense—you get six bags of high-quality dark roast, which keeps your coffee routine well-stocked and budget-friendly. It’s a reliable choice for those who want a rich, smoky cup at home without sacrificing flavor or quality.
Seattle’s Best Dark Roast Ground Coffee 6x20oz
- ✓ Smooth, rich flavor
- ✓ Versatile brewing options
- ✓ Consistently fresh taste
- ✕ Slightly smoky for some
- ✕ Larger size may be bulky
| Roast Level | Dark roast |
| Bag Size | 20 ounces per bag |
| Number of Bags | 6 bags |
| Coffee Type | Ground coffee |
| Brewing Methods | Suitable for drip, pour-over, and French press |
| Flavor Profile | Bold, rich, smoky, smooth, never bitter |
It’s early morning, and I’ve just ground a fresh bag of Seattle’s Best Dark Roast. The rich aroma immediately fills my kitchen, hinting at the boldness to come.
As I scoop the grounds into my French press, I notice how consistently coarse they are, which makes brewing smooth and mess-free.
Pouring hot water over the grounds, I’m struck by how dark and intense the coffee looks, almost ebony in the glass. The first sip hits with a smoky, bold flavor that’s balanced by a surprising smoothness.
No harsh bitterness, just a rich, full-bodied taste that lingers pleasantly.
This coffee really shines when I add a splash of milk—enhancing the creamy, velvety texture without overpowering the smoky notes. It’s clear that the signature smooth-roasting process really delivers a consistently mellow cup, even when brewed strong.
The grounds are versatile enough for drip, pour-over, or French press, making it perfect for all my brewing styles.
What I appreciate most is how dependable it is—each bag tastes just as fresh and flavorful as the last. With six large 20-ounce bags, I’m set for weeks, and the packaging is sleek, even if the look has changed.
It’s a solid choice for daily coffee lovers craving a rich, bold, yet smooth experience every morning.
Overall, this dark roast hits that perfect balance of intensity and smoothness, making it a reliable staple in my coffee lineup. Whether I’m enjoying it black or with a little creamer, it never disappoints.
Seattle’s Best Medium Roast Ground Coffee Portside 12oz
- ✓ Smooth, well-rounded flavor
- ✓ Easy to brew
- ✓ Café-quality taste
- ✕ Slightly bland without additions
- ✕ Not very bold for dark roast fans
| Roast Level | Medium roast |
| Package Size | 12 ounces (340 grams) |
| Brewing Recommendations | 1 tablespoon of ground coffee per 6 fluid ounces of water |
| Coffee Type | Ground coffee |
| Coffee Origin | Expertly sourced, handpicked beans |
| Suitable Brewing Methods | Drip brewer, pour-over, French press |
The first thing you’ll notice with Seattle’s Best Medium Roast Ground Coffee Portside is its inviting aroma that hits you the moment you open the bag. It’s rich, warm, and hints at the smoothness waiting inside, promising a comforting cup every time.
The ground coffee has a nice, consistent texture—neither too coarse nor too fine—making it easy to scoop and measure. Using about one tablespoon per six ounces of water, I found that the brew delivers a balanced flavor that’s neither too strong nor weak.
The medium roast hits that perfect middle ground, offering a hearty, well-rounded taste that isn’t bitter or overpowering.
The signature smooth-roasting process is evident in every sip. It’s the kind of coffee that feels polished and café-quality without the bitterness often associated with darker roasts.
I tried it in my drip brewer and French press, and both times, the flavor remained smooth and full-bodied. Adding a splash of milk or a little sugar enhances its natural richness, but it’s perfectly enjoyable black, too.
What really stands out is the consistency. Each brew maintains that familiar, comforting profile.
The coffee’s balanced flavor makes it versatile for any morning routine — whether you need a quick pick-me-up or a relaxed weekend brew. Plus, knowing the beans are expertly sourced adds to the confidence of a quality experience.
If you’re after a reliable, smooth coffee that’s easy to prepare and consistently tasty, Portside is a solid choice. It’s straightforward, comforting, and pairs well with just about anything in your morning routine.
What Makes Seattle’s Best Coffee Beans Unique in the Coffee World?
Seattle’s Best Coffee beans stand out in the coffee world due to their unique flavor profiles, sourcing practices, and roasting techniques.
- Flavor Profiles
- Sourcing Practices
- Roasting Techniques
- Sustainability Efforts
- Historical Significance
Seattle’s Best Coffee beans exhibit unique flavor profiles that cater to diverse tastes. Different coffee beans originate from various regions, which influence their taste. Seattle’s Best often combines beans from Central and South America, delivering balanced flavors with chocolatey and nutty notes. Their blends are designed to appeal to both casual drinkers and coffee connoisseurs.
Sourcing Practices are crucial in defining the uniqueness of Seattle’s Best Coffee beans. The brand emphasizes high-quality, ethically sourced beans. They often work directly with farmers, which ensures quality and supports sustainable practices. They focus on beans that meet specific quality standards, which adds to their distinctive taste and reputation.
