The best coffee

Real Simple Magazine

By Suzanne Rust
Images byBob Hiemstra

Whether you favor light, medium, or dark roast, these winners are all buzz-worthy.

Light Roasts, Best Ground



Allegro Coffee Organic Breakfast Blend
Related: Cool Mugs for Hot Drinks

Grown without pesticides, herbicides, or chemical fertilizers, this fragrant mix has "delicious hints of blackberry," said a tester. "It wakes up your mouth," added Jonathan Rubinstein, owner of the Joe cafés, in New York City.

To buy: $11 for 12 ounces.





Light Roasts, Best Whole Bean



Newman's Own Organics Nell's Breakfast Blend
Related: Keeping Tabs on Your Caffeine Intake

This delicious concoction "is smooth, mild, bright, and refreshing," said Rubinstein. Said a fan: "Love the citrus tang."

To buy: $9 for 10 ounces.








Medium Roasts, Best Ground



The Organic Coffee Company Zen Blend
Related: Organic Foods That Are Worth the Money

"I adore the aroma," said a tester of the chocolate and nut notes. "And it's pleasant to drink from start to finish." Bonus: The company helps fund schools for the growers' kids.

To buy: $9 for 12 ounces.






Medium Roasts, Best Whole Bean



Tully's Coffee House Blend
Related: The Best Coffeemakers

Processing in small batches in a vintage cast-iron roaster renders these beans, in the words of one coffee lover, "buttery and silky, with delicate sweet tones."

To buy: $11 for 10 ounces.






Dark Roasts, Best Ground



Peet's Coffee Major Dickason's Blend
Related: Standout Hot Chocolate

The "earthy, robust punch" of this full-bodied coffee impressed several testers, who went back for seconds. Said one, "It's strong but smooth."

To buy: $11.50 for 12 ounces.





Dark Roasts, Best Whole Bean...The Best Coffee, continued

Don't Miss:
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Fast, Healthy Breakfast Ideas
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