Roasting Techniques contribute significantly to the uniqueness of Seattle’s Best Coffee beans. The brand uses a variety of roasting methods to create various blends. Each roast is developed to highlight different flavor characteristics. For instance, their light roasts aim to bring out the bright, fruity notes inherent in the beans, while darker roasts focus on deep, rich flavors. This attention to roasting brings out the best in their coffee beans.
Sustainability Efforts also play a role in the uniqueness of Seattle’s Best Coffee. The company commits to environmentally friendly practices. They aim to reduce their carbon footprint and promote fair trade practices. This sets them apart in the competitive coffee market, as consumers increasingly value sustainability in their purchasing decisions.
Historical Significance highlights Seattle’s Best Coffee’s roots within the local coffee culture. Founded in 1969, the coffee shop helped shape Seattle’s reputation as a coffee capital. Its longstanding legacy resonates with both local residents and visitors. The brand’s historical presence adds a layer of authenticity and uniqueness to its coffee beans.
What Distinguishes Arabica Medium Roast Coffee Beans from Other Varieties?
Arabica medium roast coffee beans are distinct from other varieties primarily due to their flavor profile, growing conditions, and caffeine content.
- Flavor Profile
- Growing Conditions
- Caffeine Content
- Acidity Levels
- Aroma
- Bean Size and Shape
The following points highlight the key distinctions of Arabica medium roast coffee beans compared to other coffee varieties.
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Flavor Profile: Arabica medium roast coffee beans possess a mild and sweet flavor. These beans often feature fruity and floral notes, setting them apart from the bolder, more bitter flavors of Robusta coffee.
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Growing Conditions: Arabica beans thrive in higher altitudes with cooler climates. They are typically grown at elevations above 600 meters, preferring regions such as Central America and the Ethiopian highlands.
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Caffeine Content: Arabica beans contain approximately half the caffeine of Robusta beans. Lower caffeine results in a smoother taste and may contribute to less bitter coffee.
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Acidity Levels: Arabica medium roast coffee has higher acidity levels. This characteristic provides a crisp, clean flavor, enhancing the complexity of the coffee.
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Aroma: Arabica beans are known for their aromatic qualities. They emit a fragrant scent with hints of sweetness and fresh notes, which distinguishes them from Robusta, which tends to have a more earthy aroma.
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Bean Size and Shape: Arabica beans are generally larger and more oval in shape compared to the rounder Robusta beans. This size difference can affect the roasting process and flavor extraction.
The flavor profile of Arabica medium roast coffee beans offers a balanced experience that many coffee drinkers prefer, while their growing conditions influence their overall quality and availability.
How Do Flavor Profiles of Seattle’s Best Brands Compare?
Seattle’s best coffee brands offer a variety of flavor profiles that can be compared based on different attributes such as taste notes, acidity, body, and roast level. Below is a comparison of several popular brands:
| Brand | Taste Notes | Acidity | Body | Roast Level | Origin | Brewing Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starbucks | Nutty, Chocolatey | Medium | Full | Dark | Latin America | Drip |
| Peet’s Coffee | Fruity, Spicy | Low | Medium | Medium-Dark | Various | French Press |
| Tully’s Coffee | Creamy, Sweet | Medium | Medium | Medium | Colombia | Pour Over |
| Victrola Coffee Roasters | Floral, Bright | High | Light | Light | Ethiopia | Aeropress |
| Blue Bottle Coffee | Citrusy, Smooth | High | Medium | Medium | Various | Pour Over |
What Are the Advantages of Choosing Whole Coffee Beans Over Ground Options?
The advantages of choosing whole coffee beans over ground options include superior freshness, enhanced flavor, longer shelf life, and customization in grinding.
- Superior freshness
- Enhanced flavor
- Longer shelf life
- Customization in grinding
Choosing whole coffee beans offers superior freshness. Whole beans maintain their oils and flavors better than ground coffee. When coffee is ground, it has a larger surface area that accelerates oxidation. This leads to a loss of flavor compounds over time. A study by the University of California, Davis, found that ground coffee could lose up to 60% of its flavor within 15 minutes of grinding.
Enhanced flavor is another significant advantage of whole coffee beans. Coffee aficionados argue that grinding beans immediately before brewing releases the essential oils, resulting in a richer and more aromatic cup. For example, coffee brands like Stumptown and Blue Bottle emphasize the flavor difference when brewing from freshly ground beans compared to pre-ground options.
Whole coffee beans also have a longer shelf life compared to ground coffee. Properly stored whole beans can last up to two weeks without significant flavor loss. In contrast, ground coffee can become stale within just a few days. The Coffee Research Institute highlights that whole beans retain their quality for longer due to their less exposed surface area.
Customization in grinding allows consumers to tailor the grind size to their brewing method. For instance, espresso requires a fine grind, while a French press needs a coarse grind. Whole coffee beans enable coffee drinkers to achieve the ideal grind size that meets their preferences, as noted by coffee expert James Hoffmann in his book “The World Atlas of Coffee.” This flexibility contributes to a personalized coffee experience that ground options cannot typically provide.
How Does Freshness Impact the Taste of Coffee?
Freshness significantly impacts the taste of coffee. Fresh coffee beans contain essential oils and compounds that contribute to flavor. As beans age, they lose these oils, leading to a decrease in taste quality.
Roasted coffee beans start losing freshness within days. After roasting, they release carbon dioxide, which can enhance flavor. However, once this process slows, the coffee becomes stale. This staleness often results in flat, dull flavors.
Brewing coffee with fresh beans leads to a richer aroma and vibrant taste. Fresh coffee produces more complex flavors, such as fruity, nutty, or chocolatey notes. In contrast, old coffee lacks depth and can even taste bitter.
Proper storage also affects freshness. Coffee should be stored in an airtight container away from light, heat, and moisture. This helps maintain the freshness for longer periods.
In summary, freshness plays a crucial role in enhancing the taste of coffee by preserving essential oils, promoting complex flavors, and minimizing staleness.
What Should You Consider When Purchasing Ground Coffee Options from Seattle?
When purchasing ground coffee options from Seattle, consider the following factors:
- Coffee origin
- Roast level
- Flavor profile
- Freshness
- Certifications
- Brand reputation
- Price
Each of these factors can significantly influence your coffee experience.
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Coffee Origin: Coffee origin refers to the geographical location where the coffee beans are grown. Different regions produce beans with unique flavor characteristics. For example, Colombian beans often offer a smooth, mild taste, while Ethiopian beans can exhibit fruity and floral notes. A study by the Specialty Coffee Association (2019) highlights that awareness of origin impacts consumers’ purchasing choices.
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Roast Level: Roast level indicates how long and at what temperature the coffee beans are roasted. Light roasts are often more acidic and retain more original bean qualities, while dark roasts provide bolder, richer flavors with decreased acidity. According to research from the University of California, Davis (2021), consumer preference tends to vary across demographics regarding roast levels, impacting purchasing decisions.
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Flavor Profile: Flavor profile encompasses the distinct taste characteristics of coffee, which can include notes of chocolate, nuts, fruits, or spices. Understanding your personal preferences can enhance your coffee experience. A survey by the Coffee Research Institute (2020) indicates that 78% of coffee drinkers choose brands based on preferred flavor profiles.
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Freshness: Freshness of coffee affects taste quality. Coffee should ideally be consumed within weeks of roasting for the best flavor. According to the National Coffee Association (2022), coffee loses its optimal flavor within a month of roasting due to oxidation. Therefore, purchasing from local roasters can help ensure freshness.
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Certifications: Certifications such as Fair Trade or Organic can guide ethical purchasing decisions. Fair Trade ensures that farmers receive fair wages, while Organic indicates beans grown without synthetic pesticides. The Fair Trade Federation (2021) provides data showing that consumers increasingly prioritize these certifications in their buying behavior.
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Brand Reputation: Brand reputation can reflect the quality and consistency of coffee products. Established brands may have a more reliable distribution of flavors and quality. A consumer study conducted by Mintel (2020) found that brand reputation plays a critical role in the decision-making process for coffee buyers.
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Price: Price should also influence your coffee choices. Higher prices often correlate with higher quality, but that is not always the case. A study by the Department of Agriculture (2018) indicated various price points can appeal to different consumer segments, emphasizing the need to understand what you’re willing to spend based on the previously mentioned factors.
How Can You Brew the Perfect Cup with Seattle’s Best Coffee Beans?
To brew the perfect cup using Seattle’s Best Coffee beans, focus on the coffee grind size, water temperature, brew time, and coffee-to-water ratio.
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Coffee grind size: The grind size affects extraction. A medium grind is ideal for most brewing methods. Coarser grounds work well for French press, while finer grounds suit espresso machines. According to the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA, 2018), the correct grind size contributes to balanced flavor extraction.
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Water temperature: Use water heated to between 195°F and 205°F. This range optimizes flavor extraction without scorching the coffee. Too hot water can lead to bitter flavors, while too cool water may cause weak extraction. The SCA recommends using a thermometer for accuracy when brewing.
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Brew time: The duration of brewing affects taste extraction. For drip coffee, a brew time of 5 to 6 minutes is recommended. Espresso should brew in 25 to 30 seconds. The SCA outlines that appropriate brew times enhance the coffee’s flavor profile.
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Coffee-to-water ratio: A standard ratio is 1:15, meaning one part coffee to 15 parts water. For a strong flavor, adjust the ratio to 1:12. The SCA suggests experimenting with these ratios to achieve the desired strength and flavor balance.
By focusing on these aspects, you can ensure a rich and flavorful cup of Seattle’s Best Coffee.
